Wedding TIps and Timeline

So, you've decided to get married and now the decisions begin. Plan your wedding with the Holiday Inn Patriots Point and leave the work to us. All of our events are unique and individualized to satisfy your specific tastes. Our award winning food and beverage department can prepare enticing hors d'oeuvres, fabulous formal dinners, mouth-watering desserts and everything in between. To help you with the details of this wonderful day, we've created a list of tips and a simple timeline for you to follow.


I.  Start by securing your reception date at the Holiday Inn Patriots Point by paying your deposit and signing a letter of confirmation. You can also reserve a block of rooms at this time for your out of town guests so they receive a discounted rate.

II.  Up to six months prior to your wedding date you'll want to start planning your menu for the reception. Keep the following items in mind:

  • Do you prefer a more formal reception with a plated menu (maximum of two entrée selections) or a more casual buffet menu?
  • If you'll be having a cocktail reception with hors d'oeuvres, what do you want to serve?
  • If you plan to offer hors d'oeuvres, you may wish to consider the following rule of thumb for estimating amounts:
  Light consumption Heavy consumption
Hors d'oeuvres only 10 pieces per person per hour 15 pieces per person per hour
Dinner to follow 4 pieces per person per hour 8 pieces per person per hour
  • A carving, pasta or seafood station is a nice way to round out an hors d'oeuvres only reception that is held close to the dinner hour.
  • What beverages do you wish to serve before and after dinner?

III.  One month prior to the reception

  • Finalize menu and set up of the ballroom with the sales and catering department
  • Provide the hotel with the name of the bakery for the wedding cake, DJ or band, florists so we may contact them with delivery and availability times
  • Remember the ballroom will be available and set up three hours prior to your event
  • Sign your contract to confirm food, beverage and all details

IV.  Ten days week prior to the event

  • Provide the sales and catering department a final head count (a guarantee) for the event and make full payment as indicated on the contract

V.  Two days prior to the reception:

  • Bring any items you wish the hotel staff to place in the Ballroom for you, including toasting glasses, cake knife, favors, place cards, and pictures

VI.  The day before the reception

  • Relax and enjoy your special day knowing that experienced professionals will handle all the details of your event

 

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