Any input on outdoor reception venues?

[tpxdmd]

So the fiancé and I had planned on doing the Prop Shop for our lunch reception in mid-May, but we were just told by Disney Events that, starting in March, the space is not going to be available due to construction.

We were looking at Italy Isola Point as an alternative, but we're concerned that midday in May in Orlando would be impractical (at best) or pretty darned uncomfortable (at worst), even though we'd be looking to do like a 90 minute lunch, at most.

Anyone have any insights? We also have not found any photos where we can see a good set up of umbrellas or anything? But that can't be right, RIGHT?

Thanks.

 

[lurkyloo]

You are correct and quite considerate of your guests—a midday reception at Italy Isola in May will be rather uncomfortable unless Orlando happens to be experiencing unseasonably cool weather. Even then, not all of us like to sit in the sun for 90 minutes. Did your planner tell you umbrellas are available there, because that sounds like something that would be restricted.

Some ideas....

• Hold the reception in the evening—then you get to see IllumiNations too! And if it starts late enough, you can have amplified entertainment after the park closes.
  
• Use an indoor/outdoor location like the Whitehall Room, the Attic or St. James Room & Patio
• Use an indoor space in another park, like American Adventure Parlor or Dinosaur Lounge in Animal Kingdom (admittedly, it's not the wedding-y-est spot in WDW!)

 

[tpxdmd]

First, you are too helpful. I feel like I'm posting specifically to take advantage of your knowledge. I feel a bit guilty, but you are so darned helpful.

Your two park suggestions are kind of hilarious, because I'm an American history nut and my fiancé is a dinosaur nut.

You don't happen to know what the Whitehall minimums are, do you?

 

[lurkyloo]

Whitehall has no minimums because it's at a convention center. You just have to meet the standard DFTW per-person food and beverage minimums.