The ReceptionWhen scouting for a reception location, there are a number of factors to consider: Find out exactly what your rental fee includes. How many guests can the establishment comfortably seat? What kind of seating (if any) is provided? Are the tables round or rectangular? How many guests can be seated at one table? Be sure to request a floor plan of the reception area, and determine well in advance the location of your tables (including tables for the gifts and the cake). Make note of the hall's color scheme.
Will yours be the only function taking place at that time? If not, is there the change of any disturbance from other gatherings? How can the establishment ensure the privacy of your reception?
More questions to pose: Can your wedding be held at the reception location? For how long will you have the hall? Is it possible to run over the allotted time? If so, are there additional overtime charges, and when do they kick in?
Some halls offer musical instruments for use by the party (such as a piano); there's usually an additional charge. Run your entertainment plans by the hall's representative: make sure you're allowed the number of musicians you plan on booking, or that they'll allow music played for as long as you've booked your DJ. Make sure there's a dance floor, or at least an adequate space set aside for dancing.
Be sure to ask whether the hall will be properly maintained. Will there be sufficient air conditioning or heating? Does the establishment offer in-house catering, or should you arrange for outside catering? In addition, most halls will provide doormen, parking attendants, and the like. See if your guests will need to pay for parking, and if they have enough space to accommodate your guests' vehicles.
Obviously, you'll want the location to be as attractive as possible. The best establishments will allow you to review staging, lighting, audio, and video needs. Determine in advance whether the hall has any stipulations on your planned decorations (including floral arrangements).
The happiness of your guests is critical. Where will they be located upon their arrival? Will you be able to offer hors d'oeuvres and drinks as they await your arrival? Is there an adequate location for a receiving line? Of course, to ensure that your guests leave your reception thinking it was the best ever, you'll want to find out about the reception place's liquor requirements.
Find out how much of a security deposit is required, and ask about their refund policy. You might also ask about their insurance coverage, in the event that property is damaged or a guest is injured. Make sure you get all of this information stated to your liking in a reservation-confirmation letter.
Book well in advance to ensure that you can book a desired day and time. If cost is more of a factor than time, be sure to inquire about whether the establishment offers particular days or times at a discount rate.
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