Bridal Reception Checklist
You have gotten engaged and now it is time to start planning your wedding reception. To start, pick the date and find a venue as soon as possible after getting engaged. Try to make plans at least one year away to ensure you are able to get everything done for your special day.
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Guest List
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Start compiling the guest list of everyone you want to invite to your wedding. Be sure the number of people you plan to invite will fit in the venue you have selected. Finalize the guest list five months before the wedding when you send out save-the-date cards. Send invitations out at least eight weeks prior to your wedding to ensure enough time to receive responses and make seating arrangements for the reception.
Theme
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Pick your wedding reception theme and decide on decorations at least 11 months prior to your wedding. This will give you plenty of time to shop around and start purchasing items you need. Once the theme has been selected make a list of everything you will need to fit the theme, such as invitations, backdrops, guest gifts, table centerpieces and floral arrangements.
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Entertainment
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Start interviewing your entertainment options, including DJs and bands, at least nine months before your wedding date. Ask each potential vendor if you can see them work at other receptions or events. Make your final decision six months before the wedding and make appropriate deposits.
Food
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Set your budget for the wedding at the same time you select a date and venue for your reception. Shop around and get prices for the cake and caterers as early as possible and make your final decision at least seven months before the wedding. When selecting a venue try to find one that offers catering services included in the cost of the reception hall. Ask to have a food tasting four months prior to your wedding so you can make the final menu selections. Let the caterer know your final head count approximately one to two weeks before the wedding.
Stationery
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Make a list of all stationery-related items you need for your reception. Stationery items include reception programs, menus, table numbers and place cards. Place the final order for all stationery items not less than three months before your wedding.
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References
Resources
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