Expert Advice: Five considerations when choosing your reception venue

When you’re planning one of your biggest life events you want to be sure to listen to the experts – someone who has been there and done that – many times!

Melissa, the in-house wedding coordinator at Lakelands Golf Club shares five important considerations when choosing your reception venue.

The role of a venue wedding coordinator
You want a wedding coordinator who is reliable, friendly and accommodating, someone who communicates with you on every detail and who is organised beyond compare. You should also ask how much help you’ll be getting throughout the day, and in the lead-up to the wedding itself. Lakelands’ in-house wedding coordinator, for example, is with you throughout the entire planning process and the whole wedding day. Kathleen and Glenn exchanged vows at Lakelands and were won over by Melissa’s dedication. “Our deciding element [in choosing Lakelands] was the outstanding service from Melissa,” they say. “Her knowledge and personality were what ultimately led to our decision.”

What packages and inclusions are on offer?
Your wedding should be as unique as you – and you’ll want a package to match. If you’re inviting children to the wedding, perhaps you want a dedicated kids’ room to encourage endless fun. Maybe you would prefer to have a DJ over a live band? You’ll also want to consider the season – is there a difference, for example, in a winter wedding package and a summer wedding package? And don’t forget the menu; you’ve got a choice between meals and how they’re served. Make sure your venue covers all bases and can be customised to suit your needs.

What impressions do you get on a site tour?
On a site tour, you need a comprehensive look at the grounds, but you also need to ensure you leave informed and impressed. First impressions are, after all, important – as are your instincts! At Lakelands, the tour involves a look at the reception room, ceremony lawns, photo locations and real wedding showcases, plus plenty of opportunities to ask questions that may pop up. The result is knowing exactly how your day will go. How’s that for peace of mind?

Where is the venue located, and what does it offer?
If opting for two different locations for your ceremony and reception, you want to ensure you’re choosing a central location for guests who may be travelling to celebrate with you. Otherwise, opt for a venue which can easily host your ceremony and reception. It cuts down on travel time – plus, if it’s picturesque, it can easily handle your photographs! Ensure you also have a wet weather option on standby.

What’s the venue like for photographs?
If you’ve ever been a wedding guest, you know the time between the ceremony and the reception has the potential to be… well, boring. Save time and get your photographs taken on location – just be sure the venue has ample photo opportunities. A versatile venue means you can get all the photographs you could get in many locations, in the ease of just one! At Lakelands, the bridges, waterfall under weeping willows, grassy fields and woodland pathways offer many photo opportunities, especially paired with a gently glowing sunset.

Sponsor note: Lakelands Golf Club is located in Merrimac on the Gold Coast and provides couple’s an all-in-one venue option.

To find out more about Lakelands Golf Club, check out the QB wedding reception directory!