We understand that the whole process of planning a wedding can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to deciding on a venue. There’s so much that goes into planning your special day that some questions may slip your mind when you are touring different venues. We want to make sure that you’re prepared and well-versed before you go all in. Read on to see our MUST ASK questions before you book your Lake Tahoe wedding venue!
- What dates are available in the month I’m considering?
First, and this may be the most obvious, you should find out the available dates that the venue has. If you were looking at getting married during a certain month and the venue does not have any availability, maybe that venue isn’t the one for you! It might also be a good idea to ask when’s the best season to get married at their Lake Tahoe location. Some venues may be better for different seasons, so make sure to keep that in mind when picking a date at your wedding venue! - How many people can this Lake Tahoe location accommodate?
Finding out how many people the location can accommodate is important because you have to know how many guests to invite. If you’re looking to plan a larger wedding, you need to make sure there is enough space for your guests. On the other hand, if you plan on hosting a smaller wedding, you can choose a smaller venue. While you don’t need to have your guest list finalized before booking you should have an idea of the size of your wedding before you go looking for venues! - How many hours does the rental fee include, and is there an overtime fee if I stay longer?
Be sure to ask the duration of the rental fee to see if it will fit the hours you were thinking of for your wedding day. Check with venue on the county noise ordinances and when music has to be off. We know your guests will want to enjoy their time in Lake Tahoe, so it’s smart to ask if there is an overtime fee or when music has to be off for the night so you can plan accordingly! That way you’ll know that if there’s wiggle room on when your last dance needs to happen. - How much is the deposit, when is it due, and is it refundable?
Money is a big factor when it comes to venues, so be sure to get the exact amount of the deposit, the date it’s due, and if there is a refund policy. You’ll want to write the amount and due date down so you’re on time with that payment. Although the uncertainty of 2020, event cancellations, and quarantines seem to be behind us, it’s always good to really understand the refund policy before you decide to book as well. - What kinds of services do you offer?
Lake Tahoe wedding venues offer all different types of services from food and parking to drinks and set-up. Find out the list of services each venue offers and see which packages and amenities are most attractive to you! Some venues offer more services than others, so compare and contrast to see which one best suits your needs. - What stunning Lake Tahoe views do you offer?
THE most important question, what views does this venue offer? Lake Tahoe is known for having absolutely stunning views, so be sure to take advantage of that attribute. Whether you’re looking for a magical Tahoe sunset or stunning mountains for a backdrop, make sure that the venue offers plenty of beautiful photo opportunities. Your gorgeous photos will thank us later! - What are the rates for different days of the week?
Again, money plays a big role in choosing a venue. Many venues will charge more for Saturday weddings and less for Friday and Sunday weddings, so it’s really up to you and your partner on what you choose to decide. Remember to base your choices on what both of you want and not as much what you think your guests would prefer. Your wedding day is all about you two, and your guests will be thrilled to be attending a Lake Tahoe wedding, no matter when the ceremony is! - Is there space at the resort and nearby hotels for out-of-town Lake Tahoe guests to stay?
Keeping your guests in mind, it’s important for there is space at the resort you secure or hotels nearby for those out-of-town guests. This way, guests can choose to spend the weekend in Lake Tahoe not only celebrating your marriage but also exploring what this great city has to offer. If your guests are happy and staying busy, you will be too! - Do you have a list of recommended Lake Tahoe wedding vendors?
Many Lake Tahoe wedding venues recommend great local wedding vendors to the soon-to-be-married couple to make your choice of caterers, music, transportation, etc. easier and less stressful. This can be very helpful and will guide you to decisions much faster with the slim selection. Don’t be afraid to go off of the list of recommendations if the venue allows, but the venues usually have a pretty good idea of the best vendors in the area. - What is the backup plan for rain or inclement weather?
Backup plans are crucial for Lake Tahoe weddings as many ceremonies will take place outside. Having the perfect Tahoe background for your wedding is ideal, but when the weather decides not to cooperate, there must be a Plan B. Knowing that your venue has a good backup plan takes some weight off of your shoulders on your big day. Let the venue staff worry about the weather while you solely focus on getting married! - What other events are going on at the venue on the same day?
Some larger venues will have multiple events happening on the same date and time, so it is crucial to find out if there are other events scheduled for your planned wedding date. In many locations, more than one event shouldn’t be a problem, but you’ll want to assess the venue space to ensure that your wedding guests won’t be confused about where to go or what to attend. - Do you have signage or other aids to direct my guests to my event?
With larger venues, you’ll want to make sure that the venue has signs or guides to point your guests in the right direction to your ceremony and/or reception. The last thing you’ll want to be worrying about is if any of your guests are lost! Knowing that there are simple directions and signs to your right location eases the mind of both you and your guests. - What are your limitations on decor?
Be sure to ask if there are any limitations for certain decorations. Some venues can be sticklers about what you can and cannot hang or put out, so just be sure that the rules are clear before you book. The last thing you want on your wedding day is the event planner telling you that you can’t hang up your favorite decor elements! - Is there parking on-site and if so, is it complimentary? If not, where will my guests park?
Parking can be a big deal for some guests, so know the parking situation and relay the information to your guests before they arrive. You wouldn’t want them to be surprised if they have to pay for parking or confused about where they should park. Notifying your guests with clear information will make arrival easier and smoother for everyone! - How is alcohol priced, and is there a bar minimum?
If you plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, learn how the venue prices their alcohol as every venue can be different. Also find out if there is a bar minimum, to ensure that you won’t be paying too much if your guests are not big on consuming alcohol. Every wedding is different, so just decide what will be best for you, your family and your friends!
Remember, this is by no means an exhaustive list yet it gives you a starting point for some questions you should be asking. Be sure to do your research and maybe even consider these 8 Creative Wedding Ceremony Ideas to Symbolize Commitment at your chosen venue. Don’t forget to breathe, relax and smile because even though there’s a lot to it, the planning of your wedding should be an enjoyable experience! Grab your partner’s hand and take the next step of deciding on a perfect wedding venue for your special day!
