The location of the reception hall is largely dictated by the number of expected guests and the proximity to the ceremony itself. Due to the many uses of reception halls today, and the availability of same, we find some couples first booking a hall for the reception, and then making all other arrangements correspond to that date. Another factor to remember is that each hall can only hold one reception or gathering at a time. So, book real early --- you can always change the date later, if it's not compatible. The seating is important, not only for the degree of formality, but for the ease of seeing the speakers, making toasts, and the speed of transforming the dinner atmosphere to one of partying. Speaking of partying, decorating the hall is fast becoming a profession all its own. There are companies that just sell decorations for weddings and ones that decorate with balloons and designers that create special effects with styrofoam. Another "Touch of Class" is private labeling. Your champagne or dinner wine can be served with a label announcing your wedding. It makes a unique keepsake of your special day. Be professional yourself here, and obtain the booking date in writing. [ back ]