Your functions coordinatorWhether it’s an elegant venue or catering in a stunning locale, your final choice should leave you feeling confident and excited. A professional and friendly functions manager will make all the difference, so take the time to discuss your ideas with them — before you sign on the dotted line. Their inspiration and advice will prove invaluable throughout the process and it’s advisable to work out effective communication from the start. Venue questionsWill the venue cater for the size of your wedding? Do the initial prices suit your budget?
Is the venue conveniently located close to the ceremony, post-ceremony photography location and hotel? Will you have use of the venue exclusively or be sharing it with other functions? What exactly is included in the venue’s wedding packages?
Can you alter the packages to suit your needs?
Can you design a menu and have a taste testing?
Is the cost of alcohol based on the number of guests or the amount consumed?
Is the cake cutting included? Will you need to bring a stand et cetera?
Are decorations included? If not, what will the venue allow?
Is entertainment included? What sort of sound system and space is available?
What is the time limit for the reception and is there a fee for running over time?
Is there a powder room or dressing room for the bridal party?
Is there a nice space for candid guest photographs?
Does the venue offer “off-peak” rates?
Is there a dance floor?
Are there any special extras: slide show facilities, special lighting, candles, printed menus?
How do you pay? When are deposits due and how much?
What is the cancellation fee? Reception stylesA sublime selection of reception styles is available, the five basic ones being à la carte, buffet, cocktail, morning tea and banquet.
A formal, à la carte, sit-down style of reception is well suited to a traditional wedding. An alternate drop meal involving several courses always proves a popular choice.
The buffet style is particularly suited to summer receptions and is ideal for those with a penchant for seafood. A wide selection of foods, including vegetarian, should be available, with your guests sure to find something to delight in.
The cocktail wedding is on the rise in popularity for its interactive element. Guests usually receive cold food first, followed by hot savouries and easy-to-manage delicacies. This style allows you to borrow from across cultures for tasty, modern cuisine.
For those who are on a tighter budget or want to try something new, a morning tea or breakfast should be considered. Fresh juices, teas and coffee are a cheaper alternative to alcohol and the food is also fresh and affordable.
A banquet or tapas-style wedding where guests can sample from a wide selection of dishes also proves to be a delicious dining experience. For an intimate wedding, why not opt for individual picnic hampers or a sumptuous outdoor spread?
Cutting costs• Keep the guest list to a minimum.
• Cut out a course or replace dessert with your wedding cake.
• Cut down alcohol consumption with a morning/midday wedding; provide your own alcohol, limit alcohol to toasts or have a “cash bar”.
• Hold your reception on a Sunday or weekday. | 
