5 Common Wedding Venue Restrictions Every Couple Should Know
Every wedding venue has a unique set of rules, regulations, and restrictions outlined in their contracts. Below are 5 of the most common wedding venue restrictions, and how they can impact your wedding. Let’s dive in and navigate it together!
Venue– The Richland | Photography– XO & Fetti
#1- Length of Rental Period
A regulation that is in every venue contract is the rental period length. Venues outline a standard set of hours, typically 6-12 hours. It is important to distinguish the total number of hours allowed on site (which includes setup and breakdown) vs the hours outlined for an event. Some venues offer extended hours, often at an hourly or day rate, which allows for more flexibility on the design scale and length of your wedding.
When reviewing the rental period of your wedding venue, there are a few things to consider. How long do you want your wedding ceremony & reception to be? How long will vendors need for setup & breakdown? What time are vendors allowed to enter the property and what time do they need to leave?
#2- Decor
Decor restrictions can significantly impact wedding planning & design choices that you make. Certain rules are in place to protect the venue, maintain safety standards, and follow city rules. Understanding these guidelines ensures your decor vision aligns with the venue’s policies.
Common rules include the use of candles, which may need to be placed inside a hurricane vase or not used at all. Due to nails, glue, and tape, attaching decor & flowers to your venue’s ceilings, walls, tree, etc. may be limited or not allowed. Faux flower petals, rice, or glitter which is often tossed during your wedding recessional are typically restricted. Pyrotechnics such as handheld sparklers, cold sparklers, or fireworks may not be allowed at your venue.
#3- Vendor List
It is very common for wedding venues to have preferred vendors, and some venues require that you use the vendors on their list. These vendors typically include wedding planners, catering, and rentals, sometimes including photography, videographer, and entertainment as well. These lists are curated based on the vendor’s reliability, quality of service, and familiarity with the venue.
While these lists can help streamline your wedding planning, it is important to note that they can limit your options. These vendors may be out of your budget range or may not align with your style/ vision. It is important to research these vendors before booking the venue and inquire about any flexibility in selecting outside vendors.
#4- Noise Ordinance
Noise ordinance is an important policy to consider when selecting a wedding venue, as it can impact your wedding timing & activities. These noise ordinances often require music to end at a certain time, typically around 10 or 11 PM to minimize disturbances in the surrounding community. This is especially true for venues in residential areas or outdoor spaces.
Discussing these regulations with the venue will help you plan your timeline. There are other options you can explore, such as moving the dance party indoors or finding an after-party venue.
#5- Insurance
Wedding day insurance is essential for couples, offering protection against unforeseen accidents or events. This may include vendor cancellations, weather, property damage, or personal injuries. With the significant financial and emotional investment that goes into wedding planning, insurance provides peace of mind about any mishaps.
Many venues require that couples have wedding day insurance to mitigate risk and protect both parties. Outlines in their contract are the insurance requirements, and couples need to submit their certificate of insurance (COI) to the venue before the wedding day. Even if your venue does not require insurance, it is still a good idea to get wedding day insurance.
Sophia Kraak
Sophia Katarina Events