How to Know If a Venue Is Right for You: 7 Questions Every Couple Should Ask
Choosing a wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you'll make while planning your big day. It sets the tone for everything—from your photos to your timeline to your budget. But with so many venues out there, how do you know which one is truly right for you?
To help you cut through the noise, we’ve put together a list of 7 smart questions every couple should ask. We’ll also share how Mirabelle Estate stacks up—and why more couples from Bakersfield and beyond are choosing to celebrate here.
1. Is the Venue All-Inclusive—or Will I Need to Find All My Vendors Separately?
Why it matters:
Planning a wedding means juggling dozens of moving parts. If your venue only provides the space, you’ll be responsible for sourcing tables, chairs, linens, catering, DJ, setup crew, florist—and coordinating every single one of them.
What to ask:
Do you offer vendor packages?
Are tables, chairs, and linens included?
Will someone help manage the timeline and setup?
At Mirabelle:
We offer all-inclusive packages with trusted vendors, from catering and florals to DJ and photography. That means fewer contracts, fewer decisions, and a much smoother planning process.
2. Is There a Weather Backup Plan?
Why it matters:
Outdoor weddings are beautiful—until it rains, or it's 110°. A tent rental can cost thousands and still not solve all the problems.
What to ask:
Is there an indoor space onsite?
How late can I make the call to move the ceremony inside?
At Mirabelle:
We offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, so you have built-in flexibility. No scrambling for last-minute tents or watching the forecast in panic.
3. How Many Hours Are Included—and What’s the Cleanup Policy?
Why it matters:
Some venues give you 6–8 hours and expect everything cleared out by 11pm—by you or your guests. That means couples often end up packing decorations and gifts late at night or paying extra for overtime and cleanup crews.
What to ask:
How many hours are included?
Is setup and cleanup time part of that?
Do I have to remove all my décor that night?
At Mirabelle:
Our packages include generous time blocks, dedicated staff for setup and cleanup, and even an onsite house so you can wake up and gather your belongings the next day—not at 11PM in your wedding dress.
4. Is There Onsite Parking and Lodging for Guests?
Why it matters:
Venues in more urban or rural areas may not have enough parking—or may require shuttle services at an added cost. If there’s no lodging nearby, your guests may leave early or need to drive long distances after the event.
What to ask:
How much parking is available?
Is there onsite lodging or a getting-ready suite?
At Mirabelle:
We have ample parking, an onsite house for the couple, and strong relationships with nearby hotels and rentals for guests. It’s easy and convenient for everyone.
5. Do You Offer Exclusive Use of the Venue?
Why it matters:
Some venues book multiple events in a single day—or even at the same time. That can mean limited privacy, noise overlap, or shared bathrooms and parking.
What to ask:
Will another event be happening during mine?
Do I have full access to the property?
At Mirabelle:
You get exclusive use of the entire 19-acre estate on your wedding day. That means total privacy, a relaxed timeline, and no strangers in your photos.
6. Is the Staff Hands-On and Responsive?
Why it matters:
You need a team that’s proactive, communicative, and supportive—not one that disappears after your deposit clears.
What to ask:
Who will be my point of contact?
Will I get help with planning or coordinating?
At Mirabelle:
Our team is known for above-and-beyond customer service. We help with planning, timelines, vendor coordination, and day-of logistics—so you don’t have to stress.
7. Is the Venue Truly Within Budget—Or Will Hidden Costs Creep In?
Why it matters:
A venue may seem affordable at first glance, but hidden costs—like rentals, staffing, and required vendors—can drive up your total spend.
What to ask:
Are taxes, gratuity, and service fees included?
Are there required vendor minimums?
What additional rentals will I need?
At Mirabelle:
Our pricing is transparent and designed for budget-conscious couples. We don’t nickel and dime you with surprise fees, and our all-inclusive packages are carefully curated to deliver maximum value at a clear, upfront price.
Final Thoughts: The Right Venue Feels Right—and Functions Right
At the end of the day, your wedding venue should offer peace of mind, not pressure. It should work with your budget, reflect your style, and support your vision—not create more work for you.
At Mirabelle Estate, we specialize in affordable, all-inclusive weddings that deliver beauty, ease, and genuine care. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a cozy micro-wedding, we’re here to help you make it unforgettable.
Want to learn more or schedule a tour? Click here to contact us or Download our pricing guide to see why Mirabelle might be the right fit for your wedding day.
