So, you think you’ve found the perfect place for your vow renewal? Before you hand over a deposit or start pinning table layouts, there are some make-or-break questions you need to ask. Every vow renewal venue has its quirks—some charming, some frustrating—and knowing them ahead of time could save you stress, money, and wedding-day headaches.

This guide covers everything you need to ask—whether you’re planning an elegant ballroom celebration, a breezy beach ceremony, or a backyard bash.

Rate The Space

• Is the space large enough for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception?
• How many rooms are available—and are you limited to using just one?
• What’s the shape of each room? (Long and narrow rooms can mess with table layouts.)
• Are there any pillars or weird angles that could block views?
• Is there flow between rooms or areas for mingling?
• What’s the bathroom situation? (You’ll want 1 per 25 guests!)
• Is there ample parking (1 space per 2 guests is ideal)? Is there overflow parking?

All About The Money

• What’s the base cost, and how many hours does it cover?
• How much is overtime, and what’s the cutoff?
• Are there discounted rates for weekdays or off-season dates?
• What’s included? (Tables, chairs, linens, sound system, etc.)
• Are there extra fees for setup, breakdown, cleaning, cake cutting, security, or staff?
• How much is the deposit, and is it refundable if you cancel?
• Is there a rescheduling fee?

On The Clock

• What are the available hours for your event?
• Are other events scheduled the same day?
• Can multiple events happen at the same time in different rooms?
• How long is the ceremony slot, and do you have buffer time for setup/cleanup?

The Great Outdoors

• Is there an outdoor option for the ceremony or reception?
• What about lighting and electrical access outside?
• Is the outdoor space buggy or prone to weather problems? Who handles pest control?
• When is the lawn mowed and watered?
• What’s the rain plan? (Tent? Indoor backup? Costs?)
• Can you use items like bubbles, petals, rice, butterflies, doves?
• Are there decor restrictions (candles, nails, string lights, etc.)?

Eat, Drink & Be Merry

• Does the venue require you to use specific caterers or bartenders?
• Can you bring in your own food or alcohol?
• What’s the policy on kegs, signature cocktails, and champagne toasts?
• Is there a corkage fee for wine and bubbly?
• What are the cake cutting rules if you use an outside bakery?
• What kitchen facilities are on-site? (Ice machine? Coffee pots? Fridge?)
• Can your caterer use the onsite equipment? Is there a fee?

Lights, Camera, Action

• Are there volume limits for music—inside and out?
• Can live bands or DJs play the music you want?
• What’s the curfew or music cutoff time?
• Are microphones or speakers provided?
• Can you use the venue’s piano or organ? What’s the cost?
• Any photography or videography restrictions?

Miscellaneous Must-Knows

• Who handles cleanup?
• Is valet service or coat check available—and at what cost?
• Are there private dressing rooms? Do they lock?
• Can you decorate the ceremony site? What are the rules?
• Are candles allowed?
• Can you incorporate personal vows or special elements in the ceremony?

Pro Tip:

Bring this list with you on vow renewal venue tours—or better yet, print a copy for each venue you’re considering and make notes as you go.

When you’re choosing the perfect space to say “I do… again,” it’s not just about the view—it’s about the fine print.