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Wedding venue checklist: Tips to help you recognize if the site is right for you

When you look for your wedding venue, it is often difficult to ascertain whether a site is right without seeing it all decked up. To make the right choice, you should have a fair idea of what you want it to do, and how it can be transformed to suit your wedding plan. For many couples, this may be the first time they are hosting any event on this scale, and so it can be very confusing.

To help you do it right, here is a checklist of the various factors the site must have.

Fits your budget

Set aside a realistic amount for the venue charges. If you are getting married in a church or house of worship, you will also have to factor in the donation for using the space.

Look at places where the rent is within your budget. Ask about any other charges or overheads in addition to the rent, so you know whether you can afford it. Also ask if the package includes services like an on-site co-ordinator or staff for serving cake and wine, or whether you will have to pay separately for these services.

Practicality of the venue

The location should be easy to access and your guests shouldn’t have trouble getting there. It would be best if both the ceremony and the reception venues were nearby or in the same location. This will be most comfortable, but if it is not possible, consider arranging transportation between the venues. See if you can have parking at the first venue and make transport arrangements to the reception.

The size is right

Look at the maximum number of people the site can hold. Don’t forget to accommodate for your band, musicians, buffet table and aisle when determining the maximum capacity. Only then will you get a clear picture of whether all your guests will fit comfortably in the space. If it is a small wedding, avoid a big venue. Being mostly empty will reduce the overall impact.

The rates for using it overtime

Venues are either charged by the hour, or for a certain slot of time. Ask about the extra charges you will have to pay if you wish to access the venue for a few extra hours, before or after the ceremony. Also ask for their rates if your wedding party extends late into the night.

Provision for disabled access

Check whether the venue allows for disabled access. It is likely that there will be older guests in your wedding party. The availability of washrooms on the ground floor would be convenient for them. Also, are there any outdoor seating arrangements that your wedding guests can use, if they have to wait before entering the venue?

Don’t forget to consider the practicality of the venue for the wedding look you have in mind. It wouldn’t be fun negotiating your way up and down a staircase, if you have chosen a mermaid-style wedding dress or a heavily layered one. So choose accordingly.

The more boxes you tick off this checklist, the better suited a venue will be for your wedding. For more wedding tips and ideas, keep visiting us at Best for Bride.

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Unique Wedding Venues

Are you looking for a wedding venue, but don’t want to go with the traditional options that are overused and boring? Instead of settling for a beach wedding or one in a church, why not try some of these beautiful wedding venue options that will definitely be a memorable choice.

A Chapel

A chapel is a tiny church that is usually in a secluded location. They are small, so if you have a large invitation list, this will probably not work out for you. However, these venues make for some adorable pictures and the ceremony can be intimate and personal. Plus, you can always have a large reception later on if you wish.

Country Club

Many country clubs have some pretty amazing locations for events such as weddings. Since they typically cater to those who have a bit more money than the rest, they tend to have much nicer facilities than other locations. Keep in mind that these places do tend to be a bit pricey, but if you are already a member, you may be able to get a decent price.

A Winery

Between the wine and the vineyards, there is something magical about having a wedding planned in a winery. This is also a great location for beautiful pictures and they are a great place for receptions as well. If you don’t live in an area that is known for wineries, check around. Just about every area has a winery around somewhere.

Historic Buildings

Museums and historic buildings are also a great place to hold a wedding. Not only will they be beautiful and memorable, but they will also showcase a special part of the city that you are choosing to be married in. Although they may be difficult to find, consider checking with group that owns the building to see if a wedding can be held there.

Extreme

Do you have a passion for something, like rock climbing or sky diving. This can make a very fun wedding that will get your blood pumping. Naturally, with these types of weddings, your guest list will need to be kept to a minimum, but you can always have a formal reception after the wedding. Pretty much any hobby can be turned into a wedding opportunity, so make sure that you keep your options open.

Castle

There is nothing quite as romantic as having your wedding in a castle. Of course, you will probably need to travel to find a traditional castle, but you may look around to see if there are any replicas in your area. Some businesses have designed buildings to look like a castle and these are the perfect location for a beautiful and romantic wedding.

Best for Bride

Best for Bride is a fantastic store to find all of your wedding day supplies. From wedding gowns, to décor to dresses for the wedding party, Best for Bride has everything that you will need to make your wedding beautiful and memorable. Be sure to stop in when you are making your wedding day plans.

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How to Hire a Caterer for a Wedding Reception

Couples recruit several professionals to help with their weddings. Each one plays a part in making the wedding as the couple wants it. The photographer, officiant, florist, and caterer have roles to fill to ensure the wedding becomes the special day the couple has been planning for months. Choosing a caterer is an important part of having the reception of your dreams. Here are some tips about how to hire a caterer for a wedding reception.

