Questions to Ask When Choosing a Wedding Reception Location

It doesn’t matter whether you’re having a fancy reception or a simple one – you have a lot of details to work through. There are plenty of things you’ll need to know before you have your reception in order to avoid any nasty surprises. Here are a few of the questions you’ll need to ask any location manager before choosing a wedding reception facility.

1. What will it cost and how will you pay?

2. Do you need a deposit in advance?

3. When will your final head count for the reception be required?

4. Will you need to rent tables, chairs and linens separately, or will they be included in the overall cost of the reception?

5. Will you be charged extra if your guests stay longer than planned?

6. Will your party be the only one there the day of the wedding?

7. If there are other parties, how many will there be that day, and will any of them be happening at the same time as your reception?

8. Does the facility have a liquor license and the ability to serve your guests?

9. Can you bring your own liquor? Will you need to pay a corkage fee to do so?

10. Is there a coat check?

11. How about valet parking? If it’s available, what does it cost?

12. Is there an in-house caterer you’ll be required to use, or can you choose your own?

13. Is there an area for the bride and groom to change if needed?

14. Is there a good place to take formal wedding portraits?

15. Does the wedding reception facility have a dance floor and room for a band or DJ?

16. Will you need to use the house DJ, or hire your own entertainment?

17. Are there any limitations on the type of music or entertainment you can have?

18. Will a location manager be available to help the day of the reception?

19. What are the rules about decorations? Who do you purchase them from – can you bring your own?

20. Is there a backup location for outdoor venues in case of inclement weather?

21. How many guests are permitted in the room?

22. Does the venue provide the cake? If it does not, will you have to pay a cake cutting fee to bring your own cake?

23. Who does set up and clean up? Will you need to do it on your own?

24. If the venue provides set up and clean up, will there be an additional fee for either of them?

25. How long is the reception facility available for your reception?

The answers to these questions will help you make the choice of facility and work out the rest of your budget. Be on the lookout for hidden fees or unusual rules you may not be expecting. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.