WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 1997 THE GEORGETOWN GEMINI 15 What to ask when choosing a site Soon after the engagement is announced, another impor- tant task begins -- the search for the perfect location for the wedding and reception. Many sites are booked at least a year in advance, so it's best to begin early. The most desirable locations will usu- ally be reserved first. If the location of your choice is booked Saturdays, check the possibility of having your reception on Friday evening or Sunday afternoon. Many couples prefer to have the ceremony and re- ception at the same place. This lessens the time spent traveling and reduces the chance that some guests may get lost or not attend. Guests enjoy watching the couple get their wedding pho- tos taken. This also provides a relaxing atmosphere for guests to chat together and sample hors d'oeuvres and beverages. You should try to visit as many location sites as time allows before making your final choice. Prepare a list of questions ahead of time so you get all the information you need during your visit. "fatten Visit your chosen facility when it is set up for a wed- ding. Get all details in writ- ing, and check the expiration date of the cost estimates. Take into account additional items or time charges that could be added to your bill. Be sure to ask the facility how many weddings it books at one time. If two receptions are taking place at one time, it may take away from your special event. You may also find people wandering into the wrong reception. Consider how much serv- ice the staff at the site will BRIDES WELCOME! We specialize in a wide selection of Bridal Invitations, Accessories and Gifts. offer you. Be sure to ask this question when considering a site for the reception. Will a personal coordina- tor from the staff be present during the event to be sure things are running smoothly? How should you contact the staffifthey are in another reception or down the hall- way in the ballroom? Be sure to ask lots of questions con- cerning the availability of assistance from the staff. Once you have taken care of these details, one of the hardest parts of planning the wedding will be finished. A little extra creativity can turn your wedding recep- tion into the party of the century. Appoint yourself creative director of your day, and brainstorm about details and delicate touches to make the occasion more memorable. Some tradi- tions you might consider: * An honoured French custom is to drink the wed- ding toast from the coupe de marriage, a large double handled goblet or bowl. \__+Amenda Chinese tradi- I FLORIST a ; 5 Creative ideas make | reception memorable P Veoning a wedding! Flowers to suit every style of wedding, and budget Your one stop florist for all your decorating needs, tion, and pass out fortune cookies at the reception. + In military weddings, it is customary for the couple to pass under the framed arch of swords. Why not have a personal arch that's geared to your occupation? In England, pitchforks are used for farmers and night- sticks for constables. * At German receptions, guests are given a large red and blue checkered napkin in which they are invited to take home leftovers. --_) Our Bridal Consultant can help you make the right choices with the advantage of personalized service. Georgetown Marketplace 873-7096 CLASSIC PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO PRODUCTION 63 Charles St. 877-0311 complete from the house, church and reception. Exceptional quality, with over 15 years of experi- ence in designs coordinated to your bridal party. Free local delivery, free home consultation for personal and professional service -- call Margriet. 120 Main Street, Erin 833-9991 S@ @B Evenc Appomrments AVAILABLE << For out-of-town brides call 1-800-433-5376 anytime afs Golf and Country Club for the Perlect Weddling Reception © beautiful dining room and view o great menu selection © professional staff o personal catering available Let Us Be a Part of Your Special Day 1997 Dates Still Available For more information contact Brian Garvey at