What To Consider When Choosing a Reception Venue

What should you look for in your reception site, aside from that sense of rightness you know you'll have the moment you see the perfect spot?  The site you select for your special occasion establishes the feel, creates the mood and begins your story. That space is one of your most important decisions and the following considerations are vital in determining the perfect location for your celebration.

 

 

 

 

ADEQUATE SPACE

Make sure the area is large enough to accommodate the number of people on your quest list. Wedding essentials (tables, chairs, a buffet, a bar, the band or DJ setup, the dance floor) can take up a lot of space, not to mention your guests. There should be logical places within the space where guests can eat, drink, talk, and dance. See if you can envision where each activity would happen.  If a room is too small to separate into sections accordingly, you may feel cramped. If it's shaped like an S or some other oddball figure, that could compromise your party's flow, as well.

 

 

 

 

OTHER AREAS

Give guests a place to mingle between dance breaks by creating a lounge area at your reception. You may want to have a separate space for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before a grand entrance into the dining area. A bridal suite can offer a wonderful place to change clothes, relax or just enjoy some privacy before, during or after the reception.

 

 

 

 

LIGHT CONSIDERATIONS

Light can make -- or break -- the mood. If you're marrying during the day, make sure your hall has plenty of windows. Who wants to spend six hours in a dark room when the sun is shining? If it's an evening affair, make sure the room's not too dim -- or that the lighting can be controlled for the big entrance, dinner, and dancing.  Try to visit the site at the same time of day that you've chosen for your wedding.

 

 

 

 

MATCH THE MOOD

 If you haven't yet decided on a decorating scheme, look to elements of the room for cues. The site doesn't have to be done in the exact colors as your planned decorations, but the walls flooring, chairs and curtains shouldn't clash or conflict with your party's mood or theme. 

 

 

AMPLE OUTLETS

Be sure to take a thorough cruise around the room to see if it has lots of places to plug things in -- especially if you're partying in a place that's not a regular spot for hosting weddings. Your main user of outlets will be the entertainment crew. Take note of where the outlets are; if their location will force your DJ to spin records in the bathroom, make sure she or he has plenty of extension cords.

 

 

 

 

A PLACE TO PARK

Make sure the site is near a good parking lot, garage, or big, empty (safe) street where it's legal to park. If parking is a problem, look for other ways to get everyone to the party. Can a shuttle bus or vans take guests from the ceremony to the reception? Inadequate parking isn't necessarily a deal breaker, but it may mean spending more time and money to figure out a viable vehicular alternative.

 

 

CONSIDER THE RESTROOMS

Visit every little space inside the building before deciding. The restrooms will be visited often by your guests and do reflect on the ambiance of your celebration. Spacious and well designed restrooms are important.

 

 

 

 

ON SITE EXPERTISE

Make sure there is someone available to help at every level of the planning. An event coordinator or on site designer can be a tremendous help in insuring a successful and stress free planning experience.

 

 

 

 

CATERING CHOICES

Your choice of caterer is one of the most important decisions you will make. The food selection, the service provided and the style of presentation will be remembered. Some reception halls allow your choice of caterers and some do not. Either way, food tastings are essential. You must feel confident in your caterer and the menu you decide upon.