One of the first steps should be to start looking for and reserve as soon as possible a location for the reception.  Certain locations and dates fill up quickly and if you have a sentimental reason for a particular location or date you will need to reserve well in advance.  While it is advisable to compare the packages of different banquet halls, at some point you have to make a decision and delaying that decision could cost you the date you want.  So you will need to determine quickly what details you want most and make a decision.  It is also recommended that you contact a recently married couple who may know of reception halls they contacted when they were looking and could give you some pointers on their top picks (as well as places to look for decorations and other wedding-related items). 

You can simplify the planning considerably by looking for a package which includes the photographer, limosine, the wedding cake, floral arrangements and other miscellaneous reception details.  However, you will still have to select the colors for the tables, the floral arrangements that you desire, the entrees and appetizers, the music, the wedding cake design and any decorations you want to place on the tables.  Before signing any contract you should understand exactly what is included in the package and what is not.  That way you can more easily compare packages by different banquet halls and avoid frustration and additional expense later.  The job of coordinating all the wedding details is incredible and especially so if both the bride and groom are working full time.  Make sure you ask about the rules of the banquet hall, any restrictions and additional items provided.  There are several little things that one can often forget about but you will have to pay for separately if they aren't included.  Another idea to save on the reception is to have the reception at the church with just hors d'oeuvres instead of a formal dinner. 

Another note - you will need to coordinate with a friend or family member to either take the groom from the reception hall to the wedding prior or take the couple back to the church after the wedding.  As well, someone will need to collect the gifts and store them while the couple is on their honeymoon.