The Ultimate Wedding Venue Tour Checklist: What to Ask, See & Know
image by Rhianon Brown Photography
Venue Tour Checklist: Questions to Ask & Details to Watch For
Bring this list with you (and don’t be shy about taking notes or snapping pics—we’ve seen couples roll in with spreadsheets and color-coded clipboards, and we support that energy). A good venue should be ready to answer every single one.
THE SPACE ITSELF
What’s the maximum guest capacity?
(230. Yes, for real. We don’t blink at big families or big energy.)
Is the ceremony space included, or a separate add-on?
(All-inclusive, darling. Your ceremony and reception don’t need to live separate lives.)
Is the reception space flipped or set up separately?
(Depends on your package—some flip, some don’t. We adapt like pros.)
What does the venue look like during different times of day?
(Clean, industrial, glowy, and borderline spiritual. Like, angels-could-descend-here level lighting.)
How’s the lighting (both natural and after dark)?
(Magical. Kansas City sun knows how to show off natural light in our space.)
Are there any restrictions on decor, florals, or candles?
(Enclosed candles, yes. No glitter. No confetti. We’re fun—but we’re not “scraping rhinestones out of the concrete” fun.)
AVAILABILITY & BOOKING
How far in advance do we need to book?
(As far as you can—our calendar fills faster than a champagne tower in July.)
How long do we get access to the venue on event day?
(It depends on the package that fits you best. We’re not here to waste your time—or your money.)
Is there a separate space for the couple to get ready?
(Absolutely. You get a bridal suite and a groom’s loft. Equal glam, different vibes.)
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Are tables, chairs, and linens included?
(That’s a yes from us. And they don’t look like they came from a high school gym.)
What about a bar, glassware, or bartenders?
(Included. Yes. You’re welcome.)
Is there a prep kitchen or catering space?
(Also yes. Your caterer won’t be crying in a parking lot.)
Do you have a preferred vendor list, and are we required to use it?
(We have an open vendor policy. You choose the dream team—we provide the space for them to make magic.)
SUPPORT & STAFF
Do you provide a venue manager or day-of coordinator?
(We always include a venue manager. Day-of coordination? Also available—because timelines don’t run themselves.)
Will there be staff on-site during the event?
(Yup. We don’t ghost you after the booking.)
Who handles setup and teardown?
(We do. Not your maid of honor. Not your dad. Not your future spouse. Us.)
FEES & FINE PRINT
What’s the rental fee and what does it include?
(Peep the details at thedelawarekc.com —we’re transparent, not mysterious.)
What’s the deposit and payment schedule?
(Half the base rental is required to lock it in.)
Are there additional fees for overtime, cleaning, or security?
(Cleaning is included. Overtime and security are available to purchase if you know your crowd’s… rowdy.)
What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
(We’ll walk you through it. We’re clear, fair, and not trying to ruin your life.)
Pro Tip: Ask These Too
Can we leave personal items overnight?
(Sometimes, yes—if it doesn’t include an entire florist’s truck or 42 cases of LaCroix.)
What’s the backup plan for weather if part of the event is outdoors?
(Spoiler: our space is indoors. Kansas City can rain sideways and you’ll still be glowing. Our outdoor patio is nice when the weather is).
Where do guests park, and is there valet or shuttle access?
(Private lot? Check. Huge city lot across the street? Check. Ample street parking? You guessed it.)
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
(Yes—we’re ADA accessible and emotionally accessible, too.)
xx,
The Delaware Wedding X Event Space Team