Read the contract carefully as there are a few clauses that catch couples out before they sign anything.

Minimum Spend and Guest Numbers

Many hotel wedding contracts are based on a minimum spend, linked to a specific number of guests attending your wedding. It is therefore very important to check how much flexibility there is, and at what point a reduction in numbers would no longer be allowed.

Cancellation and Postponement Terms

Check who is responsible for costs if you decide to cancel your wedding or postpone your wedding date. Make sure you understand the contract clauses and that you know your rights if the contract is breached before you sign it.

Exclusivity on the Day

This may be something that the hotel wedding venue charge more for, but can be worth it in order to avoid sharing the hotel, car parks, corridors and staff with other parties on the same day.

Supplier Restrictions and Corkage

Also note if your venue restricts outside usage of services, including caterers, and if they charge corkage for wine that you provide for your guests. Other services that you may need to use at your venue could include florists, musicians, and cake makers.

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Deposit Schedule and Force Majeure

This should outline the payment terms in full, and what happens in the extremely rare event that the venue has to close unexpectedly, or is unable to fulfil their commitments (and what you are protected by in such instances). Some protect the couple, others only the venue.

When booking a hotel wedding venue make sure to read the contract through and make sure you understand every term before signing it, as this is your main protection when booking a wedding.