Choosing a Reception Site Selecting a reception site is a matter of personal taste. You want it to be as delightful and reflective of your theme as your marriage ceremony, floral design, and cake. You should feel comfortable with the event manager as you will be working closely with them over the next couple of months.  If you have a bad feeling about the site, then it is not the right location for you. Remember to ask a couple of questions while you are there: 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? • Ask the reception facility if you can observe another reception there so you can see the flow of traffic and the setup.  Your wedding coordinator can help set this up for you.   • Sit down with your fiancé and figure out your wedding priorities.  Sort out what it is that you absolutely must have on your wedding day and what you can live without.  This will not only help you when choosing a reception location but it will help you with all of your other wedding choices as well.  Do you really want a plated meal at dinner if it means you can't afford a champagne toast? • Express yourself. Think about what kind of wedding you would like to have. Do you want it to be classic, funky, traditional or 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. • Once you have chosen a reception location and booked it, you are well on your way to a wonderful wedding. Just remember, no matter where you have your wedding reception, you will enjoy a fabulous evening with your new husband surrounded by family and friends. So start researching venues now! Make a list of the sites you like and get out there and tackle it. The sooner you find a place to get married the sooner that stress will be gone.