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Event Planning Checklist: Questions to Ask Before Booking

a room filled with furniture and vase on a table

Private Event Planning Checklist: What to Ask Before You Book a Venue

Choosing the right venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a private event. Whether it’s a corporate meeting, wedding weekend, birthday party, or bachelor celebration, the space you select sets the tone for the entire experience.

To make the process easier, here’s a checklist of must-ask questions—plus examples of how Clique Hospitality’s venues in Las Vegas, San Diego, and Newport Beach check every box.

Step 1: Ask About Capacity and Layout

Why It Matters
Your venue should comfortably fit your guest list without feeling too crowded or too empty. Consider whether the space allows for flexible setups like seated dinners, cocktail receptions, or presentations.

Clique Venues That Work

  • Lionfish, San Diego – versatile layouts for business dinners or social gatherings.

  • SET Steak & Sushi, Newport Beach – refined dining with private and semi-private options.

Step 2: Confirm Food and Beverage Options

Why It Matters
A great menu elevates any event. Ask if the venue offers customizable food and drink packages that match your theme or dietary needs.

Clique Venues That Work

  • Amaya Mexican Kitchen, Las Vegas – bold, shareable dishes perfect for lively groups.

  • Serea, San Diego – ocean-to-table menus ideal for upscale seaside events.

  • Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca, Las Vegas – Italian comfort dishes and a sunny patio atmosphere.

Step 3: Understand Technology and Amenities

Why It Matters
From AV equipment for presentations to sound systems for DJs, the right amenities ensure your event runs smoothly.

Clique Venues That Work

  • The Pool House, San Diego – rooftop lounge with built-in sound and lighting for private parties.

  • Tailgate Social, Las Vegas – oversized screens for watch parties or sports-focused events.

  • Rouge Room, Las Vegas – intimate space with custom lighting and music capabilities.

Step 4: Ask About Privacy and Buyouts

Why It Matters
Some events require exclusivity. Always ask if you can book a full buyout or reserve a private area to keep your event intimate.

Clique Venues That Work

  • Wax Rabbit, Las Vegas – hidden cocktail lounge ideal for small, private groups.

  • Eight Lounge, Las Vegas – cigar and whiskey lounge with semi-private areas.

  • The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego – historic property offering private gardens and dining rooms.

Step 5: Consider Location and Accessibility

Why It Matters
Convenience matters—especially for guests traveling in from out of town. Look for venues close to hotels, airports, or major attractions.

Clique Venues That Work

  • The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails, Las Vegas – centrally located at The Cosmopolitan.

  • Lionfish, San Diego – in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.

  • SET Steak & Sushi, Newport Beach – inside Pendry Newport Beach, steps from luxury accommodations.

Step 6: Clarify Event Support and Planning Services

Why It Matters
The best venues come with teams who handle the details—menus, staffing, décor coordination—so you can focus on your guests.

Clique Advantage
Every Clique Hospitality venue includes expert event planning support, ensuring your private event is seamless from start to finish.

Book Your Private Event with Clique Hospitality

From rooftop lounges in San Diego to speakeasies in Las Vegas and oceanfront dining in Newport Beach, Clique Hospitality’s venues check every box on the private event planning checklist.

Book Your Private Event Today