This week we’re thrilled to turn the keyboard over to Katie Marotta with the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park! She will be sharing some valuable tips for couples who are in the venue selection stage of planning, and also provide a list of helpful questions to ask venues of interest.
Katie has worked with the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park for 4.5 years. The Conservancy is an organization that supports and encourages those to connect to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and by hosting weddings here, they are able to preserve the park for future generations. She started as an event host in 2012 and was promoted to Sales & Guest Services Manager in 2015. Currently, Katie manages both the Hines Hill Campus for special events as well as Stanford House for overnight use. She loves working in such a beautiful park, and especially loves working with brides to help make their dream weddings happen! She says the best part of her job is greeting guests and seeing their faces light up as they enter the completed wedding day setup.
Photo Credit: Janelle Putrich Photography
Always schedule a site visit
Scheduling a site visit with the facility manager gives you a chance to walk through each part of the wedding day and gain inspiration from the manager’s past experiences at that particular venue.
Be flexible
Know that every venue’s available dates are constantly changing, so it helps to be open to what’s available.
Disclose important details
Having an estimated guest count and disclosing any other important details are going to help the facility manager give you better options for your wedding needs.
Come prepared
I think it’s beneficial for brides to come prepared with an open mind, a tape measure, and a camera.
Photo Credit: Janelle Putrich Photography
Questions to ask:
What are the rules and regulations particular to the venue and outside property?
What are the out of season dates and deals available?
What is the venue capacity, amenities, and any restrictions?
What furniture and decor items are provided?
What additional furniture will be needed, outside of what the venue provides?
What is the earliest time that setup can begin?
Is there a set time that cleanup needs to begin and is there a cutoff time where guests need to vacate the site?
What is the alcohol policy?
Exclusive vendors and catering options
Who are your recommended vendors? These vendors are ones to take with great consideration and have experience working with the venue.
Does the venue have decoration inspiration or suggestions?
Is there lodging nearby and/or any overnight bridal specials?
Is security required?
How much parking is available to guests?
What outside lighting does the venue provide and what are some additional lighting options, if needed?
Are there any outside noise ordinances?
What is required in order to reserve a date?
What is the cancellation policy?
Bottom line – remember, this is your special day, and when you find the right venue, the rest will be a walk in the park!
We hope these questions and tips will help all the newly engaged couples out there with their venue search! Thank you for the wonderful tips, Katie!
