Photographer Questions:

How would you describe your style?
This is an important question to ask, because if you want very traditional photographs, lot's of posed family groups, and expect the traditional "list" of photographs (ring shots, limo shots, etc.) you don't want to hire someone who describes themself as a photojournalistic purist, no posed imaging at all.  Most photographers will be a combination of styles, able to take gorgeous posed or directed images and still capture all of the fun and spontaniety of the day.  Make sure that the photographer's style is what you're looking for, don't expect them to shoot differently on your wedding day.

Can we have input into the photographs that will be taken?
You don't want to have your heart set on a certain image, and because you never expressed your desire for it, not have it included in your wedding photos.  Make sure that you will be able to communicate your needs, wishes, desires before the wedding day.  Your photographer should know what family groupings you'd like, whether you want your wedding party images very formal, or if you're all going to run in the water...  where you'd like to have your photos taken... that you and your college friends have an informal photo taken at every event...  They should also know the images you  have your heart set on, those that are important to you.  Don't expect the photographer to know that the handkerchief you tucked around your flowers was carried by your mother, and her mother, on their wedding days...  Every wedding is different, and although you love the photographer's personality and their sample albums and images, they still should care about what you want in your wedding photographs.

- The Studio by the Sea

Catering:

The Casual Gourmet

What should I look for in a caterer?
There are all different kinds of caterers and you should look for one that will best fit your needs. Some caterers simply provide the food while others offer full-service event planning and coordinating. Make sure the caterer you hire clearly outlines the services they provide and what you will need to do on your own.  

Regardless of what kind of services you will need for your wedding, you will want to make sure your caterer has the appropriate licenses, permits, insurance and worker's compensation. If the catering company will be serving or providing alcohol at your event, they should have liquor liability insurance. Contact local ordinance boards or check with the Better Business Bureau if you are concerned.

A caterer should welcome your questions about where the food comes from and how it is prepared and transported. They should be more than happy to let you tour their kitchen or sample their food. Use your senses here -- how does the kitchen look and smell? Does the food taste fresh?  

A reputable caterer will also provide a list of references from past events. Don't hesitate to contact these former clients.

I am interested in renting a waterfront home for my wedding. How do I do that?
There are many private residences on Cape Cod that are available to rent for your wedding. Off-premise catering companies often maintain a list of these kinds of facilities, or you could also try contacting local real estate companies who manage rental properties.

Can I provide my own alcohol?
At most non-traditional wedding venues, such as a private home or a museum, it is possible to provide your own alcohol. Your caterer should be able to provide you a list of recommended brands and quantities. If a wedding venue has a liquor license -- this includes most hotels, restaurants, country clubs and banquet facilities -- you will most likely not be able to provide your own alcohol, but they should be able to accommodate your requests for specific brands or special wines.
If you do provide your own alcohol, make sure whoever is serving it (the caterer or a bartending service) is trained in safe beverage service and has complete liquor liability insurance.  

If I use a non-traditional site, who will take charge of my wedding?
Choosing to have your wedding at a non-traditional site, like a park or museum, provides a chance to have a unique and personalized event, but it can seem daunting. It's possible you'll need tents and tables, china and linens -- even salt & pepper shakers!  One option is to hire a wedding planner to help you pull a lot of the details together. Alternately, you can opt to hire a full-service caterer, who will be able to provide you with not only the food and service, but with equipment rentals, event planning, vendor referrals, site logistics, design and set-up supervision. Some caterers even provide a wedding coordinator who will be on-site the day of the event making sure the flowers have been delivered, the band is cued, and the bride and groom cut the cake. 

- The Casual Gourmet

Accomodations:

Chatham Bars Inn

What is the Cape’s high season for weddings and how fast can they book?
Cape Cod is busy with weddings Mid-April through the Christmas season.  Most Cape weddings fall between June and August due to the beautiful summer season.  Events stay strong through the fall, with September, October and early November being crisp months for a beautiful wedding.  The possibility of snowfall in late November and December make it a beautiful time for a holiday wedding.
Weddings can book years in advance.  Check with the resort to see their availability.  Some resorts may be closed in the off-season, so be sure to check the dates before you set your heart on a location.

What is required to hold a function space for my wedding?
Most resorts will have a fee for the function space.  Typically the deposit to hold the space would be the room rental fee.  With a signed contract, this deposit would secure the space for the future date.  It is not necessary to make final decisions on menus at this time, unless you just booked your wedding for 2 months from the date you signed the contract.  Food and beverage options can be decided 2-3 months out from the event. 

Will I need a wedding planner, or will the resort’s Catering Manager take care of everything?
This depends on how intricate your wedding is going to be.  Most Catering Managers only deal with scheduling their property and making sure that the food and beverage is top notch.  Catering Managers may have some excellent recommendations, but typically they will not help in booking the band or the photographer.  They may, however, be able to rent your tent or linens for you.  Wedding Planners are more apt to know the ins and outs of the whole wedding industry.  They would be able to sit down with you and go over all of your specific details, such as your linen rentals and your party favors.  If you are looking to have a grand event, it is great to have the Catering Manager from the resort as well as a Wedding Planner so that all of your intricate details are covered.

Most resorts have package pricing.  If I am on a budget, can I work with the resort to meet my budget needs?
Typically package pricing is for the benefit of the Bride and Groom.  Most wedding packages include all of the food and beverage for the evening.  If you are looking to have a smaller wedding you can talk to the resort’s Catering Manager about other options.  You can save money by eliminating the open bar, or cutting it back by 2 hours, and having a cash bar.  Ask about off-season rates.  If a resort is open year-round they most likely have lower rates for off-season events.  Also, ask about other food options, such as a clam bake, if you are looking to have a casual event.  Most Catering Managers are willing to work with you to accommodate your budget.  Do not be afraid to ask!

- Chatham Bars Inn