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Location, Location, Location…
Where is the key to a wonderful wedding.
You want your wedding to be an expression of your love…of your taste…and it will be! There are lots of decisions to make and it's best to get all the facts in order to plan the best party possible. One of the first and most important steps is to select the site for your wedding reception.
We spoke to Jerry Scotto, owner of The Westbury Manor, an English Victorian mansion with lavish gardens and traditional country club style banquet rooms, one of Long Island's premiere wedding locals. He gives excellent, candid advice on selecting the site for your most important party ever.
"Where you have your party sets the stage for the whole affair", says Scotto, a veteran of the wedding industry, who knows how to make brides happy. Westbury Manor's mission is "to provide detailed, personalized service that makes a customer's event harmonious… service and food that exceed expectations."
When
First step is to set the date. Next, estimate the number of guests you will have. Scotto suggests that when you do the booking of your reception site depends on the number of guests you expect to invite. For a large party (175 and over) book 12 to 15 months before the big day. Parties of 150 and under require a year to 9 months in advance for site booking.
Budget
Before you book, first determine what you are able and willing to spend. "To save the most money, elope!" Jerry Scotto jokes. Remember that January, February and November (except for certain holidays) are slower at catering halls, so prices may be lower. The traditionally popular Saturday night comes at top prices. A weekday wedding can cut costs by 30%.
Decide what type of affair you want; formal, semi-formal or informal. Next go shopping by phone. Make calls and ask questions. "Today's brides are more educated and knowledgeable. They know how to shop around and get the most for their money," says Scotto. He suggests that you make sure the price per person includes everything, that there aren't any additional costs, like valet or coat check, that might come up later. Check out cancellation policies, for example, and how they handle inclement weather during winter parties. The exact details of your agreement should be outlined in the contract.
Where
"Once you've narrowed it down, shop in person for ambiance, does it create the mood you desire? When you visit, are you treated properly by the staff?" Scotto says that his business goal is to create an organization that thrives on the success of its employees. He makes sure they have the tools to perform at the highest level, treats them properly, so they want to come to work and deliver the best service with a smile.
Scotto says that costs in this business accurately reflect value. In other words, you get what you pay for. If a reception has openings and cuts prices, this is because its service is lacking. Westbury Manor gets most of his clients through word of mouth.
Think about the feel, the theme of the affair you want to have, the personalities of you and your mate. Elegant estates like Westbury Manor are an option for a sophisticated affair. You can select a hotel, reception hall, restaurant, yacht, park, botanical garden…the options on Long Island are limitless.
Do your research and don't be afraid to ask questions. Once you have decided upon the right place for your reception, you will be sure that your dream wedding will become a reality.
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