DIY wedding: who do I get to 'run' the reception?!

[OurDayWillCome]

I'm pretty clueless about this wedding malarky. I'm happy to do all the prep for the day including sorting buffet etc, but if I hire a village hall/rugby club type establishment, who can I get to make announcements, clear away, serve tea etc?!

Realise that I could, in fact, 'do it myself' but that doesn't sound much fun.

Whoever you get to do it isn't going to have much fun on the day, so it definitely shouldn't be you. Do you have a capable acquaintance who isn't close enough to be invited as a guest? You should pay that person a decent rate for their trouble. The outrage poured by MNers on the bride who expected an acquaintance to do this as a favour was legendary.

Pay someone!

We hired a local 18yearold who had done lots of catering waiting and then he had a bout 4 mates who we also employed. Best man manag d them, and brideslaves/parents helped.

Reliable local teenagers (offer at least minimum wage)

Or try the WI, who might do it in return for a donation to funds. Or know who else local is reliable.

Would definitely pay them. Did think it was perhaps a job for an 'aquaintance', but can't think of someone who would fit the bill. Don't think we'll have bridesmaids or even a best man, and my mum I'd pretty useless. I do however have a much younger brother in his early twenties who must have some willing friends and I also teach sixth corners. Sure they'd love to watch their teacher get blind drunk in her wedding day. Do need a competent person to oversee though. DP's Dad is a member of the Lions club in the town we work, so may know someone used to organising events. Good suggestion, ta.

You can hire waiting staff.

Don't hire your students!! Your local catering college should have trainees willing to do this.

I agree local teens would be good, but I wouldn't use people you teach!

If you asked a local Explorer (Scouts) or Ranger (Guides) Unit, a) they'd be use to making tea and washing up etc., and b) they'd have a Leader in Charge to take responsibility - offer to make a a generous donation to their group or to pay them for the hours worked. (This is for the making tea and washing up, not the announcements).
Generally, the 'announcements' / running of the day should be the best man's job, but in reality, you just need anyone with a bit of common sense who is confident enough to speak in public.

Ask the venue what they suggest when you contact them.

Hire staff or a wedding planner, it's a lot of effort serving food and drinks, clearing up, washing up etc I wouldn't entrust it to the locsl scouts, you need professionals. I have hired people in the past it works fine.
Are you hiring crockery, cutlery, table linens, glassware, etc?
Are tables and chairs sorted?

Our caterer is doing this at our village hall wedding and sister/bridesmaid is doing the rest.