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Finding the Perfect Reception Site

Reception Site Selection

Planning the party of a lifetime begins with picking the best location.

While the ceremony is what actually makes your big day a wedding, it's the reception that will most likely take the bulk of your planning energy - and budget! The reception generally makes up about half of the total wedding costs. It's also the truly festive part of the day, where you celebrate your brand-new marriage with friends and relatives.

Site Selection

The site where you choose to host your reception sets the tone for the entire event. All later decisions, including your invitations, dress, flowers, centerpieces, music and menu, will follow the style and level of formality of the site you select, which is why finding a spot should be your absolute first wedding-planning step - even before your gown. It's a good idea to have an estimated head count before you look at sites, too, since different venues are more suited for different numbers of guests. All places will, of course, have a maximum capacity that you can't go over, but some sites may require a minimum amount of guests, so with a number in mind you can cut out too-big or too-small spots.

When you begin checking out potential sites, note how each location makes you feel the instant you walk in: relaxed, hip, formal, sophisticated. Classy hotels, catering halls and country clubs are obvious places to begin. Their staffs will most likely be professionals with years of wedding experience. Many of these facilities even employ a full-time wedding consultant who can explain your options and help you plan the event, from start to finish.