|
|
 |
Selecting a Site |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
The site and surroundings you select will make the most powerful impact on your wedding and reception. So spend some time choosing this celebrated, never-to-be-forgotten kind of place.
If you plan to host your wedding and reception at different locales, that makes two important choices! Fancy, casual or in-between, these decisions lay an important foundation for many of your subsequent plans.
As you pick your ceremony and reception spot, remember that site coordinators can become key resources for you. Tap their experience and expertise to enjoy time and money savings. It's a good bet these professionals have "been there, done that" and can give you top-notch wedding industry referrals.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Considerations |
Follow Your Style |
Is your dream wedding formal or informal, traditional or offbeat?
If your wedding will be very formal, your choices are limited to a religious facility, hotel or large private home or estate.
Garden weddings are popular for both formal and informal gatherings. If you choose to wed outside, banish worry over inclement weather by renting a tent. Or secure an alternate indoor location where there's enough room for your guests to be comfortable.
Hotels, restaurants, inns, clubs, churches and community centers usually have facilities for both your wedding ceremony and reception. It can save you from having to hire equipment and then transport it to your reception site elsewhere.
|
Where to look |
Couples get married in all sorts of places, and informal weddings can be as individual as you are. Weddings have been booked in grand old buildings, movie studio lots or theatres, the zoo or amusement park, on boats, on skis and surfboards. Even floating in parachutes. Just remember to book well in advance; another couple might be as creative as you!
Whether you opt for a traditional, religious ceremony site or something off the beaten path, here's a list of sources to help you identify locations for your wedding events:
|
- Local phone book. Start with the yellow pages, where you can look under churches and chapels; synagogues; banquet facilities; clubs; halls and auditoriums; hotels; museums; and parks and restaurants.
- Local parks departments. A parks department administers most city and county parks and historical areas. Ask them which sites are most popular for wedding ceremonies.
- Local libraries and the Internet. You can find lots of information on historic sites across the country as well as any number of interesting and visually appealing locations.
- Historical societies, and local visitors/tourism offices. Here you'll learn about landmarks and otherwise notable buildings.
|
|
 
|
|
|
|
|
| Popular Sites |
| Beautiful surroundings play a role in most wedding fantasies. Are you up on
the most popular sites for weddings and receptions? |
- Religious centers
- Your own home or apartment, or that of a family member or friend
- Private mansions
- Country clubs
- Parks and clubhouses
- Catering halls, especially those renowned for their decorations and food
- Hotel ballrooms or smaller spaces
- Trendy restaurants
- Backyard tents
- Sophisticated gallery spaces and arts clubs
- Country inns, small-town hotels and restaurants
- Party rooms
- Museums and building lobbies
- Outdoor dining halls
- Hilltops, meadows, beaches and other outdoor wonders
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Questions to Ask |
|
How much will it cost to rent your facility? Do I have to be a member of the congregation or club to get rental privileges?
|
| Sometimes a friend who holds a membership can sponsor you. |
What hours are available on my wedding date? |
| If the facility is not "all yours" on a particular date, find out what other events are being held that day. Make sure you have ample set-up and clean-up time between events. |
What are your event rules and guidelines, including restrictions, set-up times and clean-up requirements? |
| Avoid surprises by studying all the rules before booking the site. Make sure you approve of their restrictions on photography, decorating or any other key matters. |
Who is my contact at the site? |
| Meet the site's event coordinator as soon as you can. Establish a rapport early to prevent miscommunications. This professional can be an invaluable source of referrals for other wedding services. |
How many guests will the facility hold? |
| Don't pick a place that won't comfortably accommodate your expected guest attendance. |
How much is the expected honorarium, donation or fee for the site? |
| Find out how much you will pay and when you should pay it. |
Will there be additional reimbursement fees for the officiant? |
| Learn any travel, rehearsal or other fees you need to cover for the officiant. |
What equipment must be rented for my wedding and how much will it cost? |
| You may still be required to pay a rental fee, even though the needed equipment may be located at the site. |
Is pre-wedding counseling required? |
| Religious sites may require couples to attend pre-wedding counseling. Others require you to promise to raise your children in that religion. Find out any commitments you'll be asked to make. |
Can we provide our own catering? |
| You want to be aware of all your catering options. Ask if there are any penalties or service fees involved when using independent Caterers or Cake Designers. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The Contract |
A contract with the site(s) of your ceremony and reception serves as a guarantee of services and fees. It's also a written reference for all agreements made. Be sure these details are covered in your written contract. And remember not to sign anything until you're completely satisfied. |
Your site contract(s) should include: |
- A total cost and an exact line-item breakdown
- Service specifics, including detailed list of everything (tables, chairs and linens, for example) to be provided by site
- All billing details, including deposit amount and date paid
- Payment schedule
- Exact date and time of your event(s)
- Exact location of your event(s)
- Names of site representative who will assist at your event(s) and an acceptable substitute
- Proof of liability insurance and liquor license
- Cancellation/refund policy
- Details of any special requests or agreements
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
I purchased a necklace for our 35th anniversary. I must say that the stone is exquisite. The fire, color and clarity are outstanding.
Alex N. - Peyton, CO
|
For delivery by Friday, May 9th, follow the shipping guidelines below.
