Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

MaureenM618 Posted: Oct 25, 2006 09:31 AM

Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

I need some advice on picking a reception hall. I have 4 possibilities so far and I was wondering what helped you guys decide between you final choices? Is there a checklist or something?

Also when you do go to book the hall what are some things I should make sure are in the contract? What questions should I ask? Any info appreciated. We want to make our final decision on hall and book by 1st week in November. Thanks!

TnOiOnL Posted: Oct 25, 2006 09:37 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

Well our decision was based on the discount they gave us. In addition, everytime we saw the place we loved it more and more.

If you like all 4 places equally- I personally, would go by price, amount of food, liquor, etc.. My family is off-the-boat guineas so food is a MAJOR detail...

moonlitee Posted: Oct 25, 2006 09:40 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

I would compare price with what each place is giving you. Are any of them throwing anything in for free or discounting? Do a food tasting if possible to see if you like what they serve. Do they do more than one wedding at a time? if so ask how they keep the different parties from running into each other.

NY031978 Posted: Oct 25, 2006 09:43 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

well when it was time for me too book i had 4. I liked 2 bc they were on the water...even tho im a winter bride just looked nice! But I had some drama so wipped 1 out right away. Then 3 were left. 2 were a few dollars from eachother but 1 gave a lil more food. The other was 15-20 more a head. I liked the place but it seemed to be a lil more than what we wanted to spend. Would of been another 5k! So i stayed w. 2 Scotto sites. Both wanted the booking so both worked with me. I got add ons for free and as we signed we played the game and got another 2 bucks off a head.

just look at the overall place...CH room...Ballroom. Layouts and all. Def make sure theres room for your DJ or band! FOOD is key...dont book a place bc its less $$$ spend the extra if it means you get better food and service!!

what places are in your final 4???

MaureenM618 Posted: Oct 25, 2006 09:56 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

I would have to negotiate price with all the halls listed here except for Leonard's for them to fit into my budget. The only one that does 1 wedding at a time in the Inn at New Hyde Park. I think all the ball rooms were nice. Larkfield is giving us a couple little incentives, chair covers, candlelabras.

Larkfield Manor We both love this one but we're worried about the distance. I know all the girls said not to worry about distance but I do.

Westbury Manor - Second choice. More expensive than larkfield, no outdoor CH for us. In Nassau county ++

Leonard's- It was okay but they gave us the cheapest price. Under our max cost pp. Did not like the outdoor ceremony site and I think the room may be to big for 60 guests. I want something cozy.

Inn at New Hyde Park - Love the menu!!! perfect location, Queens/Nassau border. They are renovating the whole place, adding a large outdoor area with gardens, fountains, waterfalls, an outdoor ceremony site, etc.. They are also adding an underground parking garage, and an indoor chapel. The plans look amazing but I scared to book something based on a drawing of what it will be like. What if the renovations fall through or the change the design? Then I am nervous that if I book something else and then this place turns out amazing I'm going to be disappointed.

ronnysbride Posted: Oct 25, 2006 09:57 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

In addition to the suggestions above, ask what type of liquor they are serving. All places I went to told me top shelf, but what I consider top shelf is not what they considered top shelf....

That's if type of liquor is important to you.

MaureenM618 Posted: Oct 25, 2006 10:00 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

Hmmm.... I never thought to ask exactely what is considered top shelf. All these places told me they have open bar with top shelf liquor though. I give that's another question to add to my list.

mrsh2b Posted: Oct 25, 2006 10:08 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

It sounds like you like the New Hyde Park Inn. I'll tell you that I had 2 friends book RH based on plans without seeing the finished product and it worked out great for both of them. The place is brand new then for you! My one friend had booked North Ritz from a trailer and my other friend booked Larkfield based on looking at plans. They both were extremely happy and were glad they rolled the dice. I also know that when I called to go see Venetian Yacht Club it was in the midst of renovations (no sheet rock even up) so I didn't even consider it b/c I couldn't envision. Well, the place is done now and I hear its gorgeous so I'm kind of kicking myself for not looking. Go with your gut. If you like it there, go for it.

As far as the distance thing with the Larkfield, we all trekked out to Eastwind this weekend for my friend's wedding. Nobody complained about it and those who thought it was too far just stayed in the hotel. It was no big deal.

MaureenM618 Posted: Oct 25, 2006 10:41 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

Thanks for you help girls I guess I have to try hard to get over the distance fear. I also guess I should go back to Larkfield, Inn at New Hyde Park and Westbury Manor and see what I can negotiate with each and pick the best deal.

DanaRenee Posted: Oct 25, 2006 10:58 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

I decided on mine b/c I fell in LOVE w/the whole feeling I got when we drove up!! I was sold before I even walked in!

Kara and Todd Posted: Oct 25, 2006 11:20 AM

Re: Reception hall question (choosing hall & contracts)

You may also inquire whether or not they are willing to have sealed bottles of liquor for you at the reception. (This way you're 100% sure it's top shelft - and not just cheaper liquor in a top shelf liquor bottle!)