Anyone couples having a reception at a restaurant?

We were married and had a luncheon reception at a restaurant. We had a total of 30 people, so it was very, very small. We picked a restaurant not normally "associated" with weddings but one that did have a private room available which was already nicely decorated. We both met with the general manager, and secured the room, made certain there would be no problems with having a ceremony there, guest limitations, we would be able to decorate (nothing hanging on the walls, of course), and that it would be okay for us to bring in our cake. We were actually given the okay to come in an decorate the night before. We were given 2 servers dedicated to our event, which was enough. Our guests simply ordered off the menu, and we instructed the servers to let our guests know we would also cover the cost of any alcohol. I also instructed the servers to have plates of appetizers ready to be served to each table immediately after the ceremony, so while we were taking pictures, cont

Our guests had something to eat. I do believe most also took a restroom break and hit up the bar.

My husband took care of the bill, but I think - with the tip, and he was quite generous as our servers were truly great - it came to around $600.

Thanks for sharing ladies! I am going to call a few places this week and see what I can come up with. Worst case scenario we just call ahead somewhere and reserve the seating.

I think this is a great idea. I am going to call a rustic buffet style resturuant and see if I can set up and decorate the night before. Such a great idea. They don't vs serve alchohol and idt we could dance (its a three room banquet area) but those weren't are make or break items .

Has anyone had a restaurant create a special menu that youve prepaid for and had guest choose their meals off that instead of everyone ordering anything off the regular menu and you paying the bill at the end of the night?