Well! Merely choosing a place near to the place of ceremony is not enough. You have to consider other things as well. What are they? Let me discuss them one by one.

1. The Exterior and Interior of the Reception Hall.

So you found a hall near your place of the wedding ceremony. Good! But you also have to pay attention to how the place looks both on the outside and inside. The hall may be near enough but it may look dilapidated and worn out. A good hall needs to look good from the outside, but more important still is the interior.  Is the place big enough to accommodate all your guests or is it going to be cramped? If possible get a draft plan of the seating arrangements and go over it. Are there any pillars blocking the view?

2. Hall Facilities

Are tables and chairs provided as part of the hall rental or is there a separate charge? What about the table cloth? What colour would you like and do they have it? Is there a bar or can they do a bar set-up? What about parking? Is there ample space for parking? Do they provide jockey service? Of course if your reception is in a hotel, most of these things are complementary. Check out our Information on Hotels.

Are the toilets in good condition? Toilets being too close to the hall can provide a `good' odour, which you definitely would not want. What about the lighting – both the floor space and the stage? Will there be a lighting and sound technician on duty? Is the P.A. system provided? Is there any extra charge?

Something which most of us overlook – Are there handicap facilities? If any of your guests is on a wheel chair, you surely want them to feel at home and comfortable. Another important thing to remember is the special dietary needs of your guests –  vegetarian/halal etc.

Do they provide a caterer or would you like your own? Do they provide the Wedding Cake? Certainly, do not forget the photographer and the video man. If possible have two photographers, in case one goofs. I know of people who have nothing to remember their wedding by because their cousin who was the photographer accidentally exposed the film. Have one professional cameraman, to play safe.