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Booking a Venue? Don’t Sign Until You Ask These 10 Questions

 

By: Sharee Murphy

Master Planner, Plan & Pop Events

 

You’ve toured the space, the lighting is perfect, and the date you want is open. It feels like a dream come true. But before you pull out your pen and sign that contract, pause for a moment.

Because here’s the truth: venues don’t always tell you everything up front. Hidden fees, strict rules, and unexpected limitations can pop up after you’ve already paid your deposit — and by then, it’s too late to walk away without losing money.

 

That’s why knowing the right questions to ask before you book can save you stress, money, and regret.

 

Why Questions Matter

When you’re in the excitement of planning your wedding or event, it’s easy to focus on the aesthetics — the pretty chandeliers, the outdoor garden, the Instagram-worthy backdrops. But the fine print is where the real story lies.

 

Asking the right questions helps you:

• Avoid surprise charges
• Understand exactly what’s included
• Confirm flexibility with vendors and décor
• Protect your event timeline and guest experience

 

Your Must-Have Tool: The Venue Questions Checklist

To make things easy, we’ve created a free, printable checklist with the 10 essential questions you need to ask before you sign a venue contract.

This isn’t just a list of “nice-to-knows” — these are the deal-breaker questions that can help you decide if a venue is truly the right fit.

✅ Can I bring outside caterers?
✅ Is the deposit refundable?
✅ Are there any hidden fees?
…and more.

 

How to Use the Checklist

• Bring the checklist with you (on paper or on your phone).
• Write down the answers in real time so you can compare venues side-by-side.
• Use it as leverage when negotiating your contract.

📥 Click here to view the free Venue Questions Checklist

 

Pro Tip from Your Planner

If a venue hesitates to answer a question clearly or tries to avoid it altogether, that’s a red flag. You deserve transparency from the very beginning.

 

And if you want a professional by your side who knows exactly what to ask (and how to read between the lines), Plan & Pop Events can help. From venue selection to day-of execution, we make sure every detail is handled so you can focus on celebrating.

 

💌 Need help finding and booking the perfect venue?
Let’s talk through your options and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

📞 (804) 465-2324
📧 [email protected]