Wedding Reception Planning

Wedding reception planning is a very important part of the overall wedding planning. There are some issues that need to be addressed in organizing the reception for such an important event like a wedding, which requires loads of mental and financial efforts.

Tables

Seating generally runs for 4-8 hours. In most cases, you will have to rent the banquet hall until a certain hour (say, 11pm or 12 am), and after that time you may be able to extend your party and to pay extra for each additional hour.

Generally, 4 hours are an optimal time for the reception, during which guests do not get too tired or intoxicated. Also, if there are children at the wedding, they can withstand this amount of time with little problem and not start to get restless.

Master of Ceremonies 

Just like children need a clown, adults need an emcee. If there is an active and artistic person in your group, who would agree to fulfill the MC functions at the wedding, that’s good luck. However, even the most energetic guests may have no kick left at the end of the celebration. It’s probably best to hire an MC who will not get tired, who will not get drunk, and who has lots of funny jokes up his/her sleeve.

To select an appropriate Master of Ceremonies, it’s not enough to just look through her/his photo and video portfolio. It’s very important that you also have a good feeling about this person, which can be tested at a personal meeting.

Musicians / DJ

Good music is also an important part of wedding reception planning. The restaurant or the hall that you decide to rent may have their own sound system, and even their own band. You can invite a small band, a DJ, or simply record several CDs with your favorite music – it all depends on your budget and your tastes.

You should have a separate CD with the melody for the first dance of the bride and the groom, or you have to discuss it with the musicians in advance.

Even though the music should, first, suite the bride and the groom, it might be a good idea to have a song or two to please all ages, including children and older people.

Alcohol Calculation

It’s important to calculate the amount of the alcohol required for your wedding, especially if there will be no way to purchase additional drinks.

Usually, champagne and wine are served at a wedding. Some of the stronger beverages served may also include: whiskey, brandy, vodka, tequila, and liquors.

The following may help you in calculating the amount of alcohol and other beverages per person:

– Champagne – 1 bottle for 2 persons.

– Wine – 1 bottle per person.

– Liquor (whiskey, brandy, vodka, tequila, etc.) – 1 bottle for 2 persons.

– Mineral water and juice – 1.5-2 liters per person.

Wedding reception planning, done in advance and in detail, will help you and your guests to have a great reception that you will enjoy and remember.

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