 Restaurants. Take advantage of package deals. Rent a banquet room at your favorite restaurant and have the restaurant’s professional valet service park cars. Get food and beverages delivered to tables by a courteous and attentive staff. Be sure to ask if they have experience with executing private receptions while dinner is being served to patrons in the main restaurant. Menu selection may be limited.
Hotels and Resorts. The honeymoon can start as soon as the plates are cleared from the table. Like restaurants, hotels and resorts are able to offer package deals that other rental facilities cannot. You and your guests can party into the wee hours of the morning, then hop on the elevator and head up for the night. When signing a contract, ask about reduced rates for guests staying at the hotel. Some hotels offer a honeymoon suite for the bride and groom as an added perk. However, there may be more than one event at the same time as your wedding so be sure to ask. The hotel may also have flexibility to move you to a different room if your guest count changes. Pay attention to the colors of the ballroom as you don’t want your bridesmaid dresses and flowers to clash with the dècor.
Historic Sites and Museums. Washington has an array of historic sites and museums to host your fairy tale wedding. Imagine sipping cocktails while looking over works of art or nibbling on a crab cake while a docent explains the history of the mansion. The elaborate architecture creates a beautiful backdrop. Most sites have such ornate decor that little else is needed to decorate the facility. Many historic homes have courtyards. Please keep in mind that because they are historic sites, many have strict rules such as no red sauces or red wines and noise levels have to be kept to a minimum. Prices of these sites range from a few hundred dollars to over ten thousand dollars.
Residential Gardens. Weddings held in residential gardens are an inexpensive way to celebrate a new marriage. Assuming that you are intimately acquainted with the landowner, there may not be costly site rental fees to pay. You will have to rent folding chairs, tables and a canopy (or some other shelter) for your caterer and entertainers. Always have a rain plan! Brides want a beautiful sunny day for their big day, but the weather cannot be controlled. Most Washington area tenting companies require several weeks notice to book a tent and at least seven days to cancel without a penalty. Also be sure that restroom facilities are easily accessible for your guests, and power sources are available for your DJ or band.
Create a reception budget, then turn on the style. Explore your options. Today’s couples have more venue options than ever before!
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