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The reception is over; the bride and groom have left for their
honeymoon. Now, who is going to clean up the reception center? If the
bride and groom didn't specifically appoint someone, it may not get
done, since everyone thinks that it is someone else's responsibility,
so no one does it.
Most churches and reception centers require that the bride and groom
pay a cleaning deposit when the facility is rented. The couple will
forfeit the deposit if someone doesn't clean up properly and in a
timely manner. Most facilities, including churches, have activities
scheduled for the day after a wedding, making timely and adequate
clean-up imperative.
To insure that the facility is cleaned and that you get your deposit
back, several days before the wedding ask someone to be in charge of
clean up activities. Choose someone that you know will understand the
finer points of cleaning. Usually, a young, single brother does not
have the same standards of cleanliness as a more mature aunt or an
older friend or relative. However, don't ask the parents of the bride
or groom to handle clean-up unless they specifically volunteer. They
will be tired after several long days of activity and they will
appreciate your thoughtfulness in choosing someone else.
The necessary cleaning activities may include the following:
• removing decorations from the church and the reception center
• removing linens and centerpieces
• dismantling tables and chairs
• stacking rented items in a special place for pick-up or returning
them to the rental center the following day
• cleaning the kitchen, including caring for left-over food and cake
• sweeping and mopping
• checking rest rooms and dressing rooms for trash and personal
belongings
• emptying trash
• turning out lights and locking doors
Be certain that the person in charge knows what you want them to do
with decorations and other items. Be sure to provide containers for
decorations, particularly breakable items, and for food. If any
decorations are to be given to the facility, or belong to the
facility, note which ones. Also provide information on how to handle
rented items - when will the items be picked up and where should they
be stacked? If you are uncertain of the facility's policies, be sure
to ask, and if possible, get a written list of cleaning instructions.
Most facilities will hold your cleaning deposit until they have had
time to inspect the facility, then it will be returned.
A few minutes spent delegating activities can save you money and
headaches in the long run. |
