Wedding Reception Checklist
Where To Begin When Planning Your Gold Coast Wedding
Are you eager to start the process of planning your wedding on the Gold Coast but don’t know where to begin? If so, you’re not alone! Start by finding a marriage celebrant then move onto planning your wedding reception. Before you start worrying about details like flowers and food, read our wedding reception checklist to make your life easier.
Start With The Venue
Once you’ve selected your wedding date, you can then secure a reception venue. However, if you have your heart set on a particular place, your wedding date might depend on when the venue is available.
Either way, you’ll want to make sure your chosen venue offers everything you’ll need and that your vendors will have access to the site when they need it. This means you’ll need to schedule any tours, tastings or walk-throughs well ahead of your big day!
The day before the reception you’ll need to make arrangements to drop off wedding favours, place cards, guest books and other small items that are included in your special day.
Select Your Food & Beverages
If you’re hiring a caterer or chef then you’ll want to schedule the menu tasting well in advance so you can make changes if necessary. You’ll also need to think about whether you’ll offer alcoholic beverages at your reception and whether it’ll be an open bar or guests will pay for their own drinks. Keeping these details in mind, you’ll need to give your food and beverage providers a final head count so they’ll know how many guests to prepare for.
Of course, you’ll also enjoy picking out the perfect wedding cake or other desserts for your reception.
Narrow Down Your Music Selection
Your next step is to hire a DJ, band or musician for your reception. Don’t forget to put together a list of must-play songs, as well as any popular songs you wish to include. If you haven’t already, this is also the perfect time to select songs for your first dance, father-daughter dance and the song you’ll walk down the aisle too.
Hire A Photographer & Florist
Think about whether you’ll want a photographer and videographer then find ones whose style resonates with you, making sure to book their services well in advance.
You’ll also need to hire a florist and confirm the number of bouquets, boutonnieres and centrepieces you’ll need for the reception. This is also the time to arrange for any other rentals you may need such as chairs, a dance floor or a tent.
It’s Time to Start Planning!
Your wedding day is a day you’ll cherish for the rest of your life so I understand that the planning process can be stressful but there are ways to make it easier. Refer back to this wedding reception checklist as you’re making your plans and you’ll be able to stay focused on those important details.
Have you considered hiring a wedding planner or celebrant to help with the planning process? Click here to learn how these services can make every aspect of your big day perfect.