A few weeks ago, I met with my florist and we talked about what I want (I'm not going to give everything away yet... you'll have to wait for the photos). We have found a marriage commissioner to marry us (pretty important!) and we met with and booked a fantastic photographer who I am VERY excited about! Our invitations will be ordered in a few weeks and we have discussed the menu with our caterer and have a tasting on December 8th (having someone cook you great food to try is always one of the best parts of wedding planning!).
On the weekend, we went back to the venue to take a look at it again. We last saw it in May when we were still searching and I wanted to go back and look at it knowing that this is definitely where we will be hosting our friends and families. I came armed with lots of questions and got some good answers and a few that I didn't want! I found out that due to regulations I wouldn't be able to have the DJ and dance floor where I had initially thought. It was too close to the doors and since there are houses and apartments nearby they have to be careful of the noise bylaws. A little disappointing but the good thing is that I have seven months to figure out a new plan rather than finding out the day of the wedding!
When looking at venues, whether you have already booked one or are in the process of trying to find your dream reception area, ask LOTS of questions... even the ones that may sound obvious. Are tables and chairs included in the rental cost? How many of each and what size? Make sure that you know what kind of chairs they have if you plan on using chair covers. Is the lighting just "on" and "off" or can the lights be dimmed for later in the night (if you can't dim them make sure you have enough other lighting-- more than just tea lights-- for when the sun goes down). Is clean up provided or do you need to take out recycling and the garbage? And, definitely find out if there are any restrictions on where the DJ or other entertainment can or can't be set up!
Until next time!