Reception: The Basics

National BrideWeddingBasics.com - National Weddings, National Wedding Receptions, National Wedding Photographers Login | Join Now! | Advertise | Site Map | Help




Reception: The Basics


By Lei Lydle
Founder and Editor
Last Updated: 11/14/2005 1:38:22 AM

The reception is generally the most fun and most expensive part of the wedding. When you look at how much people are willing to spend on this portion of the event, you might think that the reception is more important than the ceremony!

Picture This! Photography

Don't Forget The Importance of the Ceremony

Keep in mind that the most important part of the event is the ceremony. You are there to get married to the person you love, not to throw the biggest party in the history of your city!

Consider Your Budget and Guest List

Okay, that said, there are a few things you should keep in mind when planning your reception. First, you need to consider the number of guests and your budget. The location you end up choosing will largely be determined by those two factors, as well as your preferences (such as outdoors or indoors) and the availability of the site.

Book Your Reception Site Early!

One thing is for sure, book the site as early as possible. Popular reception sites book up fast, sometimes as much as a year and a half in advance. If you have a particular place in mind, call them immediately. Chances are other brides have also had their heart set on your site.

Get Recommendations

When looking for a site ask everyone you know for recommendations. Obviously if you are using a consultant, he or she will have an abundance of suggestions.


Photo Source: © Picture This! Photography, Atlanta, Georgia

3 Comments Submit Comments...


Guest DWM from NYC says...
Hi, I'm in the beginning stages of planning my wedding. Does anyone have any online resources that they use to find possible reception venues? My sister recommended http://www.eventective.com which she found on Google. It even plots all the spots on a map which is nice.


Guest shunda onissia from atlanta, ga says...
Date is not etched in stone - this will be for a couple who was previously married at the courthouse. Looking for ideas to have an after wedding reception? Anyone with this experience please respond. What did you wear? what was the program - if any - etiquette?

Wedding Date: 10/22/05


Guest Debra from Virginia says...
Hello, no comments, just a question......I have to plan a really quick reception for a suprise elopement, any suggestions on ideas and appropriate etiquette........Thanks, for any help, pinky@villagepop.com


featured: wedding service


Angel's View Wedding Chapel

Beautiful Views from our magnificient Wedding Chapel: Angel's View Wedding Chapel

click here for details...