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How to Plan the Perfect Wedding Reception

Your wedding day is the perfect chance to share your commitment
and connection with your closest loved ones.

planning the perfect wedding reception

There are many details that need to come together when looking at how to plan the perfect wedding reception. However, putting together a wedding that embodies your personal style can be easier than you think.

At Cornerstone Weddings we’re proud to help our couples say ‘I do’ in style! We have plenty of experience creating the perfect day. If you’re celebrating a new engagement and are wondering how to get started planning your nuptials, below are some of the top wedding reception tips to keep in mind.

Remember the Big Picture

Whether you’ve had your dream wedding in mind since childhood or are new to the idea of planning a wedding, you’ve likely discovered by now that a wedding is the sum of many parts. From dresses to catering and venues for the ceremony and reception, there’s no shortage of things to keep track of! Somewhere between the “Yes” and “I do” some people start to lose sight that what matters is celebrating your commitment. No matter what your style or budget is, remember that your reception is ultimately a celebration of you and your spouse becoming a family. While there are plenty of trends and guides to follow, focus on creating an environment that reflects the joy of your union!

how to plan wedding receptions

What Makes a wedding Reception Special?

While your wedding ceremony is the perfect way to share your love and commitment by officially reciting vows, the reception is your chance to cut loose and celebrate! Wedding receptions allow your guests to share your day with you in a more social setting, as well as mingling with each other over drinks, food, and entertainment. A well-planned wedding reception will leave your friends and family with fond memories for years to come, and is a great way to say “thank you” for being a part of your special day. In order to make sure your festivities go off without a hitch, there are a few core details you’ll want to consider early on.

planning the perfect wedding receptions

Making The Transition From Ceremony to Reception

Regardless of whether you have separate venues for your wedding and reception, one important aspect that couples can easily overlook during the planning process is ensuring a smooth transition from ceremony to reception. Like any important event, timing and direction are crucial to success, even if your guest list is on the smaller side. Planning ahead will save you, as well as your guests, stress and ensure that everyone enjoys the day as it unfolds. Key factors to consider include:

wedding Venues:

One of the first and most important aspects of planning your reception is finding your wedding venue. Choosing the right location ensures everyone will be comfortable and able to enjoy the festivities in style. To make sure you snag your dream spot as well as your perfect set up, you’ll want to:

Book your wedding venue early!

Popular spots fill up fast and can require as much as 18 months notice to secure your date. If you have a specific location in mind, make sure contacting the venue is at the top of your to-dos.

Keep Capacity and Guest Needs In Mind

Your guest list will play a large role in helping to decide whether a venue is the right fit for your reception or not. Too much space can leave the room feeling empty and gaunt, whereas too many guests in a smaller area can be uncomfortable and create a hazard. Choose a venue that gives your wedding party enough space to move with ease to avoid your guests feeling cramped.

Another key question to have in mind when selecting your venue is whether or not your guests have any accessibility needs. Elderly guests, as well as those that require a wheelchair or other devices to navigate, may need access to an elevator, or assistance navigating steep stairs etc. Address these factors with any potential venue prior to book to avoid any complications later on.

canmore weddings

How Will Your Guests Get From The Ceremony to Reception?

If both areas are within the same complex, this may be easy, but if you’re planning two separate sites for your celebrations, it’s important to make sure this is clearly communicated. Make navigation easy for your guests by providing maps and directions, including any relevant details for parking, accessibility related information, and more. Take into account any challenges that may hinder transportation for your guests, and be sure to find suitable routes and options for everyone. Bear in mind that challenging venue changes may also complicate things for your service providers (photographers, florists, etc.) and should be taken into consideration prior to booking a site.

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