The couple may feel pressured to use a friend or family member as the caterer. If the couple is confronted with this situation, they may need to be assertive and politely say they are using a different caterer. A caterer, friend or family member who would be invited to the wedding may be appeased with the couple sharing that they would like the person to be able to relax and enjoy the wedding. The friend actually might enjoy the opportunity of seeing what a competing caterer is doing.

An engaged couple should start looking for a caterer nine months to a year before the wedding date. Some couples rush into hiring the first caterer they meet. Consider holding off on the decision until after meeting several caterers available for the wedding date. If caterers bring samples to the meeting, ask if they charge for them.

Getting caught up in discussing details, such as certain menu items, is easy. While the couple will want to share their ideas, the focus should be on the overall feel they want for the reception for the first meeting. The couple should discuss the caterers specialties and what type of cuisine the caterer would suggest for the style of the wedding. You can learn more at ipantry.com.au about why it is important to choose a caterer who is experienced in the type of cuisine you want for your wedding. Couples can discuss whether they want a formal dinner or buffet and receive suggestions from the caterers.

Caterers usually price the event per person. Before meeting with the caterers, know approximately how many guests you will have. You don’t have to know the exact number of guests at this early stage. However, you may find it helpful to know your budget and an estimate of the number of guests when discussing prices with potential caterers.

Know exactly what the caterer provides. Some caterers provide the tables, chairs, and dinnerware. Others only provide dinnerware. Some caterers only provide the food and serve the guests or set up a buffet. Caterers may have these items and services included in the price or for additional fees. Therefore, it’s important to ask what is included and what services cost extra.

When it comes to the wedding cake, some caterers will charge an extra fee to serve the cake. If you want the caterer to handle cutting and serving the wedding cake, be sure to discuss this with the caterers. A few caterers work with bakers to provide the cake as well.

Planning a wedding involves taking care of many details and making decisions. The Best for Bride blog contains helpful tips for stress-free wedding planning.

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Wedding dresses with features that Wow!

To look amazing on your wedding day, all you need is a spectacular wedding dress!

Although there is a universe of wedding dresses, not all of them are alike. A wedding dress that doesn’t flatter your build will not help you, however fantastic its features may be. So, keep in mind that your choice should be a dress that enhances your best features. Give due importance to your comfort and fit, and then look at the factors that can make a gown stand out against the rest.

While many wedding dresses qualify as “just another dress”, there are certain features that make a statement. So, how do you find one that will have your guests spell-struck? Let us look at the features in a wedding dress that are worth a “WOW!”

Stunning illusion necklines

Illusion necklines are the rage this season. Choose a dress that has stunning details in lace or with embellishments in crystal or metal beading and it will impress! It is not only the neckline, but the details on the back also, that play a crucial role in transforming a dress from good to Fantastic!

Take a look at this stunning Mori Lee tulle ball gown with a decadent illusion neckline.

The stunning display of embellishments on sheer fabric, starts at the neck and continues down the bodice. The effect is amazing. The dress also features a beautiful illusion back that is perfect from every angle.

Oversized motif that grabs attention

A striking motif which is executed with perfection is hard to miss, and it enhances the overall effect of a dress. It could even be a detachable accessory that adds to the visual interest and transforms an average-looking wedding gown into an exquisite one.

In this elegant Mori Lee 2724 Chantilly lace gown from the Spring 2015 collection, the embellished heart-shaped applique at the bust is the one factor that makes the dress one stand out.

Drama of a signature element

Who can resist the allure of a stunning signature element that adds oodles of glamour to a wedding gown? Choose a dress with a uniquely attractive feature that pops out, and nobody will be able to take their eyes off you.

Notice the impressive waterfall of laser cut organza ruffles in this 2685 bridal gown from the Mori Lee 2014 Fall Collection. A stunning skirt like this is dramatic and will forever be remembered as a phenomenal wedding gown.

Opulence of silk

Silk is considered the epitome of luxury, and it is hard to beat the richness and royalty of a dress that shines with a silky flourish. Dresses in Larissa Satin or Duchess satin look elegant and classic, and when these are embellished with further details, the effect is mesmerizing.

This Mori Lee 2722 bridal gown in Larissa Satin not only features the glossy shine of silk, but its beauty is further enhanced by the pleated details in the bodice, the scintillating waistband and the cascading layers in the skirt.

For more details on these wedding dresses that Wow, as well as for simpler choices, visit our collection at Best for Bride, and be prepared to be amazed!