Things to consider when booking a ceremony venue in the Philippines

Availability & Scheduling

• Is the ceremony space available on our preferred date(s) and time(s)?
• Do you host more than one wedding per day or overlapping time slots?
• How long is the standard block time for the ceremony (including ingress/egress)?
• Can we extend the time block? What are the overtime rates and increments?
• Are sunrise or sunset ceremonies allowed? Are there peak-hour surcharges?
• What time can suppliers start setup, and by when must teardown be completed?
• Do you allow rehearsals? When and for how long? Any fees?

Capacity, Layout & Flow

• What is the maximum seated capacity for the ceremony?
• How many people can the aisle and altar/stage comfortably accommodate?
• Do you have a recommended seating layout (center aisle, two aisles, semi-circle)?
• Is there space for an entourage/bridal party lineup and processional staging?
• Where will the officiant stand and where are microphones placed?
• Is there a private holding room for the couple and entourage before the ceremony?
• Can you provide a floor plan with measurements and load-in paths?

Ceremony Style & Officiants

• Do you accommodate religious, civil, interfaith, or symbolic ceremonies?
• Are there any restrictions on the officiant we can bring?
• Do you have a list of accredited officiants or can you assist with referrals?
• Can we personalize vows, readings, and rituals (e.g., veil-cord-coins, sand, unity candle)?
• How much time is allotted for the full rites vs. a shortened ceremony?

Location, Travel & Accessibility

• How accessible is the ceremony site for guests, elderly, and PWDs?
• Are there ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms near the ceremony space?
• How many parking slots are available? Is there paid/overflow parking?
• Is there a designated drop-off zone for the bridal car and VIPs?
• Are there traffic considerations or road closures we should expect on weekends/holidays?
• What’s the walking distance from parking to the ceremony site?

Weather, Backup & Contingencies (Outdoor/Garden/Beach)

• What is your rain plan and who decides when to activate it?
• Is there a covered/indoor backup space on-site? What is its capacity?
• Do you provide tents, sidewalls, or flooring for wet ground? What are the costs?
• How do you handle strong winds, heat, or high humidity?
• Are umbrellas, fans, or hydration stations available for guests?
• What months historically pose weather challenges at this location?

Sound, Power & Technical

• Do you provide a sound system for the ceremony (mics, speakers, mixer)?
• Are lapel and handheld microphones available for officiant/readers?
• Where are the power outlets and how much load (amps) is available?
• Are there sound curfews, decibel limits, or community noise rules?
• Do you have a generator or backup power? What capacity and auto-start capability?
• Can we patch in a live musician/band or string quartet? Any restrictions?

Décor, Styling & Setup

• What décor is included (arch, backdrop, aisle markers, pedestals)?
• Can we bring our own altar/arch, flowers, candles, or lanterns?
• Are open flames, sparklers, confetti, petals, bubbles, or fireworks allowed?
• Do you permit hanging installations? What rigging/weight limits apply?
• Are there restrictions on adhesives, tacks, or draping on walls/trees/pews?
• Who is responsible for cleanup of petals/confetti/sand? Are cleaning fees applied?
• Do you allow signage and welcome boards at the entrance/pathways?

Vendor Policies

• Do you have an accredited/required list for stylists, florists, lights & sound?
• If outside vendors are allowed, are there corkage or access fees?
• What are the vendor load-in/load-out rules and schedules?
• Do vendors need IDs, permits, or insurance to enter the property?
• Is there a holding area or pantry for suppliers?
• Who coordinates with vendors on the day (your team or our planner)?

Photo, Video & Livestream

• Are there restrictions on photography angles, flash, or drones?
• Where can tripods and livestream gear be set up?
• Do you have a recommended camera platform/viewpoint for the processional?
• Are there areas off-limits during the ceremony?
• Is there a power and internet source for livestreaming?

Guest Experience & Comfort

• Are restrooms nearby and sufficient for our guest count?
• Do you provide ushers or attendants for seating?
• Can you provide water/hydration stations or welcome refreshments?
• Are there shade structures, fans, or cooling misters in hot months?
• Do you have insect/mosquito mitigation for garden or beach sites?
• Are pets allowed for the ceremony? Any rules for pet handlers?

On-the-Day Team & Coordination

• Will a venue coordinator be present from setup to teardown?
• What are the coordinator’s exact responsibilities vs. a private wedding planner?
• How many security and maintenance staff will be on duty?
• How do you manage crowd control and latecomers once the ceremony starts?
• Do you provide cueing for processionals, music timing, and door openings?

Costs, Inclusions & Packages

• What exactly is included in the ceremony venue fee?
• Are chairs, aisle carpet/runner, lectern, and basic sound included?
• Are taxes and service charges included or added on top?
• Do you offer weekday, morning, or off-peak rates?
• Do you have bundled packages (ceremony + reception/photo op areas)?
• Are there overtime, cleaning, or damage-deposit fees?

Payments, Contracts & Policies

• How much is the reservation/booking fee and is it deductible from the balance?
• What are the payment milestones and accepted payment methods?
• What is your postponement and cancellation policy (including acts of nature)?
• Are bookings transferable to another date or couple?
• Do you require event liability insurance?
• What are the fines for rule violations (noise, décor damage, overtime)?

Permits, Compliance & Community

• Do you handle or assist with any required permits for outdoor/public spaces?
• Are there barangay/LGU curfews or ordinances we must follow?
• Are there restrictions on amplified music, fireworks, or drones from local authorities?
• Do you coordinate with homeowners’ associations or resort management, if applicable?

Sustainability & House Rules

• Do you have policies on single-use plastics, balloon releases, and waste segregation?
• Can florals be donated or repurposed after the event?