The Vibe Check List: Questions to Ask on Every Venue Tour

Because pretty walls and fairy lights aren’t enough to seal the deal, babes.

You’ve got your Pinterest board. You’ve stalked the Instagram location tag. You’ve even imagined yourself doing your first dance under those string lights.

But here’s the truth: not every gorgeous venue = a good fit. Before you pay that non-refundable deposit, it’s time for a full-on vibe check.

Whether you're getting married on a wine farm, at a family kraal, or on a rooftop in Harare—this Venue Tour Vibe Checklist will help you ask the right questions and avoid future “how did we miss that?!” meltdowns.

🏛️ 1. The Logistics Vibe: Can This Place Function?

Ask these on arrival, not when your uncle’s kombi gets stuck in the parking lot.

✅ Is there enough parking (and is it safe + well-lit)?
✅ Do they allow shuttles or buses for guests?
✅ What’s the bathroom situation? (Clean? Enough stalls?)
✅ Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
✅ Is there a generator or inverter for load shedding?
✅ What time can we start setup, and when must we leave?

Pro tip: If your venue is rural or remote (game lodge, homestead, etc.), ask about cell service, bathroom access, and access roads after rain.

🎉 2. The Party Vibe: Can We Actually Have Fun Here?

Because a “no dancing after 9PM” policy is giving… funeral.

✅ What’s the latest we can play music? Any noise restrictions?
✅ Can we bring our own DJ or live band?
✅ Is there a dance floor—or space for one?
✅ Can we bring our own alcohol? What’s the corkage fee?
✅ Are there spaces for a cocktail hour or lounge vibe?
✅ Is confetti/sparklers/smoke machine allowed?

If you’re doing a traditional ceremony (like roora or umembeso), ask if you can bring your own food, live drummers, or sound system for the cultural parts of the day.

📸 3. The Photo Vibe: Will Our Pics Pop?

You want those Instagrammable corners, but also enough shade, light, and no awkward photobombers.

✅ What time does the sun set here? (for golden hour shots!)
✅ Are there shaded areas for portraits?
✅ Are there backup indoor photo spots in case of rain?
✅ Can the photographer scout the venue before the wedding?
✅ Is there somewhere for the couple to do a private “first look” or vows?

Bonus question: “Can we do our couple shoot here another day, post-wedding?” Some venues offer this!

👰 4. The Bridal Party Vibe: Will We Be Comfortable?

Because you’re not trying to change into your gown in a broom closet.

✅ Is there a private bridal room for changing, touch-ups, and pre-ceremony chill?
✅ Can both sides of the bridal party get ready here?
✅ Do you offer a fridge, steamer, mirror, fan/AC in the getting ready area?
✅ Can we bring snacks + bubbly to the prep room?
✅ Are there secure places for valuables (phones, gifts, wallets)?

💸 5. The Money Vibe: Are We Getting Value or Just Vibes?

Time to remove the rose-coloured glasses and ask:

✅ What’s included in the venue hire fee? (Tables, chairs, lighting, etc.)
✅ What’s not included?
✅ What are the deposit terms + payment schedule?
✅ Are we required to use your preferred vendors?
✅ Is there a cleaning fee? Corkage fee? Setup fee?
✅ Do you charge extra for a rehearsal or extra hours?

Sneaky tip: Ask if they offer weekday wedding discounts—some venues knock off 20–40% for Thursday or Friday bookings.

🧯 6. The Backup Plan Vibe: What If Things Go Wrong?

You need to know you’re covered when the unexpected happens (rain, illness, tech fails).

✅ Do you have a weather contingency plan for outdoor weddings?
✅ What happens if there’s load shedding or a blackout?
✅ Is there on-site coordination or do we bring our own planner?
✅ What happens if a vendor cancels?
✅ Are there venue staff available on the day?

📌 Quickfire Questions to End the Tour

Before you leave, ask:

“Can we pencil in a date before we commit?”

“Can we do a second visit closer to the wedding?”

“Do you have photos of weddings that match our style?”

“Can we bring in décor early or the night before?”

“Do you host more than one wedding per day?” (this one’s big!)

🎯 TL;DR: The Ultimate Vibe Check Before You Sign