It’s one of the most important choices of your wedding day, get in the know and find out all the right things to ask before, during, and after your venue viewing...

Planning a wedding is a big responsibility, with so many individual aspects that need to be taken into account, and happy couples soon learn what a huge task it can be to bring their big day to life when they get into the nitty-gritty of planning and preparation.

One of the biggest parts of the process is finding a venue, and it's also one of the true 'make or break' factors that can have a real impact on how well the wedding actually goes.

Your venue will be your setting, your surroundings, the backdrop for your photos, and the stage on which you and your partner will begin your new life together.

It needs to be just right, so there's no sense in rushing in and picking the first one you find. Instead, take your time and make sure to ask some key questions to find out as much as you can before signing on the dotted line and agreeing to anything.

Is the date available. One of the more obvious questions, it's vital to make sure your venue is actually open when your wedding is planned. 

What can we move and what needs to stay in place.  Venues will have their own rules regarding how you can and can't adjust the space to suit your needs.

Rules regarding furnishings and decoration. Bringing in your own on-theme furniture and decor can be essential to bringing your big day to life, so you need to know the venue's views on this.

What does the fee include. It's important to get a clear view of what you're paying for and how much you'll need to pay.

How much are extra hours. Your celebration might go a little longer than planned, so it's worth knowing about fees for this.

Any discounts. Venues may offer discounts for certain dates or times of the year.

Do you have your own caterers. Some venues may have their own catering staff while others will want you to bring your own.

Clean-up. Certain venues will expect you to do the clean-up after your event while others will help with this.

Parking arrangements. If you've got 100+ guests coming, you'll need to make sure they can all park safely.

Candles, confetti, fireworks. It's important to ask about these kinds of things if you plan on using them, as some venues may prohibit open flames or messy confetti.

Back-up plan. Some venues may offer a Plan B in case it rains. It's always wise to have a back-up plan.

Creating the perfect atmosphere. Booking your wedding venue will arguably be the biggest decision you make, but its your local suppliers bringing the theme, decor and styling together that will inevitably bring your dream day to life - creating the perfect atmosphere and feel, regardless of the venue. 

Planning a destination wedding. Venues will have their own rules regarding how you can and can't adjust the space to suit your needs. Bringing in your own on-theme furniture and decor can be essential to bringing your big day to life, so you need to know the venue's views on this.