So I thought it might be interesting to do things differently today. Instead of blogging myself, about the ins and out of choosing the right wedding reception venue, I thought I would let a local bridal expert guest blog instead.
Ciara, wedding expert and CEO of Firefly Occasions Inc, has graciously agreed to give her take on how Calgary brides-to-be can pick the right place to hold their reception. It seems like a simple task, but in truth is much more difficult than one might think.
Feeling overwhelmed when it comes to picking a reception location? You just need a few pointers to help you choose a reception location that's perfect for you. Follow these easy steps and you will be well on your way to the wedding of your dreams.
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Ice in Our Drinks Or Ice Sculpture: What Can My Budget Handle?
Start by thinking of your budget. Ladies, keep in mind that while this is an extremely important day, you don't want to be paying for it (literally) for the next 20 years. Narrow your selections down to ones that will be appropriate to your budget and won't break the bank.
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Express Yourself!
Next, think about what kind of wedding you would like to have. Do you want it to be classic, funky, unique? Don't choose a reception venue based on your parents' or your friends' expectations. Choose a location that reflects the personalities of both you and your husband-to-be. Remember that this is your special day and you need to pick a spot that makes you happy and excited.
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Never Judge A Location By Its Cover
With the exception of destination weddings, once you have narrowed down a group of reception venue finalists, you should ALWAYS go for a visit. Don't just trust the pictures and descriptions from the websites as they do not show every aspect of a venue. It is important to go and see the room, the facilities, the area surrounding, and meet the event manager.
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You've Lost That Loving Feeling
Don't feel bad if everything seems perfect but you just don't get a good "feeling" about the place. If you have a bad feeling, then it is not the right location for you, and don't let your fiancé tease you about it because a woman's intuition is never wrong!
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Let's Get Down To Business
You should also feel comfortable with the event manager as you will be working closely with them over the next couple of months. Here are some questions to ask a potential venue:
* Is there a room minimum (a set amount you must spend on food and beverage to use that room) or a room rental charge?
* What time can you get into the room to decorate?
* Can you tear down the next day or does it have to be that night?
* What decorating regulations do they have?
* What is the room capacity with a dance floor and with buffet tables (these things will change a venue's room capacity if you plan on having them)?
* Do you have to use their catering services? Even for the cake?
* Can you bring in your own liquor? Does that mean there is a corkage fee and/or a bartender charge?
* Will they provide all of the tables, chairs and linens? What colors are they?
* What time does your party need to end?
Below are some inspiration photos for brides choosing a Calgary venue. Photos are of our Mid-Nights Summer Dream Wedding that we did at the Crystal Ballroom in the Calgary Palliser Hotel. Calgary’s Shutter Sugar Photography did an amazing job taking the shots.
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