How to Choose a Wedding Reception Venue
by Rebecca Sherman
Outdoor Receptions & Tents
Alternative ideas to the traditional reception site list can include city, county and state parks, or one’s own backyard! While some parks have shelters available in case of inclement weather, others rely on the rental of tents as shelter. (Since each park has their own restrictions and rules, it is vital that the couple knows well in advance, what they can and cannot do).
The use of a tent combines the feeling of the great outdoors with protection from the elements. Tents come in a variety of styles and can play host to a casual event or elegant gathering. Rental companies can supply beautiful white tents with French window sidewalls, dance floors, lighting, tables, chairs, fountains and more to provide a breathtaking atmosphere for any celebration. Tents are available in many sizes; some can even accommodate over 2,500 people! Professionals in the tent rental business can help choose the size and style that will be best for the event.
The great outdoors also provides many options in food choice from picnics to formal sit-down dinners. Caterers can be hired or the do-it-yourselfer can turn to rental companies for food service equipment and portable bars.
When choosing an outdoor venue there is one more thing to keep in mind, the need for restrooms. Some companies that carry portable restrooms will rent them for special events. Companies that specialize in the business may surprise many. Their units are clean and can come equipped with flushing toilets, sinks, mirrors and lights, providing all the conveniences of an indoor facility outdoors!
Catering
Indoor or out, reception guests look forward to food and refreshments. And indoors or out, professional caterers offer a full range of culinary delights and services. Formal dinners, buffets and brunches can feature a variety of tasty cuisines. Hors d’oeuvres, salads, breads, desserts, pastries and even pig roasts are available for reception fare. Caterers today can satisfy the tastes of any couple, not only for receptions, but also for rehearsals and showers.
Many facilities may be under contracts with specific caterers. This means that when a reception facility is chosen, the facility may dictate who will provide the food. If a facility is chosen that lets the couple choose their own caterer; there are a delectable variety of caterers to choose from.
Caterers can be found in the phone book, online, at wedding shows and by asking friends and relatives for their suggestions. Word of mouth definitely has meaning here. When calling around for prices and menus, a couple should also ask about sampling before making a final decision. Some caterers specialize in the business, while others can be part of a restaurant or food market who will go off premise to cater. With such a variety to choose from, there is certainly something for everyone’s taste!
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