Madeleine Brown, Functions and Event Coordinator at Barilla Bay Tasmania, chats to Bride Tasmania about wedding reception trends and offers her advice for couples planning their big day.
What are some of the things couples should consider when they’re searching for a reception venue?
Couples need to consider their style and feel, head count and budget when deciding on where to hold their special day. You might be able to save on decorations and decor if you select a venue that suits your wedding day style.
No firm head count is needed to look at venues, but having a rough idea of your wedding size will allow you to eliminate particular venues before visiting them in person. Determine whether the venue works within your budget and also how flexible they are when it comes to your menu and taste buds.
Feeling comfortable with your wedding coordinator also enables couples to build a relationship in the future.
How can a bride and groom maximise their time spent when meeting with their reception venue coordinator/caterer?
Compiling a checklist always helps and having a list of questions is encouraged. Have an image of what it is you’re trying to create in the space; this will allow your coordinator to include their ideas and suggestions if necessary.
What are some trends you are seeing when it comes to wedding receptions and/or catering?
I’m seeing more and more couples opting for the less is more approach when it comes to decorating. Candy buffets and opting to have wedding cake as dessert are fast becoming popular choices amongst couples. A rise in accommodating substantial canapés for cocktail style weddings has also been evident.
How did you get started in the industry?
Working in hospitality is something that just sort of happened for me. I started working in the restaurant scene as a waitress and fairly quickly moved into the role of supervising.
I have since obtained a Diploma in Hospitality Management.
Since moving into my role as the Functions and Events Coordinator at Barilla Bay I get to combine my passion for food, wine and creativity.
What is something unique to your service that you are especially proud of?
I love that couples can experience a truly serene and idyllic setting that is only a short distance from Hobart City. With views of Mt Wellington and Pittwater couples have the convenience of also having their wedding ceremony, pre-dinner drinks, canapés and photos taken in a visually stunning location.
What advice would you give to brides and grooms to ensure their wedding day runs more smoothly?
It pays for couples to be organised in their planning. Be sure to give your wedding coordinator and MC a final schedule for the night’s proceedings.
When it comes to your wedding day, focus on the day ahead. You have to trust that the people around you – the people who you’ve picked because you trust their abilities – will pull off the details in your absence.
Your only job now is to enjoy the day with your partner and the people you love.
To find out more about Barilla Bay Tasmania click here or visit their Facebook page here.
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