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10 Questions to ask at your venue show-around

Lauren Withers, Venue Manager
Author

Lauren Withers

Venue Manager

Date
CategoryPlanning Tips

Did you know that the period between Christmas & Valentines is very well known in the wedding industry as “engagement season”. This is because around 35% of all couples get engaged every year across these dates! That means there is a whole group of newly engaged couples who are thinking ‘what now?!’. Or ‘how do I start searching for my dream Cornish wedding venue’?

To make the most out of your venue viewings, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 questions you should ask during your show around. These questions will not only help you make an informed decision but also ensure that you don’t encounter any hidden surprises between choosing your wedding venue and your big day.

1. What Dates are Available?

Before going to see any venue, if you have any dates in mind, check with the venue their availability around that time. Since Cornish wedding venues can book up quickly, especially during peak seasons, make sure your preferred date aligns with the venue’s availability.

Did you know that September and June are the most popular dates? If these are your dream months, you might need to start your search a little earlier than you expected!

2. What’s Included in the Venue Package?

Clarify the details of the wedding package offered by the venue. This includes not only the cost but also the inclusions, such as catering, cake cutting and serving, timings, glassware, decor, and any additional services provided.

Find out what costs extra, for example are there any changes for room turnaround, extra wedding meetings, evening guests, setup costs etc. Understanding the package will help you budget effectively and avoid any hidden surprises.

P.S. We don’t charge for any of the above, everything is included in our packages and we even include lawn games to entertain your guests.

Exterior photo of a Cottage
Exterior photo of the Honeymoon Cabin
Exterior photo of a Shepherd Hut

3. Are There Accommodation Options?

If you have guests travelling from afar, or you just want to get everyone together over multiple days, enquire about on-site or nearby accommodation options. This ensures the convenience and comfort of your guests on the big day. Usually, the costs can be provided separately so you can pass these on to your guests should you wish.

P.S. We can sleep 27 in our cottages, 2 in our honeymoon cabin, 6 in our yurts, and hundreds in our camping field! Click here to see some photos of the beautifully renovated cottages!

4. What is the Capacity of the Venue?

Ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list. Ask about both indoor and outdoor spaces, and ceremony vs wedding breakfast, especially if you plan on having different parts of your celebration in different areas.

P.S. We can hold 200 seated for the wedding breakfast and 300 seated for the ceremony and/or standing.

Ceremony on the lower terrace
A bride walking down the aisle

5. What are the Catering Options?

Aside from the venue, the catering is the next biggest part of your day. Discuss catering choices and menu options available, understanding how you can personalise the menus. Many Cornish wedding venues pride themselves on locally sourced, fresh produce, so take advantage of the opportunity to create a bespoke menu that reflects this.

P.S. We have 8 wonderful Cornish caterers we work with for your wedding breakfast who all offer a range of food styles and suit all budgets – check them out here! You are also welcome to bring in any evening caterer provided they don’t require use of the kitchen.

Photo of a tablescape
Bride and Groom holding onto horses and a pony
Indoor table decoration

6. Can We Customise the Space?

Ask about the flexibility to personalise the venue to match your vision. Whether it’s adding decor, adjusting seating arrangements, or incorporating specific themes, understanding the options will make your wedding uniquely yours.

P.S. We are here to help you realise your vision, whether it’s a black and gold colour theme, a DIY wedding or a full-blown Harry Potter theme, our venue is the perfect space to customise to your own vision. We are here to help bring your Instagram-worthy weddings to reality!

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