FAQ's Section

Frequently Asked Wedding Questions

 

Many brides and grooms have questions when planning for their wedding.  We have developed a list of frequently asked questions to help.

 

Who pays for all of this?

Great Question!!!  Budgets are one of the most critical parts of a wedding and must be decided early in the planning process.  It will be key to all decisions related to the event.  Traditionally, the bride and her family have paid for all or most of the wedding and reception.  Today, the bride and groom might pay for the entire event, or the parents of the groom will sometimes request that they be allowed to help by paying for a specific part of the expenses.  In recent years it has become popular for the groom's family to offer to pay for the alcohol service.  Please discuss this important issue with all involved and once it is resolved, share the information with us and all the vendors so that it is clear what the budget is.  They then can provide you with the appropriate services.

 

How much does it cost?

We will customize the menu and accompaniments to fit your budget accordingly.  Please keep in mind the importance of the date and time.  i.e. Lunch is cheaper then dinner and holidays and Saturdays are prime times. 

 

What colors do we choose?

Great Lakes Catering & Special Events offers a full selection of colors to match the surroundings as well as, the bride's dress.

 

What time is dinner?

Typically, appetizers begin upon guests arrival at the reception hall with dinner being served approximately 1 to 1-1/2 hours later.  Times may vary based on weather and location.

 

Who can do the cake?

Great Lakes Catering & Special Events has an executive pastry chef on hand to handle any of your customized requests. If we can't do it, we can recommend someone who can.

 

Can we tactfully request cash on our invitations?

Soliciting gifts is always inappropriate.  Gifts are given to acknowledge this important moment in your life.  If you insist on cash as the preferred gift, you could make your family and the bridal party aware of your preference and let them share the information with others.

 

This is our second wedding.  Can we celebrate with a large formal wedding?

Today, we see many couples celebrating with a large wedding with friends and family in ways that include:  registering for gifts, planning a rehearsal dinner, selecting attendants, including children from a previous marriage and holding a wedding reception.  Celebrate however you see fit!!!

 

What if I forget someone's name when making introductions?

Be honest and apologize for forgetting.  Ask their name and then move on to other conversation.  Keep things in perspective.  You have had an overwhelming day and everyone will understand.

 

How long after the wedding do we have to mail our thank-you notes?

Thank-you notes are very important and sending them promptly is critical.  They should always be hand written on notepaper (that's right, NO e-mails).  In today's fast paced environment, the time frame has been shortened to 4-6 weeks after the wedding as compared to the 3 months maximum tradition of your mother's day.

 

Is it proper to ask the pastor what is his fee for performing our wedding service?

Yes, but don't be surprised if his response is to suggest a donation or that they are not comfortable suggesting an amount.  If you do not get a direct response, check with other recently-married friends for suggestions.  Many experts say that if you received premarital counseling or had several meetings prior to the ceremony, you would provide the official with a generous gift.

 

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