Questions to Ask During a Destination Wedding Site Visit
You're off to a potential resort for your destination wedding, but do you know what questions to ask while you’re there? Have no fear - we took care of the work for you and created a list of our top questions to ask during your destination wedding site visit. Whether you’ve already signed your contract or just considering potential venues, this is your chance to learn more about the resort.
It is best to write down your questions (or print out this page!) so you ask all the right questions as you excitedly see your wedding resort, potentially for the first time. Remember, no question is ever too silly or unnecessary - this is your big day after all, and you want it to be perfect!
GENERAL RESORT QUESTIONS
What is included in the room cost for guests? If you are visiting an all-inclusive resort, dining, drinks, and entertainment are typically included, but confirm.
Are there any expenses guests would need to pay beyond the room cost?
What amenities are included for guests?
What restaurants are available to guests?
Do guests need to make restaurant reservations?
What rooms are available to guests? Ask to see any room that will be in your room block if available.
What entertainment options are available to guests?
What spa services are available?
What excursion options are available to guests?
What is within walking distance to the resort?
Ceremony & Reception Questions
What welcome cocktail hour / ceremony / reception locations are possible? Make sure to see them all.
Do you have any pictures of different venue set ups?
What décor options are available and what are the costs?
How will guests get from the ceremony to the reception?
Are there any other weddings booked for the same day?
Who will be the officiant for your ceremony?
Are there any documents or fees needed to perform your wedding ceremony?
Where will you get ready?
What do the complimentary table settings look like?
What are some upgrade options for linens, chairs, place settings- view them while there!
What menu items are available? Request a tasting if possible.
Can you request menu items for those with dietary restrictions or preferences (vegetarian, vegan, etc.)?
What types of flowers do they recommend?
Do you have to provide your own place cards? If not, what do they offer?
Is there an elevator nearby? If you have elderly guests, this will be important!
Where can you find the restrooms? Bathrooms might not always be next to your site, so you’ll want to have them pointed out to you.
What sort of lighting is included? Is it basic lighting or are lights not necessary? For an outdoor venue, what are the lighting alternatives (like string lights)? Are outdoor paths lit up, for safety and aesthetics? How is the lighting around the buffet and bar?
Where does food get set up? During the walk-through, find a spot on-site that would be the most convenient for your guests. And make sure the buffet table doesn’t take away from a stunning view!
Where should the open bar go? You want to make sure it's convenient for guests, but far enough from the dance floor so no one is knocked into on their way back to their seat.
What options are available if there is bad weather?
Meet Our Couples
VENDOR QUESTIONS
Who will be the photographer or do they have recommendations? If a resort photographer is included, request to see a portfolio. This is SO important to see work ahead of time!
Who are your preferred vendors for all categories (floral/decor/lighting/sound/DJ etc)?
Are there fees if you use outside vendors?
Are outside vendors allowed? Some resorts do not allow certain outside vendors or vendors at all. So this is important to ask and know your options when it comes to using a vendor outside of the preferred vendors that the resort works with.
Can you get a hair/make up test while visiting to see if you like their vendors?
If brining in a vendor from the USA and they stay in your room block, do you get the outside vendor fee reduced or waived?
Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful or taxing. Being engaged is meant to be a fun and joyous season in your life. Preparing what questions you want to ask your planner when planning a destination wedding is super important since you do have to put some trust in them when you’re not there. But by being prepared, you will have a perfectly planned, beautiful wedding.
Pro Tips
Extend your stay! Most site visits have a reduced rate for 2 nights. We recommend extending your stay, which might require you to pay full price for the additional nights. However, the extra time will really allow you to get to know your resort.
Schedule your tour for the evening. If you are having an evening ceremony and reception, schedule your tour during that time. This will allow you to get a sense of what all of the locations look like and what type of activity is happening at the resort during that time of day. If you are unable to schedule your tour during this time, walk the resort and your locations during this time on your own.
Write down your questions! This is your one chance to get all of your questions answered. Come prepared with a list in hand.
Request a tasting. Ask your planner if you can have a food tasting during your site visit to try all of your menu items.
Ready to start planning the destination wedding of your dreams?
Simply schedule a FREE consultation with one of our travel advisors. Our team will help you narrow down the perfect destination and resort.
When you plan with Shoreline Destinations, you’ll get:
Resort Selection - Our team is here to find the perfect destination and resort for you and your guests!
Dedicated Agent - When you plan with us, you’ll have a dedicated travel agent from beginning to end.
Competitive Pricing - With our industry connections, we’ll ensure you are receiving the best possible pricing and benefits.
Personalized Ceremony - We don’t have set packages. At Shoreline Destinations every ceremony is unique and completely customized.
Guest Reservations - We love getting to know all of your guests, helping them select the perfect room, and answering all their questions.
Guest Activities - Want a fire dancer at your welcome reception? Group snorkeling trip? Bring us your ideas and we’ll have some too!
