Finding the Perfect Wedding Reception Location

When choosing a reception hall for your wedding, you must remember to be cautious and shop around. There are many considerations when choosing the hall, including size, atmosphere, location, food and acoustics. You will want to keep all of these things in mind as you look around for the perfect spot to wrap up your special day with your family and friends.

Consider Guests

When looking for a reception area, keep your guests in mind. The best place for a reception is close to the location where the ceremony will be held. Many halls, churches, parks, clubs or large houses offer the facilities you will need for both the wedding and the reception.

Ask Questions

Do not hesitate to ask questions of your contact for the hall you are considering for your reception. Even the most trivial questions in your mind may not have been considered in the minds of others. Know how many guests will be attending (or at least a solid estimate) when scouting for a reception location and make sure the venue has the holding capacity- most halls that can be used for this purpose have a written certificate from the fire marshal stating how many people are allowed in the building; make sure you see this before you decide.

Iron Out the Small Details

If the hall seems to big, remember that you will be decorating and the added touches can help make the area look a lot smaller. Ask the contact if they have the furniture (chairs, tables, tablecloths, cutlery, etc.) needed for your reception. Also make sure and ask if they have a staff to set up and decorate or if you and your party will have to do so yourselves.

Think About Catering Needs

Always consider your caterer when choosing the hall. Many halls include kitchen facilities, make sure you are taken on a tour of the kitchen and have an idea of what they can accomplish. Explore their menus and pick the dining that feels right for you. If you are using someone else to do the catering, make sure you bring them along to scout the facilities and make sure they are appropriate.

Keep the DJ Informed

Finally, you will want to have an idea of the auditory capabilities of the hall. Consult your DJ to see if he has done work in this hall in the past. If so, he will be able to provide you with good feedback on how music can sound and where he should set up. Ask if you can look in on a similar event taking place in the hall, so you have an idea of how your own event will sound in the area.

Consider Comfort

Finally, again, do not leave any stone unturned, even if it seems basic. The last thing you want is to go to the bathroom on your wedding day and realize that there is a line up because they are too small, and on finally getting in they are filthy. Check the bathrooms out, for size and cleanliness. Take note of the parking available for the facility. If it is a large venue, ask if there are other events taking place and make sure that they will not disrupt your own special day.

The reception is, for many, the defining part of the wedding, the time when people can let their hair down and truly celebrate your day. Choosing the correct venue for your needs is a key part of the day, and once you find the perfect place your wedding is poised for success!