Top questions to ask when choosing a Winston-Salem venue
Whatever occasion you’re planning, you need to ask all the right questions when choosing your Winston-Salem venue. So, we’ve put together 14 important ones. And we’ve also answered them with a little friendly advice.
Crucial questions to ask your venue manager
When it comes to choosing a Winston-Salem venue, it’s important to prepare before the search. Have your dates ready, along with a general idea of the headcount. Think about the event type and style. Do you need catering? So many questions! Here are the ones that will get you on firm footing.
Is my date available? Because if it’s not, you need to either move on to the next venue on your list – or ask about alternative dates if you have flexibility. And sometimes that flexibility leads to venue rental savings.
What’s the venue capacity? Remember, you need to factor in seating style, room flow, and areas for additional activities like registration tables or a photo booth. Millennium Event Center offers three floors of flexible space to accommodate a variety of social and business events.
What’s included in the venue rental? Make sure the basics are covered, like tables, chairs, and linens. And keep your budget on track with a clear understanding of everything that’s included in your contract. Our premier Winston-Salem venue’s wedding rental package includes many wonderful extras, such decor options and elegant service ware.
What about the payment schedule and cancellation policy? Again, clarification is crucial. Know the policies and any options you may have if your event needs to be rescheduled.
Is there an in-house catering option? In-house catering saves you planning time and money. Millennium Event Center is proud to offer 5-star cuisine and exceptional service. Corporate and social menus can be customized to fit your style, tastes, and budget.
More important venue questions
Now that you’ve gotten through the basics, you’ll want to get the answers to these questions regarding time restraints, noise, decor, use of a coordinator, and vendor lists.
What are the time and noise restrictions? Know what time you and your vendors can begin setup and when you must finish with breakdown. And some neighborhoods have certain noise restrictions which impact the party’s volume and time frame.
What are the venue’s decor policies? Make sure you understand policies on open flames, bubbles, and confetti, as well as cold sparklers and dancing on a cloud. Millennium Center has amazing built-in decor, like crystal chandeliers and beads that swag from the ceiling, as well as fabric surrounds for columns. There’s even a stage!
Is there an on-site coordinator or do you require one? With our in-house team and ties to some of the best wedding and event vendors in the Triad, you can feel comfortable placing your occasion in our hands. But Millennium also welcomes event designers, planners, and day-of coordinators.
Are there any restrictions on vendor selection? You’ll find most venue managers offer a preferred list of event vendors, like photographers, entertainers, and bakers. It’s a benefit to work with vendors from this list – they know the venue and have worked together. Be sure to note the difference between preferred and required vendors.
Any more questions? Sure!
Finally, get the scoop on taking care of your guests when it comes to parking, disability access, and nearby accommodations. We even have a couple of special Q&As for wedding couples.
How is parking handled? Give your guests a touch of style when they arrive at your venue with valet parking. And you’ll want parking adjacent to the venue for special guests, like a wedding party or keynote speakers.
Is there disability access? Make all your guests feel welcome. Select a venue with ramps, elevators, close-by parking options, and bathroom accessibility.
Are there nearby guest accommodations? This is especially important for wedding parties, out of town guests, and corporate event speakers. The Millennium Center is conveniently located near a great selection of hotels.
What’s the plan for inclement weather? If you’re going the outdoor ceremony route, be sure to have that Plan B. We have perfect spaces for elegant indoor ceremonies, so rain is never a worry.
Can we have a rehearsal? Of course you can! Then settle into one of our beautiful rooms for a delicious rehearsal dinner featuring your favorites.
Need some more venue hunting advice? Check out Finding the Ideal Corporate Venue and 3 Essential Steps to Wedding Planning. And when you’re choosing your Winston-Salem venue, but sure to put Millennium Event Center on your short list!
