Restaurants: Perfect for Wedding Receptions

Weddings can be expensive, which is why in this economy many brides are downsizing their wedding plans. If you have decided to have a smaller, more intimate wedding, you may want to think about having your reception in a restaurant. Finding the ideal facility to satisfy everyone's tastes can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of effort and careful planning, your special day will be perfect.

After you have determined how many guests will be attending, try to narrow your choices down to restaurants that can handle large groups. If you use the phone book in your search, look under the restaurant section for establishments that advertise the availability of banquet rooms. This may include intimate alcoves for smaller groups or separate wings or rooms for larger ones. If you have already decided on a venue that does not cater to large parties, give them a call anyway and ask to speak to the manager to discuss your situation. In some cases, you may be able to buy out the entire facility exclusively for your group. You will have to agree to spend a certain amount of money for your meals, which is usually an average of what they normally make on that particular evening. An automatic gratuity of about 20% will be added to the bill, which is standard practice for groups of more than eight people.

As far as the food is concerned, you can usually customize this for your needs. For example, you could pick three or four entrees for your guests to choose from, which could then be listed on the menu without prices. You may decide to have a fully hosted bar, which means that you will pay for any alcoholic beverages consumed by your guests. If you cannot afford that expense, you may want to consider paying for several hours of a hosted bar, after which time your guests would have to buy their own drinks. Whatever you do, however, do not skimp on the champagne, as the champagne toast is an important part of every reception. You can find good quality yet inexpensive champagne in most grocery and liquor stores, and you can always opt for sparkling wine if you really have to cut corners.

Having your reception in a restaurant usually means you will not have to spend any money on decorations, since most restaurants have a neutral yet attractive décor already. In addition, you will not have to rent tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware as that will be included with the meals. Find out what the policy is toward bringing in flowers or any other specific decorations you want to add to personalize your reception. Take note of any special amenities the venue has to offer so you can maximize the experience. For example, if it offers a great view of the city skyline, have your cocktails on the patio or balcony. If you want to provide a DJ for dancing, make sure there is enough floor space to do this, as the number of wedding guests they can comfortably fit on the premises is not the same as the maximum occupancy.

Having your reception in a restaurant might be the perfect solution for you, especially if you are on a tight budget. Research the available restaurants in your area to see if this will work for you.