April 9, 2009

Tips for the Perfect Reception

The post ceremony party takes up the most amount of time on the wedding day, about 5 hours.  It’s also most likely the biggest part of your budget.  There are endless details and logistics, not to mention, the menu, cake, beverages and favors.  Relax, here are some of my favorite tips that will help take some of the sting out of the whole process.

Décor

Take a good long look at your location.  Notice specific features, artwork, trees, staircases, notice any areas that you can feature or areas that need sprucing up. More character equals less décor. A blank canvas means you can use your creative palate.  

Don’t reinvent the wheel

A grand ballroom with opulent features does not lend itself to a modern sleek wedding.  It doesn’t make sense to turn a rustic farm into a castle. 

All a glow

Lighting is a key for any event, but to create the right feel, you don’t necessarily need to hire professionals.  There are many different lighting options out there.  For instance everyone looks good in candlelight, use candelabras, and clusters of different size and shaped candles.  You reception venue may even allow you to replace some harsh white bulbs in some fixtures with amber or pink ones.  Even consider different styles of lamps, yes that’s right, I said lamps, just make sure that the there are enough electrical outlets available. 

Choose a style or theme to weave through the entire event

Striking colors, a monogram, a special place, food or flower that is a repeated element will assist in creating a personalized wedding and brings together the feel and look of the entire day.

Conversation any one?

It is frustrating for a guest to have to look around, over or not be able to see or speak to the other guests at their table.  Keep centerpieces and other table décor under 14 or over 20 inches high.  Your guests will be chatting away and enjoying themselves.

The all engaging guest list

Be aware, up to 80 to 90 percent of those invited may attend.  Just a note, the smaller the guest list, that percentage will go up, and the more yeses should be expected because these are usually the people you are closest to.

Get it in writing

Make sure you have signed contracts from all of your vendors and read all the details.  Be certain to review and resolve any and all questions before putting your signature on the dotted line.

Rain delay

Unlike a baseball game, your wedding isn’t going to get a rain delay until the weather improves.  If you're going to have an outdoor wedding or reception, reserve a tent or opt for an alternative location in case some showers pass your way.

In the light of day

Evening weddings will cost you more than daytime celebrations.  You can cut back on or eliminate lighting costs if you opt for a luncheon outdoor event.  It’s possible to even save on food and beverage costs because your menu will tend to be brunch or lunch choices.  To compliment a brunch or lunch your beverage choices will also be somewhat different and less expensive such as lemonade, ice tea,  and less alcohol. 

Consider full service deals

Rental fees and a la carte items can add up fast.  At first, a package that includes things like linens and furniture appears to be more expensive but usually that is not the case.  Be sure to add up and consider everything you will have to rent, chairs, tables, linens, silverware, glasses, etc. and don’t forget that there could be a cost for delivery, set up and pickup. 

Cheers

Unplanned toasts that ramble interrupt the flow of a party and can make people feel uncomfortable. Encourage guests at the rehearsal dinner to make impromptu speeches to express their well wishes. Scheduling the traditional toasts earlier on in the celebration could also help if this is a concern.  

Consider the comfort

Guests will appreciate any added comfort.  Furnishing guests with fans, sunscreen or bug spray for an outdoor event will do a lot for your guests' enjoyment factor.  Provide tissues, hair spray or hand lotion in the restrooms.  Perhaps have a basket of slippers on hand next to the dance floor for those tired feet.  Thoughtful extras will ensure a joyous celebration