How to Make your Reception Guests Feel Welcome

We all know that the first impressions are important and following a great ceremony it is crucial to keep the momentum going as your guests experience your reception.  Since the wedding party is frequently involved in post-ceremony photography for about an hour, it is our responsibility to tend to your guests' needs.  Many of your guests have not had anything to eat or drink for hours prior to your ceremony and by having an open bar and some kind of hors'doeurvres immediately following the reception, you create that great first impression.  Your DJ should also have welcoming music playing softly and the gift table should be near the pavilion entrance so your guests can leave their gift and proceed to a table.  Our staff will help guests with children who need high chairs, booster seats, or special food preparation.  We will also assist those in wheelchairs who need a chair removed from a table.  Throughout the evening, you will see our staff talking to your guess and making sure their needs are being met.

Glenda Kraettli, Wedding Coordinator
Hermann Hill Missouri Weddings

Dealing with Complex Families: Seating and Entrances

The good news about complex family seating and entrance issues is that they are normally only a big concern during the ceremony and when selecting the order of tables to go through the buffet lines.  Our experienced wedding coordinators are comfortable dealing with these issues but can only do their best if they are informed in advance of what the bride and groom want to happen. 

Many of these issues are dealt with during the rehearsal and, by treating everyone with dignity and respect, we normally produce entrances that allow for excellent photography and plenty of smiles. 

Similarly, by knowing which tables seat immediate family and the closest friends, our wedding coordinators will be happy to dismiss them first.  Making your guests feel welcome in spite of complex family issues is our specialty.

Glenda Kraettli, Wedding Coordinator
Hermann Hill Missouri Weddings

Why is communication with the DJ so important?

The brides and grooms at Hermann Hill select their own photographer, DJ and officiant.  We believe selecting the right DJ requires homework and decision-making about the vision you have for your reception.  Most of your guests may believe the DJ works for Hermann Hill, but the reality is you will hire the DJ, sign the contract and the pay the DJ directly.  During this process, you should be asked to fill out a questionnaire about the kind of theme you want for your reception, the names of your wedding party, time line and song play list.  Your Hermann Hill Wedding Coordinator will help you gather this information and point out some of the critical areas that require your decision:  What kind of entrance, toasts, announcement about dinner, cake cutting, first dance, and if you want "games" as part of your reception.  Your Coordinator will also talk to the DJ and try her best to make sure that your wishes and time line are followed.  How do you want your DJ to portray your vision for the reception?


Glenda Kraettli, Wedding Coordinator
Hermann Hill Missouri Weddings