How to brighten up a dark wood reception venue?

If allowed, you could try adding ivory or white table runners over the burgandy linens on the tables.

What is your intended color scheme, by the way?

Honestly, it could work in your favor. Use all light colored details to balance out the darkness. Maybe try while and yellow? That would look great with burgundy, and there are plenty of white and yellow flowers.

LIGHTING LIGHTING LIGHTING....I have no idea why this is the MOST underrated and underused element of decoration at weddings and events. It instantly transforms the entire look of room and really isn't that expensive. Look into hiring a lighting company and cutting back on the flower budget!

I agree with wowjunkie about making all the little details have color and with Laura on getting a prof to come in and do the Lighting.

Thanks for the responses. I just started the reception search and I am waiting to pick colors until I decide where the wedding is going to be and when. I am thinking of may 28th 2011 or Sep 10, 2011 as a date so they are 2 very different seasons. It all depends on what place we choose and the outdoor ceremony location. I am still very up in the air about everything since I am not planning to get married till 2011. I am just trying to decide if I could keep this place in the running of reception possibilities. I generally like a more light colored wood and more contemporary feel but this place has nice grounds and a lot of good food.