Reception locations book far in advance so you will want to book your site as early as possible. However, before deciding upon where to have your reception you first need to decide on your budget, the date, number of guests and type of reception you want (i.e. formal or informal, day or night, and inside or outside). Once you have made these decisions it is good to ask other couples where they had their reception and how they liked it.

Once you’ve narrowed your selection to a few locations, you will want to make appointments to view these sites. Here is a list of things to look for:

• Is the room large enough to comfortably fit your guests?

• Is there enough parking?

• What is the lighting like? How is the view/decor? Will their color scheme clash with yours?

• How is the room laid out? Are there good spots for a bar, a dance floor and buffet tables (if applicable)?

• Is the location handicapped-accessible?

• What are the acoustics like? Does the place echo? How will the music sound?

During your visit you will want to meet with their banquet manager or wedding coordinator. The following are some questions you will want to ask before making any decisions:

• What are the facility charges?

• Do they provide their own catering and bar services? If so, do they offer wedding packages? If not, with what caterers do they work best?

• Do they supply the tables and chairs and set them up? What about china, silverware, glassware and linens?

• How much access will there be to set up the decorations and table and chairs if it’s not done by the reception site’s staff?

• What are their refund policies?

• What are the extra costs if the reception runs over the specified time?

• If your wedding is outside, is there an alternative location inside in case of bad weather?

It is a good idea to make an appointment to go back to the reception site during another wedding to see how it is handled. You may also want to look at the site during the same time of day that you are having your reception to see how the lighting is.