Questions to ask your wedding venue

• Is our date free, and can you hold it while we decide? Ask how long a hold lasts, whether it costs anything, and what happens if someone else asks for the same date.
• What is the seated capacity for our layout? A standing capacity is not a dining capacity. Ask for the number with round tables, a stage and a dance floor in place.
• Can we see the hall set up for a wedding like ours? Visiting during a live event, with the venue's permission, shows you the flow, the noise and the queues.
• Are there other events in the building on the same day? Shared car parks, corridors and toilets change the feel of a day.

• Can we bring our own caterer, or must we use yours? Some halls insist on in-house catering or an approved list, and some charge for outside caterers. This one question can decide your whole budget.
• Can our caterer use your kitchen, and is there a charge? Ask about kitchen size, equipment and loading access.
• Which decorators have worked here, and what are the decor rules? Ask about fixings, stage size, ceiling drapes, flowers and whether the venue has its own decor package.
• What are your rules on dhol, live music, fireworks, confetti and candles? A baraat with dhol needs space and permission. Ask about noise limits and outdoor arrivals.
• Is alcohol allowed, served or banned? Some families need a dry venue; others do not. Ask about the licence either way.

• What time can our suppliers get in, and when must everyone be out? Decorators may need hours to build a stage. A strict curfew can cut the evening short.
• How much parking is there, and is there overflow? Large guest lists bring a lot of cars. Ask about nearby parking and drop-off points.
• Is there step-free access and accessible toilets? Grandparents and guests with mobility needs should be able to move around easily.
• Is there a private room for the bride, for prayer or for getting ready? Many families need a quiet room for prayer, for the nikkah or for the bride before her entrance.

• Can a legal marriage take place here? In England and Wales a civil ceremony can take place at a register office or a venue approved by the local council, with a registrar present. A religious wedding can take place at a registered religious building with an authorised person. Ask which, if either, applies here.
• If not, where will the legal part happen? Many families hold a nikkah, anand karaj or pheras at one place and register the marriage separately. Plan it early, because notice has to be given in advance. Check the GOV.UK guidance for your situation.

• What exactly does the hire fee include? Tables, chairs, linen, stage, staff, security, cleaning, heating and a venue manager can each be included or extra.
• Is VAT included, and are there any extra charges? Ask for the total you will actually pay, including service charges, corkage or late-finish fees.
• What deposit do you need, and when are the other payments due? Get every amount and date in writing.
• What happens if we cancel or move the date, or if you cancel? What a business keeps should reflect its real loss. See the deposit and booking checklist for general information.
• What insurance do you hold, and what do our suppliers need? Venues often ask caterers and decorators for public liability certificates.

You can browse vendors and message them in the Nodus app today, with each conversation in its own thread. Venue listings in your city will grow as vendors join, and date search and quotes in writing are coming. When you book, you pay a deposit to confirm, then the balance before your event, each paid directly to your vendor through Stripe.