Finding the perfect wedding venue is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. If you’re getting married at Westwood, you’re already off to a beautiful start. With its scenic charm and elegant spaces, Westwood offers no shortage of stunning spaces to celebrate. But before you book the place where your forever begins, it’s important to ask the right questions. These 10 essential questions will help you make the most informed (and stress-free) decisions for your wedding.
Westwood’s Champagne Before Drywall | Captured by The Lang Co
1.
Is our preferred date available?
Before falling in love with a venue, make sure your ideal date or at least your season/month has availability that works for you. Popular venues often book up over a year in advance, especially on weekends. At Westwood, we host beautiful weddings on every day of the week, every month of the year, and we highly recommend staying open-minded and flexible when it comes to choosing your date!
2.
What is the total cost, and what’s included?
Understanding the total cost upfront is crucial to staying within your wedding budget. Be sure to ask the venue for a detailed breakdown of all fees, including rental charges, taxes, service fees, and included gratuities. Clarify what’s included in the price – such as tables, chairs, linens, lighting, sound equipment, and parking, as well as what might come at an extra cost. This transparency helps prevent unexpected expenses later and lets you compare venues more accurately.
3.
What is the venue’s capacity?
Knowing the venue’s capacity is key to making sure it comfortably fits your guest list and complies with safety regulations. Ask for both seated and standing capacities, especially if you plan to have a dance floor, buffet, or lounge area. Getting clarity here helps avoid surprises and ensures your guests have enough room to celebrate comfortably.
4.
What’s the backup plan for bad weather?
If you’re planning any part of your wedding outdoors, having a solid backup plan is essential. Ask the venue what options are available in case of rain, extreme heat, wind, or other unpredictable weather. Do they offer an indoor alternative or tented area, and how quickly can the switch be made if needed? Knowing the contingency plan in advance can ease stress and helps you stay flexible. A venue with a well-thought out weather backup shows they’re experienced and prepared for anything the day might bring.
Westwood’s second Booked Couples Mixer | Captured by RSC Imagery
5.
Do you have a list of preferred or required vendors?
One of the best-kept secrets to a seamless Westwood event? Our venue’s carefully curated preferred vendor list. These aren’t just any vendors, they’re tried-and-true professionals who know the space, understand the flow, and consistently deliver incredible service. From floral designers who can transform any space into something out of a dream, to caterers who craft unforgettable menus, Westwood’s vendor partners are as passionate about your day as you are. Working with them means less guesswork, smoother coordination, and more time for you to actually enjoy the celebration.
6.
Is there on-site parking, and is it free?
Stress-free arrival starts with parking. One of the perks guests and planners love about Westwood? The convenience of free on-site parking. No need to circle the block or stress about city meters- Westwood offers a spacious private parking lot just steps from the venue.
7.
What’s the setup and breakdown policy?
At Westwood, seamless transitions are part of the experience and that’s thanks to our amazing event flip team. Whether it’s transforming a ceremony space into a dreamy reception setup or resetting an area between cocktail hour and dinner, our crew works with precision, speed, and a whole lot of heart.
These behind-the-scenes pros are masters at turning spaces quickly and beautifully, all while keeping the flow of your event uninterrupted. Guests often don’t even notice the transformation just the wow factor that follows.
8.
Are there private suites or getting-ready areas on-site?
Having a designated space to get ready can make a world of difference on your wedding day. These spaces provide a comfortable, stress-free environment for hair, makeup, and those final touches before walking down the aisle. A well designed private suite is also a great place to relax, share a quiet moment, and take photos before the festivities begin. Be sure to inquire about the size of the getting ready spaces, amenities, and how early you’ll have access on the big day.
Images Captured by Lauren Peterson Photography & The Lang Co
9.
Are there accommodations nearby for guests?
If you’re inviting out-of-town guests or hosting a destination wedding, nearby accommodations are a must. Ask the venue if there are hotels, inns, or short-term rentals close by, and whether they have any partnerships or discounted rates for wedding parties. It’s helpful to know travel times, transportation options, and availability – especially during peak seasons.
10.
Are there separate spaces for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception?
Having distinct spaces for each part of your celebration can help the day flow smoothly and keep guests engaged. Ask whether the venue offers separate areas for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, or if the same space will be flipped between events. Separate spaces not only minimize downtime and confusion but also allow you to create different moods and aesthetics for each part of the day. If transitions are required, be sure to ask how the venue handles timing and setup logistics behind the scenes.
