Tips for Your Wedding Reception

How many times in your life have you volunteered to plan a party for 300 of your closest friends—with you as the guest of honor?

Your wedding day is likely the only time you’ll be in charge of such a momentous event. Follow a few guidelines and you’ll avoid many inadvertent and untimely gaffes invited by a lack of planning.

 

IF you're having an outdoor reception, have the grounds sprayed for bugs about an hour before the reception begins.

SKIP the huge head table at the reception- share an intimate dinner for two as man and wife or share a small table with your parents or children. This also allows members of your bridal party to sit with their loved ones.

IF you are booking a facility far in advance, make sure they are not planning any major renovations or changes to their facility. This should be noted in the contact.

ASK the caterer or chef to prepare a late night snack for the two of you as the bride and groom usually spend more time with their guest than eating at the reception.

HIRE professional staff to bartender and serve if you're holding your reception at a private location.

INSTEAD of a sit - down dinner, consider having food stations. Each " food bar" can have a different theme, pasta caring station, fruits, vegetables, and sweets.

DETERMINE with your florist what can be taken home from the centerpieces and other floral arrangements.

DISCUSS cake cutting procedures with your catering manger, you want to be sure there is enough cake for everyone. Also , if having ice cream, ask how it is served.

ORDER a tent for any outdoor ceremony or wedding - the weather doesn't always cooperate. It is also possible to heat or air condition  most tents, talk to your supplier about the details.

CHOOSE food at  your reception that reflects your own personal tastes- a sushi bar, a pasta station, or a Spanish tapes reception.

SCHEDULE a tasting to get a feel for their talent in both flavor and presentation of the food, before deciding on your menu or choice of caterer.

WORK closely with the banquet coordinator and your MC to determine the schedule for the evening. Make sure everyone has a copy of this schedule.