When looking for the perfect venue to host your wedding reception, the choices are endless! A hotel ballroom, a golf course banquet, or maybe an intimate affair at a classy restaurant – how to choose? The reception venue will set the scene and mood for your big day, so it’s paramount to choose the perfect place!
There are several factors to think about, primarily: what look and style are you going for? Will your wedding be fun, intimate, glamourous, or funky? What venue suits your unique style and personalities? Next, you’ll want to consider how many guests you’re having and if they can be accommodated at the venues you’re considering. Also, what type of reception will you be having – a formal dinner, tea and lunch, or late-night cocktails and appetizers? Will there be dancing or speeches? Another factor to consider is travel distance – how convenient is the reception location in regards to your ceremony location?
Once all these questions have been answered, you can start your search for perfect reception venue. Check local magazines, ask friends, and talk to other wedding professionals for ideas. Once you’ve narrowed down a few choices, get in touch with the venue coordinator and ask for a meeting. At the meeting, the coordinator will give you a tour of the venue and show you the various options for food and beverages, as well as some options for room layout and design. It’s a good idea to bring a short list of questions to ask each coordinator.
When you’ve found the perfect venue, book it! Many of the most popular venues book up 18 months or more in advance, so those who book early have a better chance of getting their date.
Magnolia Photographic has had the pleasure of working at many outstanding venues in the Lower Mainland, and would like to share a few of their favourites:
Terminal City Club – fabulous service, amazing food, and a beautiful venue in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Recently remodeled, the club looks fantastic in warm, neutral tones that give the rooms a old-world, yet modern feeling. The buffet is truly delicious – the variety of food and the presentation is second to none. Guests can enjoy cocktails out on the balcony or inside either of the spacious ballrooms. There are great photo opportunities inside the club and in the many areas outside as well.
Kirin Restaurant, Richmond – Chinese cuisine at it’s best! The service, food, and presentation are excellent. The food is fresh, colourful and each dish is presented in a beautiful and appetizing display. As well, the décor of this restaurant is particularly modern, yet still retaining many traditional Chinese elements – perfect for photo opportunities! There are five locations in the Lower Mainland.
Richmond Golf and Country Club – This is the one of the best golf clubs out there for food, décor, and service. The club was recently remodeled with dark woods, luxurious furnishings, and funky chandeliers, complimented by the beautiful golf course view from the banquet room. The food is delicious – the outdoor barbecue buffet of steak, chicken, and salmon is superb – and backed up perfectly by an array of fresh salads, vegetables, pasta, cold cuts, and of course scrumptious desserts. The room is spacious, with an ample dance floor, and can be expanded for larger parties. There are lots of great photo opportunities just outside the club, or within a 10 minute drive around Richmond.
Brock House – If you’re looking for a more heritage-style, classic venue, then Brock House is the place. This turn-of-the-century mansion sits right on Jericho Beach, and the ocean and mountain views are second to none. You can have your ceremony on the lawn overlooking the water, then carry on to your reception in a luxury tent bordering the home. This is truly a unique venue and an experience your guests will never forget! The food is also excellent, with a wide variety of options and choices. Photo opportunities abound on the property and along beautiful Jericho Beach and Park.
