Planning your wedding on a strict budget doesn’t mean that you have to have a cheesy wedding reception. Here are a number of tips and ideas to implement when you plan a budget-friendly wedding reception. This is one of the ways to survive a recession and still have a good time.
Book your venue as early as possible to get the best prices. Don’t stop with your first venue. Bargain shop and compare prices. Don’t be afraid to haggle over venue prices either. If you catch them during an off season, or even during a reception, a traditional wedding venue may be willing to make you a reasonable deal. Don’t forget to ask about additional fees such as clean up fees, down payments, and refund policies.
If you will plan your wedding during an off time of year, such as from January to March, you will get the best possible prices on catering, reception venues, and even honeymoons. Also, if you consider a weekday wedding you will also save money. It is usually cheaper than getting married on the weekend because the venues and caterers are usually less busy during the week.
The costs of most wedding receptions are escalated because of the cost of alcohol. There are a few ways to handle this. You can eliminate alcohol altogether, have a beer and wine only bar, provide your own liquor instead of depending on the caterer, or consider having a cash bar. All of these options will save money on your reception.
If you can forego a traditional banquet hall and find a community center, Church facility, or even an outdoor venue for your reception it will be less expensive. Community facilities are generally rented for much less.
Don’t spend too much money on decorations. You can find beautiful decorations in your local dollar store, craft store, or online for very little money. You can find tulles, candles, mirrors, and small decorations that will outfit your reception like it was done by a professional.
You can save money on food, as well. You can serve only appetizers at the reception. This is appropriate between 4 and 7 pm. A tea reception with finger foods, tea, cake, and coffee is appropriate between 2 and 5 pm. Another option is to serve a brunch or breakfast reception.
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Tags: budget wedding planning, Wedding, Wedding Planning, wedding recession