reception questions

suz62984

I'm very new at all of this wedding planning stuff! I'm the only girl in a family of guys and I haven't been around the wedding planning process before.  What are some good questions that I should ask my venue owners/managers when picking a place? Thanks in advance!

MyBFsWedding1

most important would probably be cost, how many people they can accomodate and if you can use your own caterer or if you have to use one they choose. Anything else would be specific to your needs for your wedding, which you would have to have an idea of what you want to do before you can ask those questions.

lolliedollie231

Hi suz...In addition to above, I would also ask if they have a service charge or any hidden fees (my reception venue had a 21% service charge!), if they provide alcohol or if you can bring your own (they may charge a corkage fee if you bring your own), some places also charge a fee to cut the cake if you don't order it through them. Another thing that might be good to know is if the venue does multiple weddings at the same time, if that would bother you. I went to a wedding where there were 3 receptions going on at the same time. It was a little chaotic trying to get people in the right rooms and the brides had to take turns getting pictures in good photo spots. I would also ask about parking (is it valet? is there a charge? will there be enough parking?). Maybe also see if they have any restrictions on decorations. Some places don't allow you to affix anything to walls, etc. I also came across a couple venues that wouldn't allow your reception to go past 11pm because of music/noise. You could also ask about linens. Some places will provide basic linens (white, ivory, navy, black, etc).Hope this helps! Good luck planning!

suz62984

Thanks ladies.  I had no idea so many fees could be involved!

mandapanda78

Hi suz, most places will let you take a look at their standard contract before you sign. Make sure you read and understand EVERYTHING. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Think about the type of reception you want and make sure it will fit within the vendor's parameters. For example, I am using a historic home that does not allow any open flame whatsoever. If I had been dead set on candelight I would have been out of luck, right? Just stuff like that to keep in mind. Good luck!