Top tips for finding the perfect reception venue

• First thing's first… choose a reception venue that is no more than half an hours drive from the ceremony venue. You also need to make sure it can cater for the number of guests you would like to invite.

 

• Make a list of things that are important to you. For example, you might like the venue to offer overnight accommodation or allow you to have fireworks in the grounds. Chances are you won’t be able to tick every box, but it’s crucial the venue fulfils the majority of what you’re looking for.

 

• Look at your budget. Ask for a detailed costing for everything from room hire to menus, drinks and even service charges to make sure you don’t overspend.

 

• Test it out. It’s important to sample menus before confirming your booking.

 

• If the venue doesn’t have in-house caterers, ask whether you can bring in your chosen caterer and your own wine and champagne. As well as giving you great flexibility, this can certainly save a few pounds. If you can bring in your own alcohol, ask the venue whether they will make a corkage charge.

 

• For a summer wedding, consider having a marquee. As well as being a completely blank canvas that you can decorate to suit your theme, a marquee allows you to bring in your own suppliers. In cooler months, costs rise as you need to make sure a marquee is well heated with proper flooring.

 

• When you make your booking, be sure to get it in writing. And… read the small print. You don’t want to find any hidden costs when the bill comes through!