400+ Guests

heather0711

I'm helping a friend narrow down reception locations...problem is they have ewntirely too many people coming to this wedding. 

400+ guests, probably closer to 500. She does NOT want the Aqua Turf or Ponte Club. Saw Cascade last night, not all that impressed but not off the list. They're getting married at a church in Waterbury in December, so relatively close proxmity is necessary. Also, no country/cottage places, she wants grand ballroom-princess-esque setting. 

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

LaurenDarling

The Waterview in Monroe is huge, and not to far from Waterbury. Has she checked that out yet?

heather0711

I don't believe so, I will put it on the list. Thanks!

calindi

Wow, my first suggestion would be to narrow down that guest list.  Why on earth would anyone need 400 guests?  There's no possible way you can even say hi to all of those.  My aunt had just under 300 guests, and the receiving line was over 2.5 hours long before my Mom shut it down since everyone was getting drunk since the food hadn't been served yet and cocktail 'hour' was going and going and going!  And nearly half the guests didn't even get to see the bride & groom.

Geez, okay... other than that, what about a tented venue?  Branford House won't fit that many people, but it will if you add a tent on the lawn.  I'm sure there are other tented venues that can accomodate that many.  And it's very grand and elegant, though if she wants ballroom she may not like tent.

missmckenzie2

I second the Waterview or even it's sister facilty the Riverview in Simsbury, not sure which is closer to the church....

bianca1993

wow thats alot of poeple.... everyone has different taste and styles.... but i for one think CASCADE is on of the most beautiful halls in CT.... the hardwood floors all those chandeliers in the ballroom.... the grand staircase..... just breath taking....    

amymaysa

The Riverview in Simsbury can accomodate up to 900 if both rooms are combined...so that's a thought. That is A LOT of people, and I think it can be difficult to find a space for that many people, but I'm sure it can be done!

Carebear62584

Woodwinds in Branford can accomodate 600 when they open up the two rooms. 

jennylove810

400 guests.. danggg!

kls114

I think Cascades is gorgeous! Also--Cascades won't fit that many people! Ditto--check out The Waterview....so pretty there!

rswan412

I vote for a tented reception That's a ton of guests- but good for her for knowing that many people!

Soon2BeMrsTing

That's a LOT of thank you notes when everything is over with. Just sayin'!

calindi

I just can't even fathom the budget for that many people for dinner! Even if you get an awesome package for $80 each, then you're still looking at a minimum of $38k for 450 guests! That's not including attire and whatever isn't included in the package - limo, favors, flowers, paper products etc! I mean, that's basically my total budget for 150 people where you have to accommodate 300 extra people! I'd go nuts! To have the same wedding I'm having for that many would cost at least $80k!

heather0711

Sorry it took so long for me to come back, been super busy!

I said the same thing about budget and narrowing the list but hey, what do I know?! Her parents re paying for it, only daughter, money is no object so I guess if you can do it...go for it. 

I will give her all of your suggestions. Thanks!