How do you actually get clear pricing from wedding venues? (NJ, 12/2026, 125-150, no alcohol)

My fiancé and I just started the venue search for our wedding and I wanted to get some advice

We’re planning a \~125–150 person wedding in New Jersey, ideally December 2026, and it will be fully alcohol-free. We’re trying to avoid venues with tons of hidden add-ons.

Right now the hardest part has honestly just been figuring out pricing. A lot of venues don’t list prices online, and I’m not sure what the most efficient way is to get real numbers without spending weeks chasing people down. Emailing, calling directly, scheduling visits, something else?

Also, any tips for avoiding hidden fees? I’ve heard things like service upcharges (20–25%)

If anyone has:

NJ venue recommendations (especially ones comfortable with no alcohol)

Advice on questions to ask in the first message

Tips for getting itemized quotes quickly

We’d really appreciate it!