This is so common yet it can be easily avoided. Test your microphones, speakers, projectors and laptop before the reception begin to prevent awkward moments.

Another thing your should bear in mind is to communicate with your videographer. Tell him exactly how you are going to plan your entrance and where your path is going to be so he can plan his angle. Imagine how it would be if he have targeted an entrance path but you actually planned to appear right on the stage?

 

Even the poshest hotels sometimes have bad service due to lack of waiters. Ask beforehand what is the ratio of waiters to number to tables. Can one person take care of three tables? It depends on the formality of your reception. In grand 8 course dinners, a waiter has to refill drinks, refill liquor, change plates, serve dishes and clear them but in a Sunday brunch reception, the waiter only clear plates. In most cases, it is advisable to hire additional waiters.

You may want to have one or two designated waiter to refill liquor only, as you do not want your guests to freely help themselves with it.

No one could predict a blackout, and hotels should have a back up generator. Talk to your reception vendor or if you use candles, more advantage to you.  Weather forecast is can be wrong, so take extra precautions if you plan to have an outdoor reception.