Wedding Bells

So, Where's the Party?

Sure, the ceremony gets top billing, but finding a great reception spot is where you can really let loose.

• Print
• Email to a friend

After your vows are made it will be time to celebrate! And there's no limit to where you can go to party these days. Most couples opt to go the traditional route and host their event at a banquet hall or hotel ballroom. But daring to be different is often a factor in determining where you can go to celebrate with family and friends. A castle or historic mansion would create a stately and elegant affair versus a sporting arena, which would generate a more laid-back and casual atmosphere. Base your decision on the style of wedding you choose to have and make this day all about you.

Helpful Hints on Reception Space:

•Before you choose a reception facility, decide what kind of atmosphere you're aiming for, whether it's elegant or eclectic, romantic or rustic.

•Consider the size of your wedding–with upwards of 100 guests you'll need more than a big space. You'll require sufficient facilities such as parking space, side rooms, cloakrooms and washrooms.

•Rent a restaurant as an intimate setting for your reception and have everything from linens, china and cutlery to dessert and decorating taken care of for you.

•A banquet hall or hotel will provide the same one-stop shopping that includes food, beverages, room set-up and service.

•A hall may or may not have in-house catering available, but will often suggest a list of preferred suppliers. If you have to choose the caterer, select one carefully, ask for and talk to references, compare prices and ask to taste the food once you've narrowed it down to a finalist.

Tips to Save You Money:

•Get married on a Friday evening or anytime on a Sunday–these are "off-days" for most places (Saturdays are usually most in demand) and the reception facility will be cheaper. A Friday evening reception could be a perfect way for your guests to end their week, while a Sunday brunch, lunch or dinner can be refreshingly different.

•Get married in the so-called "off-season" by choosing late fall, winter and early spring. Often reception facility rentals will be less expensive than in June, July, August and September. Find out about off-peak times for specific resorts and hotels.

•Rent a facility where you're allowed to bring in your choice of caterer. It may take a little more legwork on your part, but gives you more options to shop around and decide what to serve for varying prices.