Wedding Reception - 42 Questions To Ask The Reception Site Manager

When reviewing wedding reception sites, it helps to come equipped with the questions you need answered before making your decision. Elegala.com lists 42 questions to ask when choosing a wedding venue.

Here is an excerpt from the list...

Costs Involved

First and foremost-you will need to determine the cost of holding your wedding reception at the site. Sounds like a given, right? You will discover that most reception sites break down their costs differently, and what may seem to be less expensive may wind up more costly once all of the figures are totaled. Avoid confusion by requesting an itemized list of fees-or take this one with you-and tally the costs of each fee and service you will most likely use for your event. (Have an idea of your guest count beforehand-this will influence the estimated costs) Then you can compare your lists to accurately determine which site is the most cost effective for your needs.

Already confused? Not to worry-we have compiled a complete list of typical costs and fees charged by wedding reception sites. If the facility does not provide one of these services, such as an onsite caterer, factor in the estimated cost of contracting the service from an outside vendor when tallying your total expenses.

Questions to ask:

• What is the facility rental fee?

• What is the cost-for food? (sites typically offer more than one menu package; determine which menu package you will most likely utilize for your wedding reception-and use that amount in determining your estimate.)

• What is the cost-for beverage? (save time by having an idea of what beverage package you would like to serve, whether a full bar, limited bar or non-alcoholic bar)

• If you can hold your ceremony on site, what is the ceremony fee?

• What is the set-up/break-down fee? (some sites charge per chair, others charge a lump sum)

• What is the staffing fee? (including bartenders, waiters etc.)

• What is the overtime fee?

• Is there a fee for security personnel?

• Is there a fee for parking or valets?