Planning a wedding reception is not an easy job. There are many things to be done, from choosing a venue to making a seating plan and ordering a cake. To make this job easier for you, we created a timeline of all the things you need to do.
Things to do 12 months ahead:
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Set the date and time of your wedding.
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Look through this edition of The Bride’s Diary and online at bridesdiary.com.au for potential reception venues. Make a list of potential venues and request information packs to review with your groom.
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Make a list of all the features you would like in a reception venue and cross-check these requirements with your short-listed venues. Start contacting your short-listed venues and arrange inspections. Don’t forget to take your Features List.
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Compare quotes, inclusion and per-head costs. Choose your favourite venue and pay your deposit. Request an itemised invoice that confims all the details and inclusions. Also make note of the amounts and due dates of any outstanding payments.
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Organise the MC and speechmakers for your reception.
Things to do 4 to 6 months ahead:
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Select the decorations for your reception venue and discuss your floral requirements for the reception with your florist.
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Organise the music and entertainment for your reception.
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Confirm the menu and beverages with your caterer/reception venue.
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Choose your cake-maker and book your cake.
Things to do 1 month ahead:
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Plan reception seating.
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Notify your caterer/reception venue of preliminary guest numbers and any special dietary requirements.
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Select music/soundtrack with musicians and entertainers.
Things to do 1 week ahead:
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Confirm final guest numbers and dietary requirements with caterer/reception venue.
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Finalise reception seating plan.
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Confirm collection/delivery of your cake with cake maker.
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Organise a reception timetable and give to your MC.