What is this about? A complete guide to the questions every couple should ask when visiting a wedding venue, with advice on what to look for in the answers.
Key details: Covers 50+ questions across eight themes including the basics, ceremony spaces, food and drink, the team, accommodation, costs, and the practical details. Includes Tredudwell Manor’s own answers as real-world examples throughout.
Why this matters: Most couples have never planned a wedding before and don’t know what to ask at a venue visit. Knowing the right questions (and what good answers look like) helps couples make a confident, informed decision.
We love hearing that gasp when showing potential couples around our Cornwall wedding venue, with its extensive grounds and incredible views of the coastline. We get it – a wedding venue visit is one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding! It’s where you can truly start to picture yourselves getting married there. But knowing what to actually ask a wedding venue when you’re there can feel overwhelming.
Our guide covers more than 50 questions to ask a wedding venue, with advice on why each one is important to know. Asking these questions is a good insight into how much the venue cares about your big day and all the intricate details (and there are a lot – we should know!) We’ve included our own answers from Tredudwell Manor throughout, so you can see what to expect from a venue that’s been doing this for over a decade.
We’ve covered almost every single base right here, but if there’s something you want to know but can’t find, please do get in touch and we’d be happy to help! So, without further ado, here are all the essential questions to ask your wedding venue – answered by us!
The Basics: Your Non-Negotiables for a Wedding Venue
These are the questions to ask first. If a wedding venue can’t answer these in a way that works for you, the rest of the visit doesn’t matter.
How many guests can you accommodate?
Wedding venues often have different capacities for the ceremony and reception. Make sure the numbers work for both parts of your day, and check whether the capacity feels comfortable rather than just technically possible.
You need a clear breakdown of ceremony capacity, reception capacity, and evening guest numbers, along with a clear sense of how the space feels at maximum capacity.
You also need to know how the ceremony and reception spaces are organised in relation to your wedding day timeline and ensure that no guests will feel that they would need to move out of the way or be inconvenienced in any way.
We can accommodate up to 220 guests for both the ceremony and reception. Couples consistently tell us the space feels warm and intimate even at larger numbers, which is one of the things that surprises people most on their first visit.
We love showing our couples that none of your wedding guests will feel left out if they go to the bar as our large bar is ideally located in the center of our barn.
Read more about our ceremony spaces and reception spaces.
Is the venue available on our preferred date?
It might sound obvious, but it’s worth asking how long the venue can hold a date provisionally while you check with family and registrars.
You need to know what policy the venue has and whether they will hold your date for you even if you can’t put down the deposit yet.
At Tredudwell, we hold your preferred date provisionally for seven days so you can check with family and registrars. This keeps things fair for all enquiring couples while giving you time to check what you need to line up for the date.
Get in touch to check our latest availability
Is the venue exclusively ours for the day?
Some venues run multiple weddings on the same day. This affects parking, staffing, noise, and the overall feeling of the day. Exclusive hire means the entire venue is yours for 3 days.
You need to hear a clear yes, with confirmation that no other events will be running simultaneously.
At Tredudwell, you always get exclusive hire as guaranteed with every booking. Our whole 650 acres estate is yours for the weekend.
Can we get married here as well as celebrate here?
Not every venue is licensed for ceremonies. Some are reception-only, which means you’ll need to organise a separate ceremony location and manage the logistics of getting guests between two venues.
You need confirmation of exactly which spaces are licensed, whether indoors, outdoors, or both.
At Tredudwell, we’re licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Indoor options include the Pavilion wedding barn, and outdoors we have the Roman Temple amphitheatre in the gardens. You also have the option of marrying at our local church, St Wyllow, just five minutes away, and celebrating at Tredudwell for the reception.
Related: Plan your wedding ceremony with us
Do you have accommodation on site?
On-site accommodation at your wedding venue changes the feel of a wedding entirely. Couples and their nearest guests can relax into the weekend without worrying about taxis or travel. It’s also worth asking about nearby options for larger guest lists.
You need clear information on capacity, room types, and what nearby accommodation options look like for guests who can’t stay on site.
At Tredudwell, our manor house sleeps up to 18 guests across our B&B rooms. For larger parties, we work with The Vale, providing beautiful accommodation ten minutes away for up to 58 guests. We also offer an extensive list of local accommodation and we can put you in touch with a shuttle bus who can organise the routes together with you.
