Start with the working format, not just the advertised maximum capacity. A venue that lists 300 guests may hold far fewer once you add a stage, registration desk, buffet line, production control and clear circulation routes. For meetings and training, specify whether you need boardroom, U-shape, classroom, cabaret or theatre seating. For dinners, calculate banquet tables together with the stage, dance floor and service aisles.
A useful quotation should separate room rental or package price, food and beverage, AV equipment, service charges, taxes, parking and any minimum spend. It should also confirm the exact function room, setup time, event hours and cancellation terms. Sharing the date, 20–3,000-pax range, preferred area, budget band and non-negotiable requirements in one brief lets venues quote on the same basis and makes the shortlist easier to compare.