What questions to ask at reception hall?

We are going to look at some RH's this weekend, and I'm wondering what are the typical questions to ask when the RH gives you a price. I would imagine we would ask what type of/how much liquor is included, how much is the ceremony, is valet parking included, etc. But what else should we be asking that will effect the overall PP price? If we must use their catering services, do we still have a lot of menu choices that can effect the price?

All help is appreciated.

Hi I am actually going this weekend as well to look at halls. My FH found this questionare online, I hope this helps you :)

Hall:
Date Visited:
Contact:
Phone #:


Dates Available:


Price per person – does this include tax and gratuity:


Minimum number of guests for room:

Are kids half price…included in minimum?
Vendors included in minimum?

Capacity:


Number of Concurrent Events – are any spaces shared?:


How long will the cocktail hr and the entire party be?

Table Size (number) / Table Shape:

Maximum Number of Tables for room:


Ratio of Guests/Servers:

Where is the cocktail hr held?:

How early can bridal party arrive?

Bridal Suite size & location:

Liquor – top shelf?


Number of Bars and Bartenders:


Will there be coatroom, bathroom and parking attendants...do they cost extra


Bridal attendant included?


Valet – included or additional?


Can we use others vendors?


Any fee/requirements for outside vendors?


When can vendors arrive to set up?


Photography/Florist/Hotel/Church – recommendations?

Number of Entrée Options:


When is final menu picked?


Wedding Cake included - Any limitations on flavors/fillings??

Cake cutting charge for outside cakes? If so ask that it be reduced or eliminated

Can we have a tasting?


Do you provide any type of shuttle service


Can we see photos of hall in different seasons (get copies for file)


Where can we take pictures of the grounds in March?


Any decorations included?

Linen colors:

Gratuity/service charge – is it a set fee? Is it distributed amongst all of the workers?

grat/Service charge % (number):

Is grat/service charge taxed:


Timing for final head count:

Direction cards provided? (Get a copy for file)

Deposit amount:
Method of payment – payment schedule and when is final payment due?

Can we upgrade if under minimum (no wasted dinners) i.e., cordials or upgrade entrees?

Cancellation and refund policy:

Any renovations planned?
-What/When?
- Expected completion date?

ask about

1) linens (choice of colors)
2) do you get votive candles for the tables (cocktail hour and reception)
3) if you have the ceremony there how much does their officiant charge
4) Plate charge if you don't use their house vendors
5) How much for children?
6) is champagne toast included or extra?
7) wine on all tables?
8) does the waitstaff take drink orders or do your guests have to go to the bar?

I hope that helps. If I think of more I will let you know.

Thanks for the replies. I actually found these two helpful links after posting as well:

http://www.liweddings.com/chat/topic.aspx?ID=200095

http://www.liweddings.com/chat/topic.aspx?ID=280118