Venue

                 One of the most important pieces for a wonderful wedding is choosing the perfect fit for your reception. Today there are many different options for wedding venues. Tents, banquet halls, home receptions, restaurants, warehouse spaces and barns, just to mention a few.
                 I think it is best to sit and figure out a budget first and to be realistic. From here figure out a guest list. Now I realize you haven't done this before so here is a good idea of cost ( this is an average ) $50- $135 per person. See where your budget fits and how your guest count will work to these numbers, this will help you decide the type of venue you can afford.
                 When choosing your venue see if the facility works for the style of wedding you are wanting to have or if the space can be adapted to work for you. A lot of venues list great information and pictures on line. This will save you a lot time not having to visit all of them. You can also call and ask questions to see if your budget fits this location.
                 Some couples have no problem renting a local banquet hall, hiring a caterer and looking after everything themselves. They would be at the lower end of the equation. Some book an at home reception
with tent and bring everything in. They would be at the middle of the equation. Others want the newest venue in town that looks after everything for them and they would be at the top of the equation.
                There are many things to consider when shopping for a location. Some of these thing are
                                  * parking
                                  * can I bring in my own wine?
                                  * corkage fees
                                  * linen if included, style and colour availability
                                  * washrooms
                                  * on site wedding coordinator?
                                  * can I have my ceremony here?
                                  * cake plating fees if you are bringing in a cake
                                  * plates, cutlery, etc. do they have it?
                                  * liquor licenses do I need to get one?
                                  * can I bring in my own alcohol?
                                  * tables and chairs are they included
                                  * rules and times for set up and take down
These are just a few things to think about. Like I said there are many options today.
                The best planned weddings are the ones that start 1-1/2 years in advance. This gives lots of time to get key vendors in place. When location shopping it is wise to take parents or others that have been through this planning process just to help guide you. Ultimately the final decision is yours. Once you have your location for your reception worked out so many other things will just fall into place.

                All the best finding that perfect location for your wedding day! As always I am just a phone call away and I do not mind giving out helpful information. Enjoy! Lynne x o