Touring a Wedding Venue? Watch Out for These 5 Red Flags
Photography: @justindemutiis
Next to finding a partner, the hardest part of planning a wedding is finding your perfect wedding venue. The location of your wedding sets the tone for the logistics (i.e. the date, budget, guest list, etc.) as well as your overall vibe (rustic, vintage, cottagecore, enchanted forest, to name a few).
However, it’s important to keep an eye out for any potential red flags when choosing your wedding venue. What seems like a minor red flag may turn into a very big red flag down the road. Here are five red flags to look out for when deciding on your wedding venue.
Poor or Lack Of Communication
Easily one of the biggest red flags in a wedding venue is poor or zero communication. Although you may overlook a minor delay in response, little to no communication in the beginning could create chaos down the road. However, if you only notice a slow response time once and are given an explanation, it may not be the end of the world! If you have any concerns, schedule a call with the manager or owner to navigate expectations.
Multiple Bad Reviews
It goes without saying that one bad review is likely an anomaly, multiple bad reviews (especially ones complaining about the same issue) can be a red flag. However, as with any review, they should be taken with a grain of salt. Speak with the venue yourself and if they are rude or disagreeable, definitely take note.
Short Setup Time
A not-so-common red flag when choosing a wedding venue is limited setup time. When selecting and touring a venue, be sure to ask how much time you vendors will have to setup. You want to ensure your vendors have enough time to execute everything and if they are rushed, mistakes can happen. Additionally, you’ll want to find out when the bridal suite will be available. The last thing you need is only half the bridal party ready when the ceremony is set to start!
Emergency Protocols
Thanks to the pandemic, we now know that there are forces outside of anyone’s control. This is especially relevant to the wedding industry. Because of this, it’s imperative you ask your wedding venue how they handle unforeseen circumstances. A venue that does not have rescheduling or cancellation protocols in place is a red flag & could leave you out thousands of dollars and no rescheduled wedding date.
No Backup Plan
Speaking of unforeseen circumstances, weather is another factor when it comes to weddings. And although rain on your wedding day is known as a good omen, it creates a logistical nightmare. An indoor wedding venue doesn’t necessarily have these issues but if you have your heart set on an outdoor wedding venue, having a backup plan in case of weather is extremely important. Any venue without a backup plan is a red flag and while you can hope for the best on your big day, having a backup plan is necessary for an amazing wedding day.
Handling Red Flags
Finding red flags during a venue tour is frustrating, especially if it’s your dream wedding venue. But, not every red flag is a dealbreaker. A red flag can lead to negotiations such as complimentary add-ons or discounts.
If you’re unsure of the difference between a red flag and a dealbreaker, consider your non-negotiables. Minimal parking, for example, might be a red flag but not a deal breaker if transportation is being provided.
To avoid any red flags becoming deal breakers, be upfront and honest with your wedding venue - and wedding planner - on what are your non-negotiables so you can celebrate your big day at your perfect venue.