If you are planning or have ever helped someone plan a wedding, you know it can get pricey. Even those who try to cut cost often find that there are very few traditional methods for having an inexpensive event. However, if you are willing to use some creativity and be flexible, there are plenty of ways to cut costs. The important thing is to choose your priorities and cut corners in other places. The other aspects can be done on the cheap but still seem as if you are having an elegant, fun, celebratory occasion. The first thing you can do to lessen the amount you will spend on the reception is to find inexpensive food solutions. Instead of a traditional plated dinner, consider serving only cake and other desserts. If you schedule your reception in the later evening, guests will not expect a full dinner. Serving cake, pastries, and delicious dessert wines cuts cost without seeming cheap. Another option for cutting food costs is to serve non-traditional wedding meals. The average wedding meal of rubbery chicken or overcooked steak is usually way overpriced. For a more affordable choice, go for casual and fun food that is still filling such as Roseville BBQ catering or Sacramento corporate catering which can provide delicious, casual meals guests will love. Your reception will have a more casual feel with a meal like this, but it will still be a lot of fun and a great way to celebrate the occasion.
Food is not the only way to cut wedding costs. Many times, an expensive venue rental fee is the problem. Instead of opting for a high-end wedding reception hall, choose something casual.
If you have a place that is large enough, consider having the reception in your home, or the home of a friend or family member. If you live in a temperate climate, the outdoor space of a private home can make for a great reception location.
If there are no private homes with enough space, you can choose a nearby park or lakefront. You may still have to pay a rental fee, but they are typically hundreds of dollars less than traditional wedding reception venues. Just spruce up the outdoor location with a few decorations. Have a friend head over to the site beforehand to set up. In some cases, you can even have the ceremony at the location.
Speak with your wedding officiate to see if they are willing to perform an outdoor ceremony. Weddings can be expensive, but with a few cost cutting ideas, you can have a fantastic reception without spending a ton of money. Use your imagination, be flexible, and agree that the important thing is to share your special day with those who support you.
