Southampton - If you feel it's time to go and start scouting out Long Island venues for your wedding, do prepare in advance. Like everything else in life, it's best to do homework before taking any sort of plunge. This way, you'll be able to make the most of your venue "window shopping," and ask the right questions. So when it comes to reception venues, who better to give tips and advice than celebrity wedding planner, gown designer, author and star of "My Fair Wedding" (WEtv) than David Tutera? David was more than happy to lend his expertise to us for a wedding venue Q&A:

Superstar wedding planner David Tutera, also star of "My Fair Wedding" (WEtv). (Fadil Berisha) .

David, at what point in time should a couple begin looking at wedding venues?

DT: As soon as possible! Once you know your desired general location and overall budget and size, then booking the venue is essential.

Since Long Island is the second most expensive place in the country to get married, what would be a reasonable budget for a wedding venue here?

DT: Reasonable is relative - it all depends on the size of your guest count, exact location, time of year, etc. So it's really up to the couple to determine what they can afford.

Now, are wedding venues able to negotiate on price these days? If so, can you give couples some pointers when negotiating?

DT: There are always a lot of options and every venue is different, and there are a lot of factors that play into the mix as well - peak or off season, etc., and since most venues are independently owned, the negotiating varies. I always suggest working with your vendors and being open and honest about what options you have in working within your budget.

Discuss every detail, such as these exquisite contemporary elements by David Tutera. (Maring Photography)

What are some typical questions couples should ask once they begin visiting potential venues?

DT: There are many important questions. Find out time restrictions like set-up, end time, sound ordinances, etc. What is included and what is extra? What vendors are you allowed to bring in versus which are you required to use? Also, remember to discuss the little details like parking and coat check. Finally, remember that if there's an outdoor area being used, determine what your tenting/rain plan options are in advance. Mother Nature is unpredictable and a bride should have a rain plan in place just in case, and that she is just as happy with as the original.

So what happens if a couple is set on a particular venue, and a particular date for their wedding (their dream date), but the two don't mesh?

DT: There's always creative ways to make it work. The couple should sit down and honestly prioritize what means the most and what works the best, both for the couple and the guests. The answer will then be clear.

Lastly, what do you say to couples who are scared to take the leap - to book the venue? It's such a commitment.

DT: - Booking the venue is just the first commitment to the much larger and more important commitment - the actual marriage itself!

True that! So if you find a place that you are both happy with, and that meets most, if not all of your requirements, it's time to take the leap. You will be relieved to know that one of the most important aspects of your wedding has been taken care of and that you can move forward to the rest of the planning.