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 Who better to know than the staff that plans it all? We consulted with some of the Southland’s most popular courses and clubs for wedding receptions and got their take on what really matters. Here are 10 questions to ask when planning your big day: What is included in the fees? While some locations tally up their reception fees a la carte, many offer packages that cover everything from linen rentals and parking to the wedding cake. This is especially helpful in avoiding hidden fees or unexpected charges. “We try to plan for the bride and groom. All of the little details are covered in our [three] packages so they can do their budget,” said Jeffrey Gagnon, director of food and beverage operations at Tustin Ranch Golf Club. What’s typically not included in packages are the music, photographer, flowers and officiant. But many facilities, including Tustin Ranch, provide a vendor list. Can I have my ceremony and reception at the same site? Arranging your wedding at the same place as the reception is a key consideration that could save you several hundreds of dollars. By saying your vows under a grand oak or a white gazebo on the property, there’s no need to worry about transportation to the reception, church donations and flowers for the altar. Best of all, it’s convenient for you and your guests. Just be sure there is a place for the bride and groom to dress and relax before the ceremony. Do you provide a wedding coordinator? Anyone who has planned a wedding knows the importance of a point person — someone to make sure guests are seated, the food is served in a timely manner and the cake-cutting is orchestrated. Typically, someone from the food and beverage department is assigned to your reception. Find out who it is and if his or her services are included in the price. I’m not a member at your country club. Can I still have my reception there? While private courses limit play to members, most clubs open their doors to weddings. When it comes to receptions, non-members often pay a little more in gratuity and room charges, said Newport Beach Country Club President Jerry Anderson, “but our costs are competitive with hotels and public courses.” Can I get a discount on green fees the day before — or the day of — my wedding? “We offer discounted green fees based on the size of the group and the type of [wedding] package they sign up for,” said Jimmye Curtis, director of food and beverage at Talega Golf Club in San Clemente. While not all courses offer reduced rates, it’s definitely worth asking about. What if it rains? While weather is rarely an issue in the Southland, some months are more likely to get rain. If you’re planning an outdoor reception or have your heart set on an outdoor ceremony, plan for the worst. Make sure your festivities can move indoors in the event of rain. Coyote Hills Golf Club in Fullerton holds ceremonies under its new, open-air arbor but, if needed, the staff can move a ceremony at the last minute to the ballroom. “I’ve even had to move ceremonies inside because of the heat,” said Kathleen Price, director of catering at Coyote Hills. Will golfers be playing during the ceremony? Golfers play until sunset at most public courses. While catering departments work closely with golf shops to keep distractions to a minimum, you may still hear the clink of a ball being hit. “The bride and groom don’t usually hear anything because they aren’t paying attention,” said Denise Boersma, director of catering at Anaheim Hills Golf Course. “But the guests definitely hear [the game being played].” Can I take photographs on the course? If you have a particular setting you want as a backdrop for your pictures, be sure to ask if you can set up there. Many courses limit photo snapping to one or two areas. “It becomes too much of a liability if we allow the wedding party to meander through the course,” said Mike Vandergoes, general manager at Trump National Los Angeles in Rancho Palos Verdes. “It can really affect the golfers at play as well.” Vandergoes said outdoor photos at Trump National can only be taken on the ballroom terrace. Can we drive the golf cart? While the bride and groom in a golf cart would make a memorable shot, most courses decline driving privileges. “When anyone asks, I will personally take out the bride and groom and their photographer in our six-passenger golf cart,” said Jack Konecni, director of catering at Eagle Glen Golf Club in Corona. “We still have to respect the golfers.” Many courses will deliver a golf cart for a staged photo if you ask beforehand. Can I have my reception both indoors and outdoors? Many sites have a veranda or patio right off their clubhouse or ballroom. Be sure to ask if guests are free to make their way outside to enjoy the view, or if appetizers can be served outdoors. If you’re having your reception at a golf course or country club, you’ll want to take full advantage of the views and beautiful weather. n |
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