Reception Checklist

There is a myriad of details to investigate before committing to contractual agreements for your wedding reception services. Once you've checked off all these points and made your decisions, get in writing everything you expect. THE LOCATION Proximity to the ceremony site Date availability and discount days to conside Rental fee and what it includes Time allowed to decorate the space for the day of the wedding Using the location for a ceremony as well, if desired Whether there will be other receptions that day Number of guests the space will accommodate comfortably Terms of liability insurance Ratio of staff to guests Overtime charges Postponement/cancellation refund policy Gratuities and taxes Escalation clause Availability of valet parking Coat check accommodations Clean restroom facilities Number of security personnel Room for changing Means of handicapped access The availability of a nursery or babysitter FOOD AND DRINK Meal options, from a seated dinner to a dessert only reception Price per guest Special meals to accommodate restricted diets Method of payment A date for a tasting menu and tour of the site with a wedding in progress Dessert table policy Availability of nonalcoholic beer, wine and beverages Top-shelf wine and alcohol vs. house brands Cost of open bar vs. one/two hour cocktail service/or host's per-drink tab arrangement Possibility of bringing in your alcohol and amount of corking fee Supplier of the wedding cake and cutting fee On-site wedding coordinator MISCELLANEOUS: Musicians Florist Photographer Videographer Cake knife/server Food for band, etc. Wedding guest book Gift table Seating Plans/place cards Decorations Flavors List of photos BASIC RENTALS FOR OFF-SITE LOCATIONS: Restroom facilities China Linens/table skirts Restroom facilities Lighting/electrical outlets Heaters and/or air conditioners Bar equipment Chairs/tables Cutlery/utensils Dance floor Glassware Tent