One Jimmy Snyder, food and beverage manager at Manresa Castle in Port Townsend, has more than 20 years of experience planning and preparing for wedding receptions and other events. He says “relax” is the first advice he gives to couples when it comes to planning their wedding reception.
Couples should remember that the reception is the most expensive part of the wedding day. It is also where they will spend the most time visiting and sharing their happiness with family and friends at the start of their new life together.
“Start planning your reception as early as possible, to ensure a calm and relaxed wedding day with no unwelcome surprises,” Snyder said.
Choosing a place to hold your reception is the first step. Then, making sure you know what is included and what is not is the most important part of the process.
“Most venues include little except for the room,” Snyder said. Always get a written copy of all items and charges for the rental cost of the facility.
A tip for saving time and expense is to look for places that include all set-up, clean-up, chairs, chair covers, tables, linen table covers, linen napkins, place settings, silverware, glassware and cake service in the facility rental fee.
“Most places charge for everything on top of the facility rental fee, from each coffee cup to each chair cover and cutting your cake,” he warned.
Another important tip, he said, is to look for places that only host one wedding per day. When a wedding site is hosting weddings like a production line, your wedding cannot receive the special attention it deserves. For a much more relaxing, stress-free reception, there should be no pressure on your party to hurry up and leave.
Other tips from Snyder’s years of experience:
—Make sure the location can accommodate all your guests.
—Find out if there is a required tip and how much.
—Get menus and beverage items as separate quotes.
—Know the alcohol policies from the legal aspect and the facility’s policies.
—Find out if there’s a minimum amount you must spend.
—Know the refund policy for your deposit, if you have to cancel for some reason.
—Make sure there are vegetarian food options and children’s meals available.
—Ask what date the final guest count is required.
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