tips for perfect reception party

you will need to choose your florist at least six months ahead of time and reserve your party rentals two months after that.

Especially if you are planning a destination wedding or marrying on a holiday, ask guests to mark their calendars. Ideally, mail out these announcements at least four months before the wedding.

Be prepared Up to 80 to 90 percent of those invited may attend. (The smaller the list, the more yeses you should expect percentage wise, because you will likely be asking only those closest to you.)

Make sure you have signed contracts from all your vendors and that youve read the fine print and resolved any questions.

Be sure you have ample room for tables (figure 10 to 15 square feet per person, assuming that the tables are round and seat six to 10 guests) also check that the dance floor is big enough (four to five square feet per guest is about right).

Planning an outdoor reception.You cant count on sunshine, so either reserve a tent or opt for a location with an indoor alternative in the event of inclement weather.

Even if youve decided against an overall wedding planner, you will want a cool headed pro on hand to ask guests to be seated for dinner, help organize toasts, and handle any problems. Ask if your venue can provide this service if not, some independent planners will work for a single day.

If possible, designate a separate cocktail area and close the reception space to early arrivals. To create a sense of drama, neither you nor your guests should see the behind the scenes machinations and last minute setup gaffes. Keeping the doors closed will also let your photographer take unhurried shots of the reception decor before the crowd arrives.

Stylish tokens neednt be expensive. These biodegradable bowls (left and below) look sumptuous when wrapped with gauzy fabric and labeled with paper strips that are laser printed in a pretty font. Fill with mini meringues, an economical treat either make them yourself or ask your caterer to provide them.

Many venues charge more for after dark affairs. With an outdoor reception, if you opt for a luncheon event, you will also cut back on or eliminate costs associated with lighting, such as setup and generators.