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Gabrielle and Lenny visited their first reception venue, the Hotel Bethlehem located in downtown Bethlehem, PA on Sunday. The hotel has been newly renovated and restored to its original 1922 grandeur. The hotel features floor-to-ceiling palladium windows which provide dramatic views of the historic shopping district, two ballrooms and award winning cuisine (which should make Gabrielle’s fiancé happy!) . Lets hear their first impressions and thoughts about this historic landmark. 

SE: What was your first impression of the Hotel Bethlehem?
Gabrielle: I loved it! I had been looking at the Hotel Bethlehem for a long time and it lived up to my every expectation. The staff was particularly accommodating and nice as well.

SE: Could you picture yourself having your wedding there?
Gabrielle: I can definitely see myself having my reception there and having a lot of fun. Not only that, but there are a lot of great places in the town and in the hotel to take good pictures. I also think it will be really easy to work with the staff.

SE: What were some of the things you really liked about the venue?
Gabrielle:  I really liked that it is a historical place. I am not a history buff or anything, but there is something about the place having a deeper meaning that is important to me. It just brings a different element to the atmosphere.

SE: Was there anything that you didn't like about the venue?
Gabrielle:  There isn't anything that I didn't like, but I didn't particularly love the set up of one of the rooms.

SE: Do you plan on looking at any more venues in the area?
Gabrielle: Yes, I plan on looking at other venues.  I am not sure quite yet where. There are a few golf courses/county clubs in the area and another historic hotel.

SE: When do you think you’ll make a final decision on the reception venue?
Gabrielle: I hope to make a decision on a venue by April, if not sooner.

SE: Sounds great. Good luck with the rest of your search and we’ll check back in soon
Gabrielle: ttyl!
 
 
 
Your reception venue will influence the feel and ambience of your reception and should reflect your overall wedding style. Beyond banquet halls and hotels there is a wide variety of locations you can choose for your reception. From museums, to historic mansions to yachts to parks there is a site that will fit your personal taste and unique style. 

Aside from appearance you will have to take into account availability, capacity, cost and convenience when making a decision on your location. If you choose an alternative to the traditional banquet hall you may need to contract additional services like tents, dance floor, tables and chairs, wait staff, etc. from a third party vendor. Keep in mind, going though a third party vendor for these services can be more expensive than booking a venue that provides all of these services on site, so make sure you do your research before deciding one way or the other.

Start your search for a reception venue by looking online and in bridal magazines. This is the easiest way to get a visual of what the venue looks like. Also ask your family and friends for recommendations based on their experiences. Once you’ve compiled a list of potential venues, schedule an appointment to meet with the site manager and tour each location you are interested in. At the end of your meeting the site manager should have covered all of the major points like, availability, price, menu options and décor. 

We recommend visiting at least three venues, even if you love the first venue you see. Visiting additional locations will allow you compare prices and amenities and ensure you are getting the most value for your money. In addition, knowing what other venues in the area are offering will give you more negotiating power when you are finalizing pricing and package details. 

Click here for a list of questions to ask during your meeting with the reception venue manager.