subject: The Check List For Your Wedding Reception Site Rental [print this page] When you book your reception site, understanding what is and what is not included in the rental fee is a must. Each facility is different, so you have to clarify with the manager of the property what can be provided by the venue, and what you must provide. It's also important to make sure that everything you have agreed upon is put in writing.
You may need some, if not all items listed below depending on the venue.
a) Chairs. You need to provide seating for all reception guests for a seated dinner or seated buffet. You may able to get away with enough chairs for half or more of the total number of guests for a buffet style reception. It is also possible for you to rent or purchase chair covers separately. High chairs for children should be available from rental companies.
b) Guest Tables. Comfortably seating4-6 guests and be appropriate for a buffet type menu are smaller tables such as a 36 inch round. Larger tables like a 48-inch round will seat 6-8 guests, or a 60-inch round seats 8-10 guests. Regardless of their size, all guest tables are pre-set with flatware, glassware, linen napkins, and coffee cups that work well for a seated dinner.
c) Cake Table. A 48-inch round would usually work well but the appropriate size will depend on the size of your wedding cake. Don't forget to include the decorative adds to the cake display like linen or floral accents. The cake should also be located in a highly visible but low traffic location. You want to show it since it is part of the decor, but keep it out of the high traffic areas to keep it safe.
4. Groom's Cake Table. A 36-inch round will work flawlessly if the groom's cake has not been served during rehearsal dinner.
5. Head Table. The head table is facing the guests and this is the most important factor about this table. Considered as a very common head table arrangement is several rectangular tables placed end-to-end to seat your entire wedding party.
Buffet Tables. You will need to arrange several food stations such as meet carving and so on if you have decided on a buffet dinner. (It is likely that buffet tables will be provided by the catering company.)
g) Gift Table. On this table, the wedding gifts are placed and the size should depend on the number of guests you are expecting.
h) Guest Book Table. A small table for your reception guest book.
9. Linens and Tableware. You may include linens and tableware with the rented tables or you may need to source it elsewhere.
Tents. They could be a lifesaver to outdoor receptions because they protect guests from the sun or rainfall. For a rainy day, they can be used as a plan B.
