From Dates to Cakes: Ten Things Every Couple Should Consider

1. Know your budget!

“Too often a couple will book their venue before they’ve fully worked out the details of their budget, only to discover late –TOO LATE – that the venue is beyond their means,” says Jean Picard, Master Bridal Consultant in Ventura, California. “You don’t want to be forced to choose between backing out and losing that hefty deposit, or cutting back on the rest of the wedding.” Do your research and before you set your hearts on a venue, know what it costs.

2. Choose your date, and do it early.

Banquet halls and hotels do fill up quickly, especially during the wedding season, May – October. Before choosing your wedding and reception site, make sure that the facility is available. And if you are getting married in a church, confirm the date. You may be surprised to learn that there is a waiting list.

3. Friday versus Saturday.

Looking to have an intimate or small wedding? Want to save money? Consider having your wedding on a Friday. Prices are greatly discounted, and halls sometimes offer perks for having the wedding on an “off” day.

Worried about inconveniencing your guests? Don’t be. Most people won’t have a problem leaving work early or taking the day off work to celebrate such a special occasion. An evening wedding and reception may be a special night out for your guests.

4. Open bar at the reception.

Some halls have set regulations for the open bar – closed during dinner, shut down an hour before the reception is over – so make sure to find out the policies.

Look out for hidden fees. Some reception halls charge extra to keep the bar open during dinner, or the entire reception. Read the contract carefully so that you only have to focus on your wedding and not be surprised by an unexpected decision during the reception.

5. Silk vs. Real flowers.

Do you want your bouquet to last forever? Do you care that your flowers will be wilted before you leave for the honeymoon? Both silk and real flowers make beautiful decorations, as well as bouquets. If you want real flowers but you want to preserve them, be prepared to add hundreds of dollars to your bill. Silk flowers may be more expensive upfront but they will last forever, and may ultimately save you money. With silk flowers, you know how they will look, how they will survive the reception and can be a reminder of that special day for years to come.

6. Meet all the people who will be working with you and for you.

From the priest doing your service to the owner at the reception hall, make sure to meet and discuss your ideas.

Find out what’s included and not included in all the packages they are offering you. Ask for a list or a written disclosure. Is the cake extra? Are tips included for service?

Are there special fees for setting up the band? Make sure you read the fine print before handing over your deposit. Ask questions when you meet with people. Remember, it is your special day and your budget. Let everyone know what you want and what you expect. If you’re unsure of something, ask!

7. Location! Location! Location!

Make sure the reception hall is within a reasonable driving distance from the church if you want the reception to follow immediately. You don’t want it to take too long for the guests to arrive. Or if it is a distant drive, then plan accordingly giving guests time to be at the reception when you arrive.

If you’re thinking of taking pictures after the ceremony somewhere other than the church, take the driving time into consideration. You want to arrive at the reception to meet your guests and enjoy all that you have planned.

8. Don’t put money down the night you go see a wedding reception site.

If you fall in love with a reception hall, and you are sure it’s where you want to have the reception, DON’T sign any contracts or put any money down.

“Go home and sleep on it,” suggest Mary Nadolny, who has over fifty years experience in the Banquet Hall business. “You’ll be glad you did!” You need to fully understand all the costs and details and read the contracts carefully. Committing at the moment may end up costing more than you anticipated.

9. Photography.

There are as many wedding photographers as there are wedding gowns. How do you find the right one? First, look at samples of their work. Do you like their style, composition? Are they willing to work with your desires for photos? Compare prices, and find out what is included. Some photographers have a set list of options. If you are looking for more creativity, ask or move on to another photographer.

Make sure you meet with the photographer, tell them what you want, and find out everything from the kind of cameras they will be using, if they have backup equipment, when you can expect to get your photos, and if they include a copyright release with the packages.

10. Shop Around.

Research prices for EVERYTHING, from the reception hall to the flowers. Find the special place that fulfills your vision of your wedding day as well as your budget.

Don’t be intimidated by prices; be willing to negotiate.

The first place you see should not be the only place you see even if it seems to accommodate all your needs. Get a business card, a contract to read, contacts to call, and testimonials from others and keep looking. You can always return with a check to reserve your place for the special occasion.

By: Jessica Dempsey