Your venue shapes almost every other decision: your date, your guest count, your décor, even your menu. Accra has a wonderful range of options — hotel ballrooms, garden venues, beachfront spaces, event centres and private residences — but they differ enormously in what they include. Before you pay a deposit, ask these ten questions.
1. What is the real capacity for my layout?
A venue that holds 400 people standing may only seat 250 at round tables with a dance floor, stage and buffet. Ask for the capacity for your specific layout, and ideally for a floor plan from a previous event of similar size.
2. What exactly is included in the price?
Some venues include chairs, tables, linen, basic lighting, security and cleaning. Others provide an empty space. Ask for a written list, then compare venues on a like-for-like basis. A cheaper hire fee can become the more expensive option once rentals are added.
3. What happens if the power goes off?
This is essential in Accra. Does the venue have a generator? Is it powerful enough for your sound system, lighting and catering equipment? Is fuel included, or charged separately? Who switches it on — and how quickly?
4. What is the rain plan?
For garden and outdoor venues, ask what happens if it rains — especially between April and July and around September and October. Is there an indoor space, a marquee option, or a covered area? Is there an extra cost, and how late can you decide?
5. Is there a noise curfew or an end time?
Many residential and hotel venues have strict end times for music. Find out when the music must stop, when guests must leave, and what overtime costs per hour. Build this into your programme so your first dance and cutting of the cake are not rushed.
6. Can I bring my own vendors?
Some venues require you to use their in-house caterer or approved list of decorators. Others charge a fee for external vendors, or for bringing your own drinks ("corkage"). Ask now, because it can affect both your budget and your choice of caterer.
7. How much time do vendors get for set-up and breakdown?
If the venue has another event the same morning or evening, your décor team may have only a few hours. Ask when vendors can access the space, and when everything must be cleared. Elaborate décor needs time.
8. What about parking, access and security?
Accra traffic and limited parking can turn arrivals into a headache. How many cars can the venue hold? Is there an overflow area, valet or security on site? Is the venue easy to reach for elderly guests, and are there accessible toilets?
9. What are the payment terms and cancellation policy?
Ask how much deposit is required, when the balance is due, and what happens if you need to change your date or cancel. Make sure every agreement — including anything the manager promises verbally — is written into the contract.
10. Can I see it at the same time of day as my wedding?
A garden that looks stunning at 10am may be in full sun at 3pm, or very dark by 7pm. Visit at the time your ceremony and reception will take place, and picture the guest experience from arrival to departure.
A bonus tip
Ask the venue which planners and coordinators they have worked with, and how previous events went. Venues know who runs a calm, organised event.
Need help finding the right venue?
Venue sourcing is one of the most valuable things we do for our couples. We know which spaces in and around Accra suit which kinds of celebrations — and the questions to ask before you sign. Tell us about your wedding and we will help you find the right place.
