One of the biggest challenges in planning a wedding can be choosing a reception hall. Couples ready to find their dream post-wedding party location should ask the following questions:

• When is the hall available? If you’ve already chosen a wedding date, this is the most important question. If you haven’t decided on a date yet, perhaps a favorite hall’s availability can help you determine when to walk down the aisle.
• How much? With the escalating costs of weddings these days, this should be the question you ask immediately after learning of the hall’s availability. Also ask what’s included in the fee. Some halls charge extra for tables, chairs and linens.
• What’s the capacity? Some reception halls feature rooms for smaller crowds and rooms for larger parties.
• What about the catering? Some reception halls insist customers use their kitchen staff while others allow outside caterers to come in. Also note that if you are required to use a hall’s on-site staff, you may be required to have a minimum number of guests.
• What service styles are available? Food and drinks can be served cocktail style, formal or buffet style. Buffet style serving is often less expensive.
• How can drinks be served? The bar service can range from a full open bar (read as more expensive) to only certain drinks offered at the open bar (such as beer is open bar, mixed drinks are charged to guests) to a cash bar where guests are responsible for their own bar bill.
• How late is the reception hall open? Most will stay open until around midnight, it really depends on the hall’s operating rules. Be sure the party hours are spelled out in your contract.

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