Reception Checklist

When planning your wedding,set a budget and stick with it. The following checklist will help you keep track of your expenses.

The Location

• Proximity to the ceremony site
• Date availability and discount days to consider
• Rental fee and what it includes
• Time allowed to decorate the space for the day of the wedding
• Using the location for a ceremony as well, if desired
• Whether there will be other receptions that day
• Number of guests that space will accommodate comfortably
• Terms of liability insurance
• Ratio of staff to guest
• Overtime charges
• Postponements/cancellation refund policy
• Gratuities and taxes
• Availability of valet parking
• Clean restroom facilities
• Means of handicap access
• The availability of a nursery or babysitter

Food and Drinks

• Meal options, from a seated dinner to a dessert-only reception
• Special meals to accommodate restricted diets
• Price per guest
• Method of payment
• A date for tasting menu and tour of the site with a wedding in progress
• Dessert table policy
• Availability of non-alcoholic beer, wine, and beverages
• Top-shelf wine and alcohol vs. house brands
• Cost of open bar vs. one/two hour cocktail service or host’s per-drink tab arrangement
• Possibility of bringing in your alcohol and amount of corking fee
• Supplier of the wedding cake and cutting fee
• On-site wedding coordinator

Miscellaneous

• Musicians
• Florist
• Photographer
• Videographer
• Cake knife/server
• Food for band, et.
• Wedding guest book
• Seating plans
• Place cards
• Decorations
• Favors
• List of photos

Basic Rentals for Off-site locations

• Tent
• Chairs
• Tables
• China
• Cutlery
• Glassware
• Table skirts
• Dance floor
• Serving trays and dishes
• Linens
• Lighting
• Heaters and/or air conditioners
• Restroom facilities
• Electrical outlets
• Bar equipment

Information from Tuscaloosa Bridal Directory