Banquet Hall vs. Hotel…The Reception Dilemma

So you just got engaged, you picked the big day, and now it’s time to plan the reception. Banquet facilities and hotels are the most commonly used sites for a reception. But which will fill your specific needs?

All Inclusive

Hotel packages can include everything but the kitchen sink, from the chairs to the linens, and to catering. That means you put your desires in the hands of the planners making choices among the options that the banquet facility or hotel provides. This takes some of the decisions concerning details out of your hands and can provide a more stress free event.

“Most people choose hotels because they’re full service. It’s a matter of convenience,” said Tanya Simbari, President of Cordially Invited of Pittsburgh.

Hotels may or may not include flower arrangements, or details such as place cards. But they do usually provide the centerpieces, and other decorations for the reception. Most couples want some options to add personal touches and these can be negotiated with the hotel planners.

A special perk to using hotels are discounts to family members and the wedding party for accommodations before and after the reception. At some hotels, the bridal suite is included as part of the package.

“The location for hotels is usually better (closer to freeways, airports),” says Richard Markel, President of Association for Wedding Professionals International. “And rooms for guests coming from out of the area may be discounted.”

Another detail that you don’t need to think about.

Or Have It Your Way.

Some banquet halls just provide the space giving you the option to choose everything including ordering the linens, chairs, tables, etc., while some will provide the basics but leave the rest to you. “That can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars,” said Tanya Simbari.

You get to choose the decorations, centerpieces, and catering. Every detail is your decision making the event a personal expression of your special day. And having control of details may help with the reception budget.

“Much depends upon the style of the wedding, the bride’s budget and number of guests. The rates can vary greatly by location, day of week, services required etc.,” says Richard Markel.

Banquet halls sometimes have their own caterers on site. If you choose your own, check to make sure there is a kitchen available for the caterer. In addition, most halls are BYOB giving you the option of choosing and buying your choice of beverage.

“Nine times out of ten banquet halls are BYOB. It can save you money but it’s a big hassle because you have to make sure you have enough so you don’t run out of alcohol,” says Tanya Simbari.

Whichever choice you make, Banquet Halls and hotels are in the business of providing you with the options for a wonderful reception. Whether you want to relax and have the reception planned for you or you want to decide all the details, you are sure to have a memorable day.

By: Jessica Dempsey