Reception Wisdom

Reception Your wedding day is likely the only time you’ll be in charge of such a momentous event. Following some basic guidelines and a proper schedule of planning will insure a celebration you and your guests will fondly remember:

First and foremost, ask to visit your reception facility during another wedding so you can observe an actual wedding taking place.

Discuss seating arrangements with your coordinator at the reception site. You can seat your guests however you wish—there are no hard and fast rules. Prepare for any surprise guests and last minute changes.
Choose the site and the food for your reception according to the time of year your wedding takes place. Serve food that is appropriate for the time of day as well as the season.
Things aren’t always what you’ve been lead to believe when it comes to food. A buffet or cocktail reception may actually cost more than a sit-down meal. Check menus and packages carefully for what they include and prices per person.
Determine a budget and plan accordingly. Trying to take short cuts usually doesn’t pay off in the end, and can sometimes end up costing you much more. Don’t invite 200 guests when your finances only cover dinner for 75.
Do not require your guests to pay for their own drinks. If you decide against an open bar, consider serving only wine, beer, champagne, mineral water, and soft drinks.
Do not allow the bartenders to put out tip jars. Whoever is paying for the reception should handle the gratuities.
If you are having a master of ceremonies, be sure they are clear on what their role is and what you want to have announced. Discuss these important details in advance.
Have the musicians or DJ play a variety of music so that everyone can enjoy dancing at the reception. Discuss special requests and dances in advance.
Assign a friend or family member to transport gifts from the reception to your residence. Gifts should be placed in a secure room at the reception to prevent loss or theft.
Keep any photo sessions brief, your guests will notice any such conspicuous absence.
Instead of numbering your tables, try naming them. For example, wine lovers may name their tables after varietals, like Cabernet and Chardonnay. A couple that met while foreign exchange students may name their tables after countries or cities they visited together.
Include an RSVP card in your invitation so you can provide an accurate guest count to the reception facility. Choose a date at least two weeks before your wedding, even though you may be updating the list more often