Looking for the perfect meeting venue but not quite sure what you should be asking? We’ve compiled some key questions to help you make your final decision.

1. What sets your destination apart?

This is a broad, open-ended question that gives the prospective venue to wow you. It is also an opportunity for them to discuss their unique value as a destination.

2. How can we make the most of the destination?

Again, knowing about your audience and meeting goals will help the venue understand what’s most important to you. If you don’t provide this, you may receive a generic pitch and that’s not helpful to you or the destination.

3. Are there local experts we should be tapping into?

One of the reasons people attend events is an interest in increasing knowledge and meeting new people. This question gets to the heart of both. Not to mention, makes the event planners job easier. Local experts provide different perspectives and knowledge sharing opportunities for your guests.

4. What support can they offer when your event is in the city?

Sure, an event planner can go it alone but it helps to have someone with an intricate knowledge of the city, its culture, and its people who can make the necessary introductions and facilitate the planning process.

5. What’s new with the city?

You may have planned an event at the destination you’re considering before but many cities are currently undergoing revitalization and a few years makes a big difference in their offerings. When selecting a destination, it’s important to find one that matches the needs and interests of your audience.

6. What services do you offer that can help us save money?

The venue may have access to cost-saving ideas regarding navigating the infrastructure of the area, like transportation connections to/from airports and other general logistics such as public transportation discounts.

7.  Will you put me in touch with past conference or event planners who have hosted in your city?

Good venues should have a long list of organizations they’ve worked with. Try to select a past group that has a similar audience to yours or is of similar size. It’s best to compare on equal ground.

Happy planning!