10 Must-Ask Questions Before Booking a Wedding Venue in Rochester

Your wedding venue is the foundation of your big day. It sets the atmosphere, determines how comfortable your guests will be, and impacts nearly every other decision you make—catering, décor, photography, and more. With so much riding on the venue, it’s important to ask the right questions before signing a contract. If you’re searching for a wedding venue in Rochester, NY, here are the 10 must-ask questions every couple should consider.

At Chef’s Event Center & Party House, we’ve hosted thousands of weddings and receptions, and we know the questions that make the biggest difference. Let’s break them down one by one.

1. What Is the Venue’s Capacity?

Before anything else, confirm how many guests the venue can comfortably accommodate. You’ll want enough space for your guest list, dance floor, and catering setup without feeling crowded. The banquet hall at Chef’s Event Center can host up to 300 guests, making it a versatile option for both intimate weddings and large celebrations.

2. Can the Ceremony and Reception Be Held in One Location?

Travel logistics can be stressful for you and your guests. Ask if you can host both the ceremony and reception at the same venue. At Chef’s Event Center, couples often choose to hold both events here, allowing guests to transition smoothly from vows to cocktails to dinner without ever leaving the property.

Tip: If simplifying your day is important, schedule a tour of venues that offer this flexibility.

3. What Catering Options Are Available?

Food is one of the most memorable parts of any wedding, so catering options should be a top priority. Does the venue provide in-house catering, or will you need to hire an outside vendor? With Chef’s Event Center, couples benefit from Chef’s Catering, a Rochester favorite known for balancing quality and value. Explore our sample menus for inspiration.

4. Is There a Designated Event Coordinator?

Managing timelines, vendors, and last-minute details can be overwhelming. Ask whether the venue provides a coordinator to keep your day on track. Our designated event coordinators are dedicated to ensuring your reception runs smoothly, so you can relax and enjoy every moment.

5. What Is Included in the Rental Fee?

Not all venues are transparent about what’s included. Some charge extra for tables, chairs, linens, or setup. Make sure you ask for a clear breakdown. At Chef’s Event Center, couples love that so much is included in our packages—from setup and teardown to staff support—making budgeting easier and reducing stress.

6. Are There Décor and Style Restrictions?

Some venues limit what couples can bring in for décor. Be sure to ask whether you’ll be able to fully personalize the space with your wedding theme. The neutral tones and modern renovations at Chef’s Event Center allow for full creativity, giving you the freedom to design a reception that reflects your style. Browse our gallery to see how other couples customized the space.

7. How Convenient Is the Location for Guests?

Accessibility matters. Consider whether the venue is easy for guests to find, especially if you have friends and family traveling from outside the area. Located in Spencerport, NY, Chef’s Event Center is only minutes from Rochester, Greece, Chili, and Brockport. The grounds also provide plenty of parking and beautiful photo opportunities.

8. What Technology and Amenities Are Available?

Ask about the venue’s sound system, lighting, and other amenities that will impact the guest experience. Our venue features modern updates including high-quality lighting and sound systems designed to create a lively, elegant atmosphere. These built-in features save couples from having to bring in outside vendors.

9. Can the Venue Accommodate Special Requests?

Whether it’s a cultural tradition, special menu item, or unique setup, you’ll want to know how flexible the venue can be. Chef’s Event Center works closely with couples to accommodate requests, from custom food stations to personalized floor plans. This flexibility is one of the reasons couples consistently recommend us.

10. What Do Other Couples Say About the Venue?

Finally, ask about testimonials and reviews. Real feedback from other couples can provide reassurance and insights you may not have considered. Take a look at our testimonials to see how other Rochester couples describe their experience at Chef’s Event Center.

Final Thoughts: The Right Questions Lead to the Right Venue

Booking your wedding venue is a major milestone in planning your Rochester wedding. By asking these 10 questions, you’ll feel confident you’re choosing a space that meets your needs, reflects your vision, and provides peace of mind on your special day. Chef’s Event Center & Party House checks all these boxes, which is why couples across Western New York continue to choose us for their weddings.

Ready to see why we’re Rochester’s top choice for wedding receptions? Contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about our wedding packages.

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Contact Information

Chef’s Event Center & Party House
1875 North Union Street
Spencerport, NY 14559
Phone: 585-352-3300
Email: info@chefseventcenter.com