More Site Tips

Deposits: Inquire about deposits and payment requirements and if you need to bring a check on the wedding day. Ask about taxes, service charges, and extra fees so you can budget accordingly. Also, be sure to keep your site rental contract in your wedding notebook so you can refer to it as needed.

Weather: Partying outdoors? Have a backup plan in place (no matter where you live) so your event is not spoiled by an unexpected change in weather during the ceremony or reception. Look for a facility that has both indoor and outdoor sites so you easily can make a move inside or under cover. Remember, rain is not the only "bad" weather for a wedding; excessive heat, wind, fog, or cold may also affect your plans.

Distance: Holding the ceremony and reception in one place is ideal but not always possible. In general, don't ask your guests to travel any more than necessary. Always be sure to provide maps with written directions and a phone number to call for assistance.

Referrals: Wedding facilitators for many sites often keep lists of vendors. If you need a bakery, photographer, band, or rental china, ask your site contact for recommendations.

Lists: About a month before the wedding, prepare a detailed checklist of items needed at the site. Then place each item into a chronological timeline of the day and assign a friend or relative to be in charge of each detail. This is a great way to ensure that the guestbook and pen(s) are set out (and collected after the reception); that guest favors are distributed on tables; that the bride's suitcase and purse are secured during the wedding.

Cleanup: Who will be responsible for cleaning up after the event is over? Do rentals need to be removed right away or can they wait for pickup the next day? Assign a few relatives to corral leftover food, cake, favors, wine, and flowers if you want to take these things home. (Bring boxes and bags for this activity, too!)

More: Tent Decorating Tips