Table décor also adds to the ambiance of the room. Fabrics, lighting, flowers, fountains, arches and props can be used in any combination to provide a one-of-a-kind look. Reception Etiquette: Make no mistake; wedding etiquette is still very much alive. Having good manners is always in style. Your wedding day is your wedding day and you have the right to be happy, but you should remain gracious, kind and hospitable at the same time. • If you invite someone to the ceremony, it is proper etiquette to include them in the reception. • Circulate at the reception; the guests should be one of your main focuses.
Now that You Have the Venue, Let the Party Begin! Wedding receptions are about personality and creativity. Your wedding is not your mother’s or your grandmother’s. It’s not your best friend’s wedding, either. This is your once-in-a-lifetime event—and not an inexpensive one. Take advantage of your time in the spotlight to put together a wedding reception event that really shines. Tips for Outdoor Weddings: Heat, humidity and rain are big considerations if you plan on having an outdoor wedding. Sunset weddings tend to be the most popular when laying out the timeline of an outdoor wedding. Providing tents for your guests to shield them from the sun will be a greatly appreciated amenity. You might even consider renting misters. Having an outdoor wedding can offer great views and scenery for your guests and photos. Heat, humidity and rain are big considerations for an outdoor wedding. While sunset weddings tend to be the most popular, be sure to consider some sort of shade for your guests. You might even consider renting misters. Rental companies can provide everything you could need or imagine to put together the ultimate outdoors wedding. Planning Your Reception: Many reception and banquet coordinators will have a standard preset timeline. Meet with your planner and include, or eliminate, any events that you want or do not want at your reception. Every wedding is special and needs customizing. Most coordinators will accommodate to make your wedding perfect for you.. Reception Décor and Services: Do you want to handle every detail yourselves or hand the job over to a decorating professional? Keep in mind that the decorating will have to be executed on the day of the wedding. Do you want to handle every detail yourself or hire a professional? The first impression of the reception starts at the front door. 92
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• If people bring gifts to the reception, assign one of your bridesmaids or a family member to take them home for you. A Catered Affair: If your reception is going to be held in a venue that does not provide food, consider hiring a caterer. A caterer will be of great value in handling the preparing, cooking, decorating and serving of the food for your wedding. • When you hire a caterer, check to see if the location for your reception offers refrigeration and cooking equipment. • Ask your caterer for references and look at photos from previous parties so you can see and know how the food will be presented. • Make sure you have a written contract with your caterer stating all the details of what they will be doing.