Reception at In-Law's House

Knottie39998946

Hi Everyone.  My fiance and I are planning on having our ceremony and reception at his sister's house.  It will be outdoors in their huge backyard.  I was wondering if anyone has had their wedding at a family member's house (especially in-laws!) and has any advice or *warnings*.  We both get along great with his sister, but I could see how some of the planning and details may lead to disagreements or tension!  Just trying to anticipate and avoid that...

lovegood90

How many guests are you having? How big is your sister in law's house? Are you having caterers?

Just some important questions because if you're hosting, say, 100 people in a backyard with no caterers things could get ugly.

ETA: Who's paying for the wedding?

Knottie39998946

She has about 5 acres, and the whole thing would be outside.  We will be renting tables and chairs, etc., a tent if necessary, and have it catered and have a band.  We are also thinking about renting porta-potties so that the party can stay outside.  It'll be about 60-70 people.  My fiance and I are paying for the wedding.

MobKaz

Knottie39998946 said:

Hi Everyone.  My fiance and I are planning on having our ceremony and reception at his sister's house.  It will be outdoors in their huge backyard.  I was wondering if anyone has had their wedding at a family member's house (especially in-laws!) and has any advice or *warnings*.  We both get along great with his sister, but I could see how some of the planning and details may lead to disagreements or tension!  Just trying to anticipate and avoid that...

Have they ever hosted a large event?  Have you discussed parking issues, bathrooms, catering, clean up costs, inclement weather contingencies?  Many items may need to be delivered and set up prior to the wedding day.  Will sister be OK with that?  There may have to be some lawn "damage" to accommodate tables, chairs, parking, etc.  You should expect to have to bring the home "back up to original" appearances. 

Knottie39998946

They actually hosted a family reunion a few years ago (before I was in the picture) so I know their property can accommodate a big crowd and rentals deliveries, etc.  And we have offered to pay for a cleaning service before and after the wedding.  I'm more worried that like if I want things a certain way, I'll come off as being pushy or ungrateful or something.  

Maggie0829

Some things to think about...

1) parking

2) noise ordinances

3) permits - are they needed?

4) rain plan?

5) electricity supply for caterer, DJ, etc

6) bathrooms - and no blue construction port-a-pots

Just remember that this is your FSIL property so she has final say over what does and does not go on it and what can and can not happen.  If you are not okay with this then you need to find another venue.

maeday2

This option comes with more work than a typical reception venue does, in my opinion. 

My reception is at my aunt's home. It will be third one held on her property, so I feel confident in the kinks already being worked out. The attention to detail is extreme though. 

PP's have stated all of the main concerns you need to work out. 

My main advice would be to not put any stress of prepping or expecting your FSIL to do anything and get her a really nice thank you gift for being so gracious.