Half the fun of having a wedding is celebrating with family and friends at the reception.

It's no surprise that couples stress over finding the perfect location to host the event. With a bit of planning and knowing what to look for, every couple can book the ideal spot for their nuptial gala.

TODD FLEEMAN/Special (ENLARGE)
Caterers, location, parking and regulations are important factors in selecting a reception site.
TODD FLEEMAN/Special (ENLARGE)
Bride-to-be Lindsay Horne discusses reception options of the 1420 Room with manager Alan F. Souza of Divine Events Catering.
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When searching for a reception site, think about the type of celebration you want. Are you planning a formal, sit-down dinner or a casual buffet? One popular trend is themed events.

"It makes it unique," said Ruby Wilson, marketing director for The Atrium on Sweet Auburn in Atlanta. "It makes it more memorable." Wilson has seen such creative receptions as "Arabian Nights" and "Love in the Garden."

Couples also are opting for more interaction at their receptions.

"There are a lot of active stations, a lot of passing hors d'oeuvres," said Alan Souza, managing partner of the 1420 Room and Divine Events Catering. He said he's even seen couples utilize passing hors d'oeuvres throughout entire receptions.

Once you decide on the type of event you want, create a list of questions to ask site personnel. For example, is there an area for a cocktail hour? How much parking is available? Do you need valet parking? Is that available? How many guests can the site accommodate? How much decorating can you do? What are the policies and regulations? What time is the space available? Can you bring in your own caterer? Is alcohol permitted? Can you bring your own alcohol? Tailor your questions to your specific needs to make them most effective.

Another key factor in selecting a reception location is cost. Given the plethora of choices around town, every couple is sure to find a site that fits their budget. For example, receptions in church fellowship halls may come with no fee or a small rental charge for church members and a budget-minded fee for nonmembers.

If hiring a caterer, Souza said an average cost could be $25 per person, plus a service fee and labor. However, the time of day and day of the week may affect the cost.

Wilson said themed events may be more costly, running between $7,000 and $10,000 at The Atrium on Sweet Auburn, but brides can customize it to fit their budget. "Girls are able to get it right within their budget versus going per head," she said.

When booking receptions at higher-end locations such as hotels, couples may have to guarantee a minimum food and beverage amount, sometimes as high as five figures. Also, with all venues, expect to pay a deposit, usually ranging between one-third and one-half the total amount due, at the time of booking, with the balance due within a few days of the actual event.

Once a reception site is selected, couples can start searching for a caterer, if necessary. Some sites require couples to use an on-site caterer, while others have a preferred list of caterers from which couples can select.

When meeting with caterers, be sure to discuss the type of event you want, as well as the location you booked. They will have many questions on the food, location and style of your affair.