Think saying "I do" is going to be the most emotional moment in your
wedding? Probably so, but putting down a deposit on your wedding venue
could be a close runner-up.

Reception costs consume almost half the budget for the wedding, which
these days means you can expect to lay out almost $13,000, including
food. And the venue you select can not only limit your choice of
caterers or bakers, it's sure to affect how much you spend to "cover
up" its weak spots or accent its highlights. Most stressful of all,
the popular venues book far in advance, forcing brides to make the big
decision almost as soon as they set the date.

For that reason, the savvy venue-hunter wants to know what questions
to ask before she walks in the door, much less signs the contract.
Here are a few ideas:

Do you have a pre-set list of caterers I can use, or can I choose my
own?

Some venues -- high-end ones with their own catering staff, or small-
town ones with little competition -- require you to use the in-house
caterers or choose from a small list of "approved" vendors. It can be
difficult to get taste-tests or otherwise put this type of vendor
through its paces. If you're stuck with such a list, search high and
low for brides who have "been there, done that" and can give you their
honest opinions.

Any restrictions on decorations?

Many venues have them, but rules vary widely from place to place.
Common restrictions include: no open flame (or no flame whatsoever),
no tape or tacks on the walls, or no confetti. When linens are
provided, some halls will prohibit the use of pins. Ask if the hall
can provide any decorations themselves, especially around holidays.
Useful centerpiece items such as hurricane lamps or Eiffel vases are
not uncommon.

Can we bring our own liquor, is there a "corkage" fee, and do we need
a license?

If the liquor's to flow freely at your wedding, you'll save an immense
amount of moolah by bringing your own. But some venues prohibit this
and require you to buy from them. Even worse is the venue that says
"yes" to bringing your own alcohol, but charges you a mandatory
"corkage

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