Bouquet Spring Tinus Viburnum

Your wedding reception is your chance to celebrate the joyful occasion with friends and family. Elegant floral arrangements, exquisite table settings, and special touches all create a beautiful setting for your special day. But even the most well-planned receptions can hit a few snags. Here are a few simple details that will make your wedding reception the celebration you want it to be.

1. Above all, plan the reception around your own taste, and not your mother's, mother-in-law's, sister's, etc. Remember that this is your day and everything from the flowers to the guest favors should reflect the new life you and your husband-to-be are beginning together. Kindly but firmly stand your ground when some well-intentioned relative or friend suggests an idea you don't agree with.

2. When choosing a reception site, be sure to consider every detail. Does the carpet color or pattern compliment your color scheme? Are the chairs in keeping with your theme? Will your guests be able to dance on the floor? Is the decor heavy Victorian and your wedding is a light, airy affair? Create the atmosphere you want from the very start by choosing a reception site that fits your vision.

3. Set a budget and stick to it. Sure, those designer embroidered ribbons match the bridesmaids' dresses perfectly, but it's little--and unnecessary--expenses like this that can add up in no time at all. Nothing is worse than having to come up with extra cash at the last minute for something necessary that you may have forgotten, such as tipping the band or caterer.

4. Before hiring a photographer, ask to see examples of his or her work. Long after the last slice of cake is eaten, the photographs of your day will become your most tangible memories. Not every photographer is created equal, so carefully select one that matches your style, quality standards, and budget.

5. Ask a close friend or family member to take care of little details for you. This is especially important if you choose not to hire a wedding coordinator. Appointing someone you trust for the caterer and other vendors to go to with questions will save you from a lot of stress and allow you to pay attention to your guests and most importantly, your husband.

When it comes to planning a successful wedding reception, it's all in the details. These five tips will go a long way in creating happy memories for you and your husband to share in the years to come.

Crystal Room Fine Catering () provides elegant and tasteful in Naugatuck, Connecticut. Not only can you have the reception you've always wanted, but in a memorable setting as well. Rachel Spohn is a freelance writer.