Getting Married In July 2005
Hello all,
I am a little new to this message board thing. I have a few questions regarding this whole wedding thing. I guess i am one of the fortunate few to have most of the services I need provided almost free of charge if not totally free. My cousin who owns a photo studio will be doing my photos, a friend of mine will be doing video (he`s a professional), my good friend`s father is a pastor and will officiat the ceremony, and I have found a very reasonable DJ. The question is I am having a difficult time finding a reception location because I have a huge family and I don`t want to leave anyone out. If I were to invite all of my family and my fiance`s family we would probably have close to 300 people. There is no way I can feed 300 people especially since were paying for it ourselves. I want to have an elegant wedding yet without the huge cost that comes with it. Most of the places i`ve found want $45+ per person. Any help anyone could provide would be greatly appreciated.
Posted by Curlie; updated 06/10/04
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Where in the country is your wedding going to be? A lot of advice may be dependent on this.
Posted by Lauren; updated 06/10/04
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Try for a Friday or a Sunday night. Some places will give you about a 10% discount since they aren`t as busy those nights. And if you are having children, negotiate a price. See if they will make a more kid friendly menu for less, or give the children smaller portions of what the adults are eating and charge a smaller price.
Check into a place that allows outdoor catering and just rent the reception site and have a different caterer serve you. A good way to cut cost for that is by checking into your local vocational school or college for the culinary classes, you would be amazed how well these students do!
Posted by Brandy; updated 06/10/04
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Another thing you have to remember is that even if you invite 300, don`t expect it!!
Posted by Beth; updated 06/11/04
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Good point. It is safe to assume that 10-25% won`t come. The longer the travel distance, the higher % they won`t come.
And I know it is hard not to include some people, but recheck your guest list. Since my FH and I have been together 9 yrs, our guest list has changed numerous times, and will probably do so again before we get married in two years. For those people that you are sure will not come or are important but not a total must have, send them announcements.
Or have a more simple but elegant reception. Have just hors d`oevres and drinks.
Do A LOT of research and negotiation, you will be able to find the place of your dreams for the budget you can afford. Check out fireyourwedding planner.com
Posted by Brandy; updated 06/11/04
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Don`t