You want to allow plenty of time for arranging a special occasion, generally about one year in advance. Our staff is trained to provide you with the highest level of personal service in creating an event to remember. We've been in the party palace business for 20 years--and the hall's been in it for more than a century! Here are our best tips for creating a stellar celebration:

STEP 1: KNOW YOUR BUDGET!
We know you want to do something extraordinary for your special occasion, but it can get expensive VERY quickly. Set your budget in advance. All events are priced per person, and there is usually a sales tax and service charge in addition. Your other costs could include entertainment limousines, invitations, favors, photographers, and videographers.

STEP 2: MAKE YOUR GUEST LIST
Be realistic and remember step No. 1: Your total costs amounts to how many guests you invite. Make your list early, and do your best to stick with it. (Of course, if you have unlimited resources, we encourage you to invite everyone you know and tell them to invite everyone they know. Beween all our ballrooms at different floor levels we can host up to 8,000 guests!)

STEP 3: SET YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT AT THE GRAND PROSPECT HALL
Your first appointment with an event consultant here is an important one. This is when you will pick a menu to determine your price per person. Your budget and your tastes will largely determine the menu. Different menus are available, depending on the occasion, time of year and time of day. Dining styles include buffet, sit-down, family, and cocktail only. For instance, a buffet tends to be more casual, whereas a sit-down dinner is more formal. Another consideration is the party structure. Our event planner will work closely with you to meet your specific needs. To set an appointment, e-mail us at info@grandprospecthall.com or call 718-788-0777.

STEP 4: SET YOUR SECOND APPOINTMENT AT THE GRAND PROSPECT HALL
This is when you will book your date and work out your payment plan. Usually, this includes a minimum downpayment with the full payment due two weeks before the event.

STEP 5: BOOK YOUR ENTERTAINMENT, PHOTOGRAPHER, AND LIMOUSINE
Once you know the event date and time, you will need to book your entertainment, photographer/videographer, and limousine. Your event planner can provide suggestions, recommendations and assistance for these details. Do your research and set dates early, so that you can be sure to get the best professionals for your event. For instance, go to listen to a DJ or band before making your choice. Look at a photographer's or videographer's portfolio and package contracts. Always ask for references and check them out.

STEP 6: SEND OUT YOUR INVITATIONS
You will mail your invitations about two months before the event. Choose an RSVP date that is at least four weeks before the party. Keep in mind that some people always wait until the last minute to respond.

STEP 7: FINALIZE RSVPs
Organize a list of those who have committed to attending your event and those who have declined. Compare this new list with the original list, and call anyone who has not yet responded. From this you can develop your final master guest list.

STEP 8: SET YOUR FINAL APPOINTMENT AT THE GRAND PROSPECT HALL
Your last appointment at the hall will include going over the details of your event. This will include seating arrangements and room sets. (Your planner will provide you with a seating form for you to fill out in advance to make arrangements simpler.) At this appointment, you will also make your final payment and return procession and entertainment insurance forms. Your event planner will explain the specifics and the sequence of the event.

STEP 9: IT'S TIME TO PARTY!!!