How to Throw a Low-Budget Wedding Reception
- 1). Get your budget in order. Discuss how much you can spend in total and then how much of that you can spend on the reception. The reception is generally your biggest expense. It includes the cost of the hall, food, drinks, decorations, favors and music. Do Internet research for halls in your area or close to where the ceremony is going to be. If the ceremony will be at the reception site, make sure the place you choose can make that happen. One way to save money on the hall is to shop around. Look for a variety of venues, not just places where all their money is made from receptions. Restaurants can be a viable alternative and are generally much cheaper than the usual wedding spots.
- 2). Consider a simple hall where the food can be catered. This may save you money in the long run; also remember that most reception halls that provide food will usually work with you to cut costs from a package. Cutting or downgrading alcohol from a package can save thousands of dollars. Only choosing two entrees instead of three may also bring the total cost down. And be sure to find out if there is a discount for your wedding date. Off-months such as January and February usually are much cheaper than months like May and June.
- 3). Use low-cost decorations, or consider having the bridal party make them. Decorations such as centerpieces can be very costly. Sometimes faux flowers look just as real and are cheaper, or you can decide against flowers altogether and go the route of candles, which are much cheaper and set the ambiance for evening receptions. Photographs of the couple in frames are other ideas; flower petals strewn across the tablecloth also work. While flowers are the norm, you can think outside the box not only to save money but to make it personal.
- 4). Buy favors in bulk. Shop around and ask if buying in bulk will bring a discount. Shopping online for favors can be a fantastic way to save money, even with shipping, and you are able to immediately compare prices with other sites.
- 5). Negotiate on DJs or bands. If the DJ says the package includes two DJs, ask how much one would be. You can also use your own music for a very inexpensive alternative.