Weddings > Ideas & Advice > Unusual Reception Sites

Unusual Reception Sites

If you're looking for something more offbeat or unusual, the sky's the limit.

As couples seek more personalized celebrations, wedding-venue possibilities have increased. Places that had never dreamed of booking a wedding before are opening their doors to the experience. Consider hosting your event at one of these nontraditional choices:

An elegant or unusual restaurant
A bed and breakfast
A historic building, mansion or estate
A botanical garden
A vineyard or orchard
A museum or art gallery
A zoo, planetarium or aquarium
A fairground
A yacht
A dude ranch
A ski resort
An urban loft
A theater
A municipal park or beach
A lighthouse
A sports arena
On the grounds of a private school or college

An important note to keep in mind: While some sites offer all-inclusive packages that cover the cocktail and dining rooms, food and beverages, cake and staff, others may quote a price that includes nothing more than the space itself. These locations, from a wedding on the beach to a reception in your own backyard, may call for you to coordinate and pay for all necessary equipment. This could include a tent, tables and chairs, china, flatware and glassware, serving trays and dishes, linens, a dance floor, lighting and electrical outlets, heaters or air conditioners, restroom facilities and bar equipment, not to mention a staff to cater to your every need. The costs of a "simple at-home wedding" can add up fast if you're not careful, so plan accordingly.

Ask the Right Questions

As you and your fiancé look at various sites, here are some questions to keep in mind:

• Does the decor suit our wedding style?
• Is the room big enough for our number of guests? Is there a minimum that will be charged?
• Is the dance floor large enough and well-situated?
• What's the space like for the band or DJ?
• Does the kitchen look clean and well-maintained?
• Is the staff friendly and helpful?

If answers to the above questions are satisfactory, it's time to delve a little deeper with the site managers:

• Are there brochures or other printed information I can take home, or do you have a website?
• Can I see a sample copy of the contract?
• Are your insurance and health department certifications up to date?
• Do you have references I can call?
• Is there a rental fee for microphones and other equipment?
• How much time is allowed for set up and clean up?
• How many weddings do you accommodate at once? If more than one, how will my guests be directed to the right place?
• Are the restrooms adequate for the number of guestsŐ Is parking sufficient and convenient?
• Is there adequate heating or air conditioning?
• What is your policy regarding valet parking, coat check and restroom attendants?
• Are gratuities for the maitre d', wait staff and bartenders included in the fee?
• Are any extras included, such as the cake?
• What basic decorations are provided?
• Is there a private room for the bride to change in?
• When will you need a final head count?
• What is your payment schedule?

When you make your site choice, make sure that every detail concerning costs, timing, and exactly what you're entitled to is outlined in the contract.

Smart Reception Site Selection

In picking a site, don't overlook the practical details. The decor or the views might be drop-dead gorgeous, but they won't save the day if there aren't enough bathrooms or parking spots.

Make sure there are no hidden fees, like overtime or cleanup charges.

If you're considering an unusual reception site, make sure the facilities are adequate for the caterer - and don't forget the added expense if, say, you'll need to rent an extra tent for the caterer's equipment.

Planning a Harmonious Ceremony

• Make sure the music you choose for the processional is appropriately paced. You don't want to rush your grand entrance because the beat is too quick.
• If you're having a loved one sing a special song as part of the ceremony, make sure he or she gets to practice in the ceremony location. Acoustics in a church or other large space can be drastically different than in a smaller room, and you want to make sure the song will be heard.
• Do pick something celebratory for your recessional music. That walk back up the aisle will be your first act as husband and wife, and trust us, you're going to feel like dancing!