What does the wedding venue cost and what’s included?
Quick quotes from venues can be misleading if you don’t know what’s included. Some venues charge separately for ceremony spaces, staffing, linen, and cleaning, which all add up quickly.
You need to request a transparent breakdown of what’s included, what costs extra, and confirmation of whether VAT is included in quoted prices.
At Tredudwell, our packages include:
- VAT is included in all our prices
- Luxury B&B accommodation for up to 18 guests for 2 nights stay including breakfasts is from £2,700 (guest contribution is £75 per night per guest).
- Exclusive use of our wedding venue from the night before through to the day after (we can also extend to wedding weekends)
- Your choice of 6 ceremony spaces within our grounds
- Use of the wedding barn for up to 220 guests with tables and chairs
- Use of the in-house bar and team
- Access to our in-house chef and catering kitchen.
- There are no hidden staff or cleaning costs.
Planning & Coordination at the Wedding Venue
These questions tell you a lot about what the experience of planning with a venue will actually feel like.
Who will be our main point of contact throughout planning?
Changing contacts during a long planning process is stressful and means explaining yourself repeatedly. Knowing you’ll have one consistent person makes a real difference.
You need to know the name of the coordinator who will be with you from first enquiry through to the wedding weekend.
Here at Tredudwell, Hayley is your dedicated wedding coordinator. Becky is our housekeeper and will be looking after you during your house stay.
Ellie and Codie will be in charge of your evening coordination and be your team during the wedding celebration, from the moment you get in touch through to the moment you leave on Sunday morning, (or whenever you choose to get married – we also offer selected mid week wedding dates).
How do you prefer to communicate with couples during planning?
Some couples want frequent check-ins, others prefer to be left alone until they have questions. Knowing how a wedding venue works helps you understand whether it’ll suit your style.
You need to know the clear process that makes it easy to get quick answers when you need them.
At Tredudwell, we use a WhatsApp group chat with you both for quick questions and updates throughout the planning process. Our couples love it because it’s easy and quick. You can start a WhatsApp chat with us here.
How long before the wedding can we access the venue for setup?
If you’re planning lots of personal touches and decor, you need time to do it without rushing and some venues only allow access on the morning of the wedding.
At Tredudwell, you have exclusive access from 8am the day before until noon the day after your wedding. Many couples use the setup day as the start of their wedding weekend, settling in with family and getting everything just right without any time pressure.
Do we have to use your recommended suppliers?
Some venues have a preferred supplier list that’s mandatory, others are completely open, some prefer you to use their recommended suppliers but it’s not 100% necessary. Knowing this upfront helps you plan your budget and understand your options.
At Tredudwell, you have free rein to choose your wedding photographer, videographer, florist, musicians, DJs, styling and decor – we are happy to recommend people but it is not mandatory by any means. For food, we work with an in-house catering team led by Chef Glynn Wellington, which means food is handled by someone who knows the venue and kitchen inside out.
Are there any restrictions on decor?
Decor restrictions vary hugely between venues. Some are very open, others have strict rules about what can be attached to walls, used on tables, or lit in the space.
You need to request a list of all restrictions with the reasoning behind them, rather than a vague “we’re quite flexible.”
At Tredudwell, we have very few restrictions. We ask that nothing is stuck to walls (no blu tack) and that naked flames are avoided, such as Chinese lanterns or open candles in jars. Beyond that, the space is yours to make your own.
Can we have confetti?
Many venues restrict confetti for environmental reasons or because it’s difficult to clear up. This is worth checking before you fall in love with a confetti moment.
At Tredudwell we ask that you use only, biodegradable confetti only please, lovely dried flowers confetti too are a great option.
Read more about our sustainability policy as a sustainable wedding venue in Cornwall.
The Ceremony
The ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, so asking these questions make sure it goes exactly as you’ve imagined.
What ceremony spaces do you have and which are licensed?
Knowing your options helps you picture the day and plan around guest numbers, season, and personal preference.
We have six ceremony spaces across the Tredudwell Manor estate, including the wedding barn, the Roman Temple amphitheatre, and several locations within the manor house and gardens. All are licensed for legal ceremonies.
