- 1). Assess your budget. Determine if you are able to throw your wedding and reception at the restaurant or if you only have enough to use the restaurant for the reception. If you can afford it and the restaurant's layout and decor is suitable for the ceremony as well, keeping the entire event in one location could prove to be a convenient and cost-effective option. Plus, you will save time with your guests not having to travel to another location after the ceremony.
- 2). Count your guest list. Restaurant weddings typically work best if you have a small guest list. Unless it is feasible for your budget to rent out the entire restaurant, chances are your party will be designated to a smaller room or private section of the restaurant. Contact the restaurant you are interested in and ask what spaces they have available and the seating capacity before you book. The last thing you want to do is select a restaurant where the designated area for your wedding is not large enough to comfortably fit all of your guests.
- 3). Consider the requirements for your event. In addition to assessing whether or not the restaurant can comfortably accommodate your wedding guests, you must also consider whether the venue is logistically feasible for your ceremony. Some things to ask before choosing a restaurant wedding venue are, is there room to set up a DJ or band? Can the tables be moved to create one seating arrangement for the ceremony and another one for the reception, or is there a separate room in the restaurant to host the ceremony? Is there room to create an aisle for the bride to walk down? Is there a dressing room for the bride, groom and bridal party to get dressed for the wedding? Is there enough parking available for the wedding party and guests? Before making a decision on a restaurant to hold your wedding ceremony and reception, make a list of questions to go over with the manager.
- 4). Do a taste test. The best part about having your wedding at a restaurant should be the food. Choose a restaurant that suits your culinary tastes but also offers a wide variety of options for your guests. Set up an appointment or simply visit the restaurant for a night out and try the food. You should choose to have your wedding at a restaurant you actually enjoy. Inquire about menu options and whether any special dishes or accommodations can be made for your event. Some restaurants may allow you choose a set menu for your guests or you may decide that your guests should be able to order what they want. Either way, make sure the food meets your standards and expectations for your big day.
- 5). Negotiate the price. The cost will depend mainly on how much of the restaurant you'll be using. If you plan to rent the entire restaurant, the owner must be compensated for the business he will lose during your event. If you have your wedding during peak business hours such as a Saturday or Friday evening, this may be pricey due to the large amount of business that restaurants receive on the weekends. A cheaper route may be to choose a restaurant with multiple dining rooms that can accommodate multiple parties in addition to the regular patrons. Another option would be to use a restaurant that is closed during the day or closed on the weekend, so you could host a private brunch or lunch time wedding.
- 6). Consider the decor. One of the great advantages of having a restaurant wedding is not having to worry about decorating a church or reception hall. Many restaurants already have their own unique style and look. Be sure to choose a restaurant whose style and appearance fits in with the overall feel and theme for your wedding. Ask the restaurant owner if you can bring additional decorations such as flowers, table centerpieces or personalized linens but be prepared to go with the decor that is already in place.
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