Choosing a Wedding Reception Venue

Things to Consider When Booking A Reception Site

Jan 14, 2009 Annalise Kaylor

Every wedding reception venue has their own way of running their business. Staying organized and being prepared with questions makes comparing reception sites easy.

Booking a wedding reception venue sounds like it would be a straightforward, easy task. But there are many considerations when comparing wedding reception sites. The bride and groom, and their families if applicable, should begin by determining the wedding date or the possible dates, the budget for the wedding, and the approximate number of invited guests. Doing so will eliminate from consideration the wedding reception sites that are too expensive, too small, or unavailable for the wedding date.

Making A List Of Wedding Reception Venues

One of the best ways to find the right wedding reception venue is through word-of-mouth. Talk with brides and grooms who have recently tied the knot, or interview friends and family who have recently attended wedding receptions in the town where the wedding reception will be held. When the same venue is recommended more than once, add it to the wedding reception venue list.

The internet is a wonderful source of wedding reception venue information. Not only can brides and grooms search by the geographical area, most reception venues show photos on their website. Additionally, they often answer many of the common wedding reception venue questions on the site, eliminating extra steps for the bride and groom.

Make An Appointment To See A Wedding Reception Site

Most wedding reception sites welcome the opportunity for their wedding coordinator to give the bride and groom a tour of their venue. While some sites may allow walk-in visitors, it is always best to call ahead and make an appointment. Not only does this ensure that the venue is available for a tour, it allows the bride and groom to have the uninterrupted attention of the wedding co-ordinator.

Questions To Ask When Choosing A Wedding Reception Venue

In order to compare each of the wedding reception sites equally, it is helpful to have a prepared list of question for the wedding venue's coordinator. The following is just a sampling of questions which should be considered:

  1. What is the cost of the venue?
  2. How many hours of rental is included in the cost?
  3. Does that cost include a wedding coordinator?
  4. What is the cost for each additional hour?
  5. Does the cost of the wedding reception venue include tables, chairs and/or linens?
  6. Does the cost include the necessary staff of the wedding reception site?
  7. Is there a caterer available in-house?
  8. If there is not a caterer, does the venue require use of a caterer on an approved list?
  9. What other services, such as a dance floor, lighting, or sound are included in the price?
  10. Are there additional charges for setup and cleanup of the wedding venue?
  11. What are the restrictions associated with decorating the reception site?
  12. Is alcohol allowed to be served on the property?
  13. Does the venue supply the bar? If the caterer supplies the bar, is an additional license necessary?
  14. Are the bride and groom responsible for any additional event insurance?
  15. Are there any noise restrictions, such as how long a DJ can play wedding music or how long a and can perform?
  16. What is the parking situation for the guests?
  17. Are there any discounts for hotels in the area for wedding guests?
  18. When will the decorating be able to take place?

When choosing the wedding reception venue, the bride and groom should objectively review their list of questions. The wedding reception site should accommodate their guest list comfortably and fit within the budget. Paying close attention to the costs, both upfront and hidden, will ensure that the bride and groom make an educated decision about their wedding reception site.

The copyright of the article Choosing a Wedding Reception Venue in Wedding Planning is owned by Annalise Kaylor. Permission to republish Choosing a Wedding Reception Venue in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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