What Questions Should You Ask Site Managers
Choosing the perfect wedding and reception site is a crucial decision that can make or break your big day. With so many options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right questions and preparation, you can ensure that your site choice aligns with your vision and needs. In this article, we'll provide you with the top 18 questions to ask site managers when visiting and reserving wedding and reception sites, so you can make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls.9 - 12 Months
Visit & Reserve Wedding & Reception Sites
Find your location fast. Your choice will define your wedding style and dictate most of your planning decisions. Try to book at least a year in advance for the most popular places, a year and a half (or even two years) is not too early. Also, make sure you have a good idea of the headcount before you begin looking; a site for fifty is completely different from one to five hundred. If your caterer comes with your reception site, make sure you interview them before you make any final decisions. When to start looking at reception space
Top 18 Questions To Ask Reception Site Managers
1. Is the site available on your date (or a date acceptable to you?) and are there any events scheduled before your event?2. How many hours will you have the site? Are there overtime fees and how will it be calculated?
3. Are outside vendors (caterers, florists, etc.) allowed or must you use in-house staff? (Determine if food service is included in your locations contract)
4. Does the site have a liquor license? Can you BYOA
5. Can you see sample floor plans and/or visit when the room is set up for a wedding? Where does the band usually set up, buffet, and so on?
6. What’s the staff-guest ratio? (Use your common sense here - one or two waitstaff can’t manage a wedding of 200 guests)
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8. What will/can the facility provide?
- Cooking facilities
- Tables, chairs
- Linens, dinnerware
- Dance floor, tent
- Additional lighting
10. Is there adequate lighting? Who will control the lighting during the reception?
11. Are there any restrictions or rules about entertainment, decorations, and such? What about the dress code?
12. Are the bathrooms clean? Are there attendants? Do you need to tip them?
13. Is there ample parking? Are there attendants (and do you need to tip them)?
14. Will there be other weddings on the same day or at the same time?
15. Does the site have liability insurance?
16. Will the manager be present to oversee your reception to the end? You may need to hire a day-of coordinator.
17. Ask yourself: Is the manager flexible and willing to accommodate you?
18. If necessary, is there good security (and do you need to tip security people, or vent bring them in yourselves)?
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What Questions Should You Ask Site Managers
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding and reception site, there's no room for error. By asking the right questions and getting clear answers from site managers, you can ensure that your special day is everything you've dreamed of. Remember to prioritize your needs, consider the logistics, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification or special requests. With this list of top questions in hand, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and create a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
About the author: Keren Michele, CEP, leads the planning team at K’Mich Event Planning & Consulting. With a flair for creativity in organizing one-of-a-kind weddings and events, she is passionate about providing valuable ideas for couples as they plan their special day.
Updated: January 12, 2022 | Updated: May 29, 2024
