Planning for your wedding reception doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does take time to ensure you’ve accounted for everything. After all, there are a lot of factors to consider—from the venue to the type of music you will dance to. By tackling your checklist one step at a time, you can plan out a dream-like wedding reception from start to finish.

Here are some things to add to your checklist:

• Print Out a Timeline: Let everyone involved know what happens when, so they are all on the same page. This includes venue staff, caterers, the band or DJ, and the wedding party.
• Book the Venue: Don't wait too long to reserve your banquet hall. Many spots book out a year in advance!
• Hire a Caterer: Make sure the food is planned out ahead of time, so you don't have to stress about it down the line. Do a taste test of your proposed menu and consider a vegetarian or gluten-free dish depending on the dietary needs of your guests.
• Choose the Decor: Once you’ve decided on a wedding theme or color scheme, immerse yourself in the many small details that will define your big day. Get in touch with a florist within a few months of the wedding and start shopping for favors at least a month in advance.
• Order Reception Stationery: Choose the place cards, name tags, menus, table cards, and thank-you notes once you have all your RSVPs. That way, you can ensure you reserve the right amount.
• Choose Lighting: Strings of light, candles, luminarias, and fire pits can add a unique ambiance to your reception. Of course, you should check with your venue before making a final decision.
• Map Out Your Space: Make sure your reception hall has enough room for everyone to sit, as well as the right number of chairs. The venue staff will suggest the best arrangement of tables, but you’ll need to make the seating chart yourself.
• Prepare the Favors: If you need to assemble your favors or build a craft from scratch, give yourself plenty of time to get them done. Ask bridesmaids for help to make the work more fun.

Lake St Louis Banquet Center in Charles County, MO, is the ideal spot for your wedding reception, and their experienced staff will make planning this once-in-a-lifetime celebration easy. For more information on the reception hall, call (636) 560-6550 today. You can also visit their website for details and an inspirational photo gallery.