What happens if we’ve planned an outdoor ceremony and the weather is bad?
This is one of the most important questions to ask any venue. You need to know the venue has a clear indoor backup with the same care and thought put into it as the outdoor option.
We plan every outdoor ceremony with a clear indoor backup from the start. Our retractable dividing wall in our barn means the transition is completely seamless. You can read more about how we handle weather in our guide here.
Can we have a ceremony rehearsal?
A rehearsal reduces nerves significantly, particularly for the processional and any readings or rituals you’re including.
At Tredudwell we include a ceremony rehearsal covering both outdoor and indoor options so you’re completely prepared for whichever way the day unfolds.
Can we have live music during the ceremony?
Some venues have noise restrictions or limited space for musicians which is worth checking early if live music is important to you.
Many of our Tredudwell couples have live music for their ceremony, whether that’s a string quartet, a solo guitarist, or a piper with no restrictions on noise as we’re so beautifully surrounded by nature.
Can we plug in a phone or device for ceremony music?
Yes, many Tredudwell couples use a phone or device for their ceremony music and our sound system accommodates this easily.
Food and Drink
It’s vital to know all about the feast you plan to provide for you and your guests, so these questions help you understand exactly what’s on offer and what flexibility you have.
Do you have an in-house catering team or do we need to source our own?
In-house catering means the kitchen team knows the venue, the flow of the day, and exactly how to time service.
You need clarity on exactly who handles food and how the relationship between the kitchen and the venue team works.
At Tredudwell we have an in-house catering team led by Chef Glynn Wellington, who creates seasonal menus using local Cornish produce. Glynn has built menus around everything from formal three-course dinners to fully vegan sharing feasts, and he’s always happy to incorporate cultural elements or personal touches.
Learn more about all the delicious options for wedding catering we offer here.
Is there a corkage fee?
Corkage fees can add significantly to your drinks budget. Some venues charge per bottle, others charge a flat fee, and some offer an allowance. You need to know the venue’s, transparent drinks policy with no surprises on the day.
At Tredudwell, we offer a generous wine allowance for the wedding breakfast with no corkage fees. This covers a third of a bottle of wine per guest during the meal and one glass per guest for the toast. All other drinks are purchased from our bar.
Are canapés included?
Canapés during the drinks reception are an important part of the guest experience, and they’re not always included in venue hire packages which can mean an unexpected add on when it’s too late.
At Tredudwell, canapés are included as standard. This is pretty unusual for a venue of our size but we know it’s something our couples love!
Can you cater for dietary requirements including vegan and gluten-free?
Our inhouse chef Glynn handles all dietary requirements with real care, including fully vegan and gluten-free menus. We organise a planning meeting well in advance so dietary information from all guests can be gathered and accounted for properly.
What are the bar arrangements and what time does the bar close?
Bar arrangements vary hugely between venues. Understanding last orders, closing times, and pricing helps you plan the evening properly.
Our bar is open until last orders at 11:30pm with the bar closing at midnight. An extended licence until 12:30am is available for an additional fee of £200. Cash and card are both accepted and our bar prices are competitive.
Can we have cocktails at our wedding?
Tredudwell offers bespoke cocktail and mocktail packages and all 2026 bookings include a complimentary cocktail hour. Couples regularly tell us the cocktail menu is one of the highlights of the evening.
The Team
The venue team can make or break the experience, so these questions help you understand who you’ll be working with and how involved they’ll be.
Who will be on site on our wedding day?
Knowing who’s there and what their role is gives you confidence. You want to know there’s a clear point of contact for suppliers, guests, and any unexpected moments.
Our wedding coordinator Hayley coordinates everything up to and including the ceremony. Our bar and evening team, led by Codie and Ellie, both licensed premises supervisors and first aid qualified, take over from there. We don’t use agency staff. Every team member is part of the Tredudwell family.
Do you use agency staff?
Agency staff can be less familiar with the venue, less invested in the outcome, and harder to coordinate. It’s a question worth asking directly. If the venue uses agency staff, you need to have a clear explanation of how agency staff are integrated and briefed.
Tredudwell never uses agency staff. Every person working your wedding knows Tredudwell well and cares deeply about how the day goes.
How many staff will be working on our wedding day?
For a wedding of 100 guests, we have a minimum of three team members on the bar and terrace throughout the evening, alongside the front of house and catering team. We put more staff on if you invite more guests.
The Evening Reception
What time does the evening reception need to finish?
We’re licensed until midnight with an optional late licence available until 12:30am for an additional fee of £200. Music is turned down after the bar closes and the Pavilion closes at 1am.
Can we have a live band or DJ?
Some venues have noise restrictions that limit the kind of entertainment you can have. Others have sound limiters that cut off music above a certain volume.
Live bands and DJs are welcome at Tredudwell Manor and can set up any time without disturbing the wedding breakfast, as our dividing wall is fully soundproofed.
Plan an unforgettable evening reception for your wedding with us here
Is there evening food?
Evening food is available through our catering team at Tredudwell, from Cornish pasties to more elaborate late-night spreads. Many couples choose something relaxed and informal for the evening, and Glynn is always happy to match the food to the mood.
Can you cut and serve our wedding cake?
Tredudwell doesn’t charge a cake-cutting fee but you’ll need to bring your own cake-cutting utensils. Do check with the venues you’re visiting to see what their policy is.
Can we have fireworks?
Tredudwell can recommend trusted fireworks suppliers and will advise on the best timing and location on the estate.
Costs and What’s Included
How much is the deposit and when is the balance due?
Tredudwell charges 25% of your chosen package price as the deposit. The final payment is due one month before your wedding date.
Are there any additional charges for staff, cleaning, or room hire?
Staff and cleaning are included in Tredudwell venue hire fees – what we quote is what you pay.
Are wedding venue prices negotiable?
Some venues have flexibility, particularly for off-peak dates. Our prices aren’t negotiable, as this wouldn’t be fair to other couples.
We do run special offers and we’re always happy to help couples think through priorities to make the most of their budget.
What is your cancellation policy?
Circumstances change so knowing the cancellation policy before you sign gives you peace of mind and helps you decide whether wedding insurance makes sense.
Please refer to our full terms and conditions for details – we can provide these when you enquire
The Practical Details
These questions are easy to forget in the excitement of a venue visit but they matter enormously on the day itself.
Is there enough parking on site?
Tredudwell has plenty of secure on-site parking for all guests.
What are the taxi and transport options?
In rural venues especially, taxis need to be pre-booked. Knowing this in advance means you can brief guests properly.
Local taxis are reliable but must be pre-booked as they get busy. We provide a recommended taxi list when you enquire.
Is the venue accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Tredudwell is fully accessible for guests with mobility requirements.
Read our accessibility guide here https://tredudwell.co.uk/accessibility
How many toilets are there?
We have three ladies’ toilets, four gents’, one accessible toilet, and baby changing facilities.
Are children welcome?
Yes. It’s entirely up to you whether you include children in your wedding day and we’re happy to accommodate them.
Are dogs or pets welcome?
Yes! We’re pet-friendly. You can read about our weddings with very important canine guests here.
Is there somewhere secure to store our wedding gifts?
Yes. We can arrange secure, lockable storage for gifts and cards during the reception.
Do you have public liability insurance?
Yes. We are fully covered by public liability insurance.
Does it matter that we don’t live locally?
Couples planning from a distance often worry about logistics. A good venue will have experience of this and make it easy.
Not at all. We welcome couples from across the UK and beyond. We’ve put together a complete guide on planning your Cornwall wedding from outside the county.
How does the wedding venue make you feel?
All the practical questions matter, but when you’ve finished your venue visit and you’re driving home, the most important question is a simple one.
The best wedding venues are the ones where the team makes you feel genuinely looked after, where the space feels like it could be yours, and where you can picture the day unfolding naturally. Those things are hard to put on a checklist, but you’ll know them when you feel them.
If you’d like to come and see Tredudwell Manor for yourself, we’d love to welcome you for a viewing. Hayley will show you around, answer every question on your list (and the ones you forgot to write down), and give you plenty of time to take it all in.
We hope this guide full of questions to ask your wedding venue in Cornwall was helpful for you. Please do let us know if there’s anything we’ve missed out that you’re keen to know!
Valerie & all at Tredudwell x
