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Text Box: What do dancing, drinking and dining have in common? Aside from being the key ingredients to a successful wedding recipe, they usually take place at the reception. While the ceremony might be more symbolic, the wedding reception is often the most festive (and highly anticipated) part of the wedding program, where everyone can let their hair down and get up to the infamous shenanigans that complete every wedding album. However, like every successful party, it’s all about achieving the right mix to ensure all your guests make a seamless transition in party mode. Key considerations in planning your wedding reception include venue choice, menu, beverages and seating arrangement. Make sure your venue is accessible, so that guests can make their way from the ceremony to the reception without too many logistical stresses. Once you’ve worked out the basics, let your guests do the rest. Few people have trouble letting their hair down so if you’re relaxed and having a ball, your friends and family will follow suit! Here are a few things you may not have thought of: Children’s section: Ideally your reception venue will have a room where tired tots and restless kids can play with a few patient adults (or doting aunties who are happy to oblige) so parents are free to enjoy the celebration. Space for a band or a DJ: This is usually included in most typical reception venues, but it’s worth making sure the space is adequately sized for a band. Entrances and exits: Make sure these are positioned so you can make an entrance to remember, whilst allowing your guests to make discreet exits without causing major disruptions throughout the night. Decorations: Whether it’s Calla lilies or candles, it’s the minor details that reflect your wedding theme and add a sense of individuality to a venue. To avoid disappointment, make sure you look into any decorating restrictions at your desired venue, and find out if there are fixtures or aspects of the existing décor that can’t be removed. Stairs and elevators: While stairs may capture the aesthetic grandeur of a reception venue, elevators are an important practical addition for guests with limited mobility, or young children. Proximity of restrooms: This might seem like a minor consideration, but if you’re walking down three flights of stairs several times during the night, you’ll wish you had thought of this earlier!

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