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The reception typically accounts for the largest expense of your wedding day, so find a location that you can visualize as the one that fulfills your dreams. It's what guests talk about the most-the food, the music, the dancing...you get the idea...a memorable reception.

Every couple envisions the "ideal venue" in their own way. Factors like the wedding style, the over-all budget, the guest count, the season of the year, and if you want an indoor or outdoor wedding will all have some effect on your decision. Fortunately, many venues in the Black Hills offer something for everyone.

Sites available for wedding receptions range from resorts and ballrooms to outdoor locations with breathtaking views. No two venues will be exactly alike, varying in size, formality, and the extent of services they provide. At some locations, you rent the location, or an empty room, and you completely transform it with tables and decorations to suit your desires. Other facilities can provide everything you need for your reception, they'll have rental items for you to choose from. Most facilities will fall somewhere in between.

Before making an appointment with the venue, request the following information over the phone to confirm they meet your initial criteria: is your date available, what do their prices per person start at, and can they accommodate your guest list. If they fit these initial criteria for you then make an appointment to tour the reception site.

It may be love at first sight, but looks aren't everything. Meet the staff that you will be working with for your wedding.

There should be chemistry between you and the property's staff members. Spend ample time touring the entire facility. Make sure the site's decor and ambience complement the style you have envisioned for your wedding. Ask to visit when another wedding is being set up to accurately assess what the site can accommodate. You can also ask to see photos of events similar in size to your wedding reception.

Take our list of questions on page 18 with you, and don't be afraid to be thorough. The site's event coordinators are professionals and realize that people only plan an event like this once in their lifetime; they won't be offended with questions.

After settling on the venue that fits your requirements grab it before it gets away. Book the facility as far in advance of your wedding day as possible. It's not uncommon to have your site booked a year or more in advance of your date.

Reputable venues will have a contract that covers all of the details. Read the clauses and fine print. Clarify anything confusing before you sign. Most places require a deposit and will need to be paid the balance at least a week in advance. Remember to coordinate that date with your RSVP date to confirm your guest count.

Black Hills Bride Staff