Finding the perfect location for your Long Island wedding can feel like a major undertaking. Yes there is a lot to consider but when you know the right questions to ask, you have a better chance of getting the answers you need to plan your perfect Long Island wedding reception.

1. What is included in the quoted price?
When you start looking at venues for your Long Island wedding reception get a detailed list in writing of what is included in the quoted price. If you are going to be comparing venues you want to make sure you are comparing the same things.

2. Would a Friday or Sunday wedding be less expensive?
Not always, but with some venues you can get a better rate by being willing to have your wedding on a day besides Saturday. A Friday evening wedding can be fun and a Sunday brunch wedding can be an especially elegant choice. Since these days are not as heavily booked as Saturday you may be able to negotiate a better rate.

3. What outside vendors are allowed?
Suppose you have your heart set on a particular baker, florist or even caterer. You will want to know what types of outside vendors are allowed at the facility. Ask for a preferred vendor list.

4. How flexible is the menu?
Many people have eating restrictions these days that you want to be sure that you can accommodate your guests. Ask what the options are for your guests that may be vegan, gluten-free or lactose intolerant.

5. What is the alcohol policy?
Some venues will allow you to bring your own wine or even liquor in for a fee. If this is something you are considering be sure to find out what the policy and fee is for each venue.

6. Is there a Plan B for bad weather?
If you are having all or part of your wedding outside you want to make sure that the venue has a plan B in place for your party on the day of your wedding. This is especially true on the most popular wedding dates. Ask to see the room that your event will be moved to in case of inclement weather.

7. Is the venue handicapped accessible?
Even if you aren’t aware of any disabled guests you are inviting, your older relatives may appreciate being able to avoid that grand staircase you fell in love with for your pictures. Are there easily accessible elevators to accommodate them?

8. Are their health inspections and insurance up to date?
This should go without saying but you still need to ask. If for no other reason than your own piece of mind. Ask to see a copy of the most recent health inspection.

9. Are you required to carry event insurance?
Along the same lines as the last concern, some venues are now requiring the host to buy a short term “event” insurance policy. You should find out what the policy at your venue is.

10. What is the payment and cancellation policy?
Most every vendor connected with your wedding will require a deposit to book your date. Be sure to ask what percentage the retainer is and when the subsequent payments are due. You should also ask about the cancellation policy. In the unlikely event that your wedding is canceled or has to be moved to a different date or location, you will want to know if you have any options.

As you can see, there are more questions involved in finding the perfect Long Island Catering Hall for your wedding reception than “is the date available”. Now as you narrow down your choices you can be sure you are comparing apples to apples, not oranges.