Top Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Wedding Venue Abroad
A stunning villa in Tuscany. A vineyard in Bordeaux. A cliffside view in Santorini. Destination wedding venues can look like pure magic in photos — but behind the dreamy views, there are details that can make or break your big day.
1. What’s included in the venue fee?
The venue hire price might sound simple, but every location includes (and excludes) different things. Some provide tables, chairs, and lighting; others are literally just “walls and space.”
👉 Always ask: Does the price include furniture, linens, catering, sound system, lighting, or staff?
2. Do you allow outside catering or vendors?
Some venues require you to use their in-house catering, while others allow you to bring your own suppliers (with or without extra fees). This can significantly affect both cost and flexibility.
👉 Ask: Do you have a preferred vendor list? Can we bring our own caterer, photographer, or florist? Is there a corkage fee for wine or champagne?
3. What’s the music and noise policy?
In many European destinations, noise restrictions are strict. Some venues stop music at midnight, while others allow parties until sunrise.
👉 Ask: What time must music end? Are there restrictions on live bands or DJs?
4. Is there a backup plan for bad weather?
Outdoor weddings look magical, but rain, wind, or heatwaves can ruin the day without a Plan B.
👉 Ask: Do you have an indoor alternative or marquee option? What’s the cost if we need it?
5. How many weddings do you host per day/week?
Some venues host multiple weddings back-to-back, which can make you feel rushed or limit setup time.
👉 Ask: Will we have exclusive use of the venue? For how many hours?
6. Are there minimum guest or accommodation requirements?
Some venues require a minimum spend (e.g., food & beverage) or insist that a certain number of rooms be booked.
👉 Ask: Do you have guest minimums or mandatory overnight stays? What’s the maximum guest capacity?
7. What extra fees should we expect?
The headline price is rarely the final price. Couples are often surprised by hidden charges such as:
Cleaning or security fees
Power or generator rentals
Extended hours after midnight
Extra staff for large guest counts
👉 Always ask for a full breakdown of potential additional costs.
8. Is the venue accessible for our guests?
Consider the logistics for elderly relatives, children, or guests flying in from abroad.
👉 Ask: How far is the venue from the nearest airport? Do you provide transport options? Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
9. What are the payment and cancellation terms?
Deposits, balance timelines, and refund policies can vary widely in Europe.
👉 Ask: What’s the deposit? When is the balance due? What happens if we need to cancel or reschedule?
10. Do you provide a venue coordinator?
Some venues have a coordinator who manages logistics on the day, while others simply rent you the space.
👉 Ask: Will there be a venue manager on the day? What do they handle vs. what’s our responsibility?
Common Mistakes Couples Make
Falling in love with photos but not checking contracts.
Assuming prices include catering, décor, or staff.
Forgetting about curfews and sound restrictions.
Not asking about hidden fees until it’s too late.
