Choosing A Reception Site IV: Checklist

Your head has been a whirl of darling cafes, grand hotels, quaint bed and breakfasts and to-die-for restaurants. But you've finally found a place that actually made you gasp, and now you're just counting the hours until the big day. So what should be on your last minute checklist?

1. Do A Walk-Through. Swing by your location at least a week before your wedding to double check that you've covered everything. While you're there, verify that you know which staff member will be overseeing your reception. Double check that signs will be put up, or a hostess will direct guests to your event. Also, make sure you've appointed a good friend to serve as emergency contact for the day and distributed that person's number to all your vendors.

2. Setup And Breakdown. Many hotels, restaurants and country clubs only allow an hour and a half to two hours to set up, and even less time to break down. You'll need to confirm your times and figure out how much wiggle room you have. Find out exactly when you can arrive, and what the penalties are if you run long. Then verify with your vendors that they have enough time for all of their tasks.

3. Coordinate Your Vendors. Check with your vendors and verify your final orders. You'll need to send everyone directions, and parking instructions. Then send each person, including your venue manager, a Vendor Production Schedule so that they know what needs to be done and when. Finally, if any vendors must work together, such as the cake designer, caterer and florist, give them a call to make sure they're in contact with each other.

4. Clean It Up. Check out the condition of your location. Make sure the windows are washed and sparkling, the parquet floor is gleaming and the carpets look plush, or ask the venue manager to give things a thorough cleaning. Also double check that the equipment you will need is on site and in good condition. You'll want to finalize the placement of your microphone and speakers.

5. Décor. Ask the venue manager to set a mock table with all your linen and china selections so you can see how everything works together. Also check the lighting at the time of day your wedding will be held. Remember, you want dim lighting to add a little extra romance, not gloomy lighting that will have your guests searching for their supper.