How to Organize a Perfect Wedding Reception

by Lamp Lighter Inn

Introduction

This is one of those days that many have been fantasizing about for years, if not decades. Your wedding day, because of all that anticipation and because it celebrates your union with the person you love the most on this Earth, has to be as perfect as possible. And to ensure it all goes according to plan, you must know what to pay attention to.

In this presentation, we will show you how to prepare your wedding reception to truly make of this day a magical experience that will accompany you for the rest of your life.

First Things, First

Before you even begin to plan your reception, sit down with your other half; you've got some important decisions to make first.

Nothing should be determined before you set the date of the wedding. Depending on that date, some people might or might not be able to participate, some locations could or could not be available... Only when you've agreed on the day can you address the second most critical factor: your budget.

How much can you afford to spend? You should definitely set a limit as the prices can quickly add up and blow your budget out of proportions. This will also impact the number of guests you can invite, and so on.

The Location

The first question to ask yourself when looking for a great location for your wedding reception is whether you prefer to have it indoor or outdoor. While the second option might leave more leeway as you wouldn't be limited by the size of a building or its configuration, outdoor receptions will greatly depend on the season.

Favorite spots for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies include:

• Castles

• On the waterfront

• Country clubs

• Parks

• Small farms

CateringUsually, wedding receptions start with a cocktail gathering where

your guests can relax and share a drink before they're asked to take their seat for the main course. When planning your reception, you want to find a caterer who will be able to provide you with options for both hors d'oeuvres and meal.

If the choice of a menu is to be determined in conjunction with your caterer (who should be able to advise you on the best combinations), you still have to decide whether you're going to offer service or buffet meal. Recently, buffet stations have gained in popularity as:

• they allow for more choice

• people can eat as much or as little as they want

• they're more convivial

Deco & EntertainmentOnce you have found your venue, you still need to add some class and character to it. Depending on your budget, you can go as minimalist of as extravagant as you like with the deco. However, be aware that you don't necessarily need to break the bank to achieve great results. One or two well chosen deco touches (like a chocolate fountain or floral compositions) can make all the difference in the world.

Then, you need to plan how you're going to manage the bar and the entertainment for your hosts. Here, you will have to choose whether to serve alcohol or not, and who will be in charge of the music (and possible fun games).

Seating Arrangements

While there are no hard rules concerning seating arrangements, if there is one constant to keep, it is to have a top table where you will sit with your spouse and closest friends and family.

As for the rest of the tables, you can either mix both sides, place your guests with people they know, or leave it up to them to have a seat wherever they like.

Note that your choice of table shape and size will also have an impact on the possible interactions between your guests. With small round tables, everyone will face eachother whereas, with long narrow models, people will only be able to talk to the hosts right next to them.

All-Inclusive Services

Just like with a complex recipe, knowing all the steps to organizing a wedding reception doesn't make the thought of it any less overwhelming.

If you lack the time or simply don't want to risk messing it up (as this represents the most important day of your life and you want it to be just perfect), you can call upon all-inclusive services that will take care of everything and make sure that the reception goes according to plan. Obviously, those services have a cost but isn't peace of mind priceless?

Conclusion

To make your wedding day the most beautiful and magical day of your life, it's not as hard as it may seem; you just need to plan well ahead of time.

By following the guidelines we have shared with you in this presentation, you should have all the tools you need to organize the reception you've always been dreaming of; a reception that will leave a lasting impression on both you and your guests. For better, and only better!

For more information on wedding reception locations, or to book a reception in London, Ontario contact Lamplighter Inn at : http://www.lamplighterinn.ca/weddings