POST-IT NOTE TWO: Community Centre Vs. Trendy Upscale Restaurant

You have an idea but do you have the budget? The age old question. S1 and Mr. HFH really wanted an Old Montreal wedding and so they hit the pavement to check out some venue possibilities.

First up was Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel (http://www.lesaint-gabriel.com/). The Auberge's style is a mix of modern and trendy with a little country thrown in. A huge fireplace when you walk in catches your eye and makes you feel comfortable and cozy. The room immediately to your right, is a great size for a small wedding (~75 ppl) and has beautiful windows. Important to note, you only have use of the terrace out front if you book this room. The room upstairs "Le Grenier", has gorgeous exposed stone walls, hardwood flooring that dates back to the 19th century and more space (~115 ppl with a dance floor). The problem was that this space, in their opinion, was perfect for a Winter wedding. The wood burning fireplace and dark ambiance of "Le Grenier" really emphasized Winter romance. The prices per person for a 3 course meal and open bar were quite reasonable but don't forget to add tax and service.

Next, they hit the Place D'Armes Hotel , Hotel Nelligan and Restaurant du Vieux Port (http://www.oldmontrealweddings.com/). The 2 hotels were gorgeous but pricey (expect menus to start at $125/per person + tax + service). This brings us to Restaurant du Vieux Port. S2 loved the atmosphere and character of this space and will likely be booking it for her & Mr. HFH's Montreal Wedding! Don't feel like you have to decide the day you go to look at a space. It's always a good idea to look around and make sure that the venue is right for you. S2 has been to Restaurant du Vieux Port 5 times and will be back to sign contracts, pick a menu and work with her coordinator! She says not to rush it, you're spending a lot of money so you're better off being confidant in your decision.

S1 and her Mr. HFH decided against Old Montreal because a cheaper and more meaningful opportunity presented itself; they're having their wedding reception at the Kanawaki Golf Club (http://www.kanawakigolf.com/), where S1 and her family have been members for over 25 years. In the end, financial praticality and emotional attachment won and they haven't looked back.

Don't be afraid to ask some tough questions or appear like you are trying to save money. Um hello, we are all in debt and want to save whatever we can! The coordinators you will meet with understand this and will be willing to help you trim a few bucks if it means they get to host your wedding.
**NOTEBOOK HIGHLIGHT**
Here are some key questions to take with you when you go visit your potential venues;
1) How many people can they accomodate comfortably (dance floor, DJ booth, bar etc)?
2) Ask to see the chairs (you'd be surprised how many times we've been shown ... something other than what we were expecting), this could end up costing you in rental fees.
3) Do they charge extra to bring in a DJ?
4) How far in advance can the room be set up?
5) Can we bring in our own cake at no extra charge? If there is a cake cutting fee, how much is it per person?
6) How flexible are they on their menu?
7) Is it possible to have a taste test of the day's menu?
8) How late do you have the room until?
9) What time do you have to turn off the music?
10) Is there a coat/boot check?
11) Can we decorate the room according to our tastes?
12) Will there be a day of coordinator?
13) When are the payments (deposit, 50% payment, balance) due?
14) Do they have any agreements with neighboring hotels?
15) Do they have a parking lot or valet parking?
16) Will we have exclusive access to the venue?
17) Do they have enough bathrooms to accomodate your guests?
18) Do they have a designated smoking area?
19) Do they have adequate outlets and power supply?

Good luck & enjoy this part, it's where you really start to feel like a bride ;)

PS- As you can tell, the debate over the community centre was easily decided. More on that option in our next Post-It Note: DIY vs. Full Service Venues. Discuss.