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*Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls

Original post by myslideshow

And I am soooo nervous!
I have the book Bridal Bargains and it lists some things to ask and look for when searching for a location; but I don't want to sound like I am repeating something out a book. I need advice on this!
Some details:
We don't have a date set as of now because we are trying to be as flexible as possible. However we are leaning towards the end of March or early April 2007.
We are still working on the guest list but it is looks like we have aprox 170 ppl.
We are working on a serious budget and although I am willing to do without limos and floral centerpieces I don't want to skimp out on food choices.
We are going to Milleridge Cottage, Smithtown Landing, Captain Bills (Bayview House) and West Sayville CC.
Okay (wow this is turning out to be long), So I know I should negotiate but should I even bother negotiating on my first trips to these places? Especially since I don't think I will be booking any place right now because I still want to see the Old Field Club and that appt isn't until the last weekend in April.
And what do I even start with....Should I contain my excitement if I really like a place? Should I tell them of my budget right away?
ANY ADVICE would be so greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!!


Shorty McBride Posted:

Re: *Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls


Posted by myslideshow
Milleridge looked too formal for us and we couldn't even see the ballroom at Smithtown landing. How could they not tell me that there was a function going on when I made the appt? Especially when I'm coming from out of state.



that is RIDICULOUS.

I can't believe that.

I live about 2 minutes from Smithtown Landing...have you seen pics of the ballroom? Do you need me to go get some for you?
Blu-ize Posted:

Re: *Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls


Posted by myslideshow

Edit: This weekend wasn't as productive as I would have liked. I really liked WSCC but I'm wondering if it was because the prices were really good and Steve was so flexible. I didn't fall in love with the place. The Bayview House was GORGEOUS but the location is okay and they didn't budge on Anything!! Milleridge looked too formal for us and we couldn't even see the ballroom at Smithtown landing. How could they not tell me that there was a function going on when I made the appt? Especially when I'm coming from out of state. The search is still on for a fun laid back location that is within our budget. Thanks for all the reccommendations...round two of RH hunting will be happening in two weeks.



Have you seen the Snapper Inn? I hear they do weddings and I know it's more casual than some other places.
October Bliss Posted:

Re: *Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls


Posted by myslideshow

Edit: This weekend wasn't as productive as I would have liked. I really liked WSCC but I'm wondering if it was because the prices were really good and Steve was so flexible. I didn't fall in love with the place. The Bayview House was GORGEOUS but the location is okay and they didn't budge on Anything!! Milleridge looked too formal for us and we couldn't even see the ballroom at Smithtown landing. How could they not tell me that there was a function going on when I made the appt? Especially when I'm coming from out of state. The search is still on for a fun laid back location that is within our budget. Thanks for all the reccommendations...round two of RH hunting will be happening in two weeks.



If you didn't fall in love with the place keep looking. I found there are a few places that won't tell you when you make an appointment that you can't see the ballroom because a function is going on unless you specifically ask the question. When you make the next round of appointments ask the question and make sure you tell them you're coming from OOT and don't have time to waste.

As for your original post (which I somehow missed) keep in mind that between 10%-20% of invited guests say no. Try to negotiate for a minimum guarantee of people that takes that into account. In your case, with 170 invited guests, a 20% decline rate gives you 136 guests.
Swan06 Posted:

Re: *Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls

I went to over 15 places. Try to negotiate
with them in the beginning and if you really like them tell them your ready to book on the spot if they add whatever it is your looking for. After seeing ten venues it became kinda frustrating but honestly I am happy that I got to see so many places it made me really confident about my choice. As I reflect, I wish I would have appreciated that aspect of planning more. Good luck
Mrs_C_in_'07 Posted:

Re: *Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls


Posted by Nina

My only advice to you...please give Chateau La Mer a call...They are phenomenal and have amazing prices



Nina is right! My wedding is there next October and I can't say enough good stuff about them. Read the reviews on here and you'll see. The people there are wonderful and know every detail about your wedding. They truly make you feel like you are their only wedding! Their food, prices, and view are unmatched!!! Plus, you get to arrive on a yacht with all your family and friends watching!! Check them out! They are fantastic. FM if you want any other info! I'd be happy to pass it along!
bellaro782 Posted:

Re: *Update*Finally going to see Reception Halls

WOW this Chateau La Mer Sounds awsome and its near the Venetian Yacht Club which is My number one place in the running but didnt have the date 10/07 that i wanted , which is crazy a year and half away and they are Booked but I will try this Chateau La Mer too.. Thanks for the info.. did you have to pay extra to show up on the Yacht with your Family?

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