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Narrow down your choices to three

Look online for reviews of the sites you are leaning toward. And ask your planner (if you have one) whether they have strong feelings about a particular venue on your list.

Call sites to make an appointment, but first confirm the following:

  • Wedding date availability. Many reception sites have a limit on the number of weddings they can host in a weekend
  • Appropriateness, pricewise. Ask their typical price range and/or cost of the average wedding they host
  • Customization capabilities. If you want to bring in decor, food, or alcohol, confirm that the site will allow it.

Interviewing the site managers

Think of the site manager as the gatekeeper of your reception site. Unless you have a wedding planner, he or she will be responsible for helping you secure all the details of the day—or at least the delivery of those details. At your meeting, you'll want to check out the site itself, and also assess the professionalism of the reception manager and staff. Communication and comfort should be deciding factors as well.

Bring the following with you to the interview:

  • Reception site address, phone number, contact name
  • Your budget (at least a general guideline)
  • The list of questions below and a notepad so you can refer back to their answers to make your final decision

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