Inquire if you can bring in a custom wedding cake, such as this one from Sacred Sweets in Greenport.

Southampton - You've read advice from the experts and you've done the research. You've visited a good number of wedding venues, you've found several that meet your requirements and that have availability on your desired wedding date. If you have found the space of your dreams - book it! Chances are though, that you have found more than one space that you both love. So how do you decide which one to book?

The best way to go about it, I've found, is to methodically compare all of the elements that are important to you in the venue:

 • Is the location convenient and accessible to all of your guests, including those that are elderly and handicapped? This is especially important to consider if you are hosting your affair outdoors, such as at a beach or vineyard, where there may be walking areas that could be difficult to maneuver around.

 • Do you like the lighting, carpeting, the dance floor area? If you don't like the chairs, china, and stemware, are you able to upgrade or outsource them?

 • Is the bridal suite large enough to accommodate your entire bridal party or will you be cramped?

 • If you've done tastings, how do the menus compare in terms of presentation, quantity, quality and of course, price?

You might consider customizing china, stemware, linens and chairs, so be sure to ask the venue about outsourcing options. (Colin Cowie)

 • What is the staff per guest ratio?

 • Are there multiple weddings taking place at once?

 • Are you allowed to order a custom wedding cake from an outside vendor?

 • Did you get a good vibe from the catering manager and other key staff members you'll have to interact with up to and on the big day?

 • How do venue contracts differ, and do they stipulate every single item you discussed with the catering manager?

Once you've made your comparisons and you have selected the space, don't hesitate - contact them immediately to book it. Waiting might ruin your chances of getting your preferred date and time. And you will be glad once you've taken care of this most important task, so you can then move forward with the rest of the wedding planning.