All you need to know on the way to your big day!
From reservation to the wedding day our staff strives to be as helpful and clear as possible about your journey. If something is unclear we are happy to help answer any questions. Absolutely it is your most important day and your day should be everything you want it to be supported by transparent information and a staff dedicated to you.
Reservations to the wedding week.- A completed reservation form will hold your date.
- A contract will be issued to you within 3 business days via e-mail.
- Review your contract and please read TAC policies.
- Returned your signed contract within one week from receiving. Your wedding date is confirmed and added Catering Creations calendar.
- Pay deposit when the signed contract is returned to the Thompson Center.
- Expect to receive an e-mail receipt of your payment within one or two business days.
- All balances must be paid within 6 months from the date of the signed contract. If the wedding is less than 6 months from the signed contract then all balances must be paid one week from the wedding day.
- Catering Creations will contact you to attend periodic tastings.
- Catering Creations will confirm all reception related setups as well as food and beverage payment.
- You will meet at the TAC with catering and venue staff to finalize wedding details.
- Final rehearsal date and time can be established 6 months from the wedding date. The TAC provides free rehearsals and also free rehearsal dinner space (you must purchase all food and beverage from Catering Creations).
- Week of the wedding you will receive a checklist review sent from Steven to double-check all of your details.
Make your wedding day everything you want.
Some helpful items to help you understand your Thompson Center wedding experience.
- Understand your catering budget it is the largest expense of most weddings. Ask that catering be presented in a clear manner at every venue you visit. A good budget formula at the Thompson Center for an outstanding buffet + Nebraska State Tax + Catering Labor + Bar (five-hour beer wine and soda) = around $45 per adult. So for every 100 adults, you will need roughly $4500. There are numerous ways to upgrade everything from the food to the bar (please see Catering Creations menu). What we presented here is all you need for a spectacular wedding reception the want is up to you.
- Start booking your vendors early. The longer you wait, the fewer choices you will have.
- Most couples will need a DJ, Florist, Cake Purveyor and Photographer to start. Our trusted partners are below, all of them are reasonably priced, show up in a timely manner and perform as promised.
- Sites like The KNOT or Wedding Wire.com can help with planning and checklists.
- Feel free to visit the Thompson Center or ask us questions at any time. We are here to help!
- Talk with your wedding team to make sure there is a plan for set-up &tear down of decorations based on your contracted time.
- Read through the Thompson Center policies and list any questions you might have.
- Find a trusted person to be in charge of your ceremony. Your officiant should lead and advise.
- Make sure wedding vendors know all equipment will need to be removed at the end of your event. Encourage them to contact Thompson Center staff for help.
- Enjoy your special day — our staff is here to make your wedding day simply wonderful!
Vendors to make your wedding shine.
Hotels
- Element Hotel at Mid Town Crossing, Free BreakfasACt, Shuttle, Shopping/Restaurants: 402.614.8080
- Marriott Courtyard/Residence Inn Aksarben, Free Breakfast, Pets, Shopping/Restaurants: 402.951.4300 or 402.289.9500
- Staybridge Suites Dodge Street, Free Breakfast, In Room Kitchen, Shuttle: 402.933.8901
Officiant
- I Tie the Knots: 402.965.1060
- Nothing Bundt Cakes: 402.933.9305
- Cake Gallery: 402.397.2253
- Hy-Vee: 402.384.8668
- VK Events, Floral & Planning: 402.364.2433
- RJE Planning + Design: 402.681.6039
Photographers
- Complete Weddings + Events Photography: 402.339.3535
- Nathaniel Jensen: 402.881.5584
DJ Services & Photobooth
- Complete Weddings + Events: 402.339.3535
- E.M.T DJ: 531.721.4055
- DJMattCorleone.com | 402.800.7725
Florist
- Piccolo's: 402.614.3685
Chair Covers
- Omaha Chair Covers: 402.212.8493
- Chair Cover Elegance: 712.546.7094
Lighting
- Fade Up Designs: 402.957.1508
Something Sweet
- Omaha's E Creamery (Personalized Ice Cream): 1.866.920.5344
Harpist
- Kim Meyers: 402.515.4791
Event Decor
- GloGlo Creations: 402.819.0859
Travel
- AAA Travel: 800.222.6327
Bridal Shop
- David's Bridal: 402.391.1211
Gentleman Wear
Men's Warehouse: 402.397.5492
Event Insurance
- Your Trusted Auto or Home Insurer
- Markel Event Insurance Specialist: 855.422.5944
Additional Spaces
Sokol Concourse runs between the two ballrooms and is a beautiful, pre-function space that guests use throughout the evening.
Andersen Hospitality Room is where many couples place their buffet line. Opening by partition into Centennial Hall, it also can seat guests during increased attendance.
Severa Parlor Some couples host a cocktail reception in the Parlor prior to the main event. The room also can be used for additional dinner seating, accommodating up to 48 guests at round tables.
Contact the Thompson Alumni Center
If you think the Thompson Alumni Center is the ideal setting for your wedding reception, begin the rental process today by submitting a Reservation Inquiry form. Our staff will promptly answer your request according to your indicated preference—email, mail or phone. You are under no obligation by submitting the form.
You also can call 402.554.2444 or email the staff at thompsonalumnicenter@unomaha.edu for more information or to schedule a tour. Remember, prime dates often are reserved a year or more in advance.
Make your special day truly special — reserve the Thompson Alumni Center for an unforgettable event.