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Dotty Answers Reception Site Question
- Oct 5, 2022
- 2 min read
Dear Dorothy Humphrey’s Weddings
I have a younger brother who is living with disability. He is crippled from the waist downwards and needs a wheel chair to get around. My family and the bride’s family would really be happy if he was at our wedding to enjoy the celebrations as a valued member of our family.

We have chosen to have the ceremony at The Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi as it has good amenities and facilities for the disabled.
We had assigned the job of finding a suitable reception venue to one of our friends and we had already paid a 50% deposit to reserve the spot as we are getting married in December, one of the busiest months for weddings.
The garden reception venue is so beautiful with well manicured gardens, plenty of trees for shade and blooming flowers which will look wonderful in the photos and videos. However, on further, detailed inspection of the site, which is close to our home in Githunguri, Kiambu, we noticed that some things were missing. The reception area and washroom areas are not fitted with amenities for people living with disabilities especially those who use wheel chairs.
The deposit is non-refundable. We are in a bit of a tight spot. What can we do? Kindly advice.
Best regards
Andrew Githae, Githunguri, Kiambu.
Dear Andrew
Thank you for your letter. Disabled people are important members of our society and it is wise to include them in all our family gatherings.
When looking for a suitable reception site it is very important that you and your fiancé make a check-list of the amenities you and your guests are going to need. These include the number of people to invite; the food and beverages you are going to serve; the seating choices and arrangements; adequate security, parking facilities and amenities for people living with disabilities.
Even if you had assigned the task to a friend, remember that it is you and your fiancé who are getting married. It is wise to go along with them from the very first visit (along with your list of requirements!). Ensure that all your needs are met before paying any deposits for reservation of reception sites.
Since you have already paid a deposit which is non-refundable, we suggest the following. Firstly, you can get a wooden ramp made for your brother at one of the local furniture making shops. There are several in the main Kiambu Town and also in Thika Town. I am sure even closer to home in Githunguri, you will find a local carpenter who can fit out one for your brother. After the wedding you can take it to your new home and use it each time your brother visits. He will always remember how much you loved him to go out of your way to include him in your celebrations. Alternatively, you can search for a large Event Planning company that usually has such items as extras and hire it for one day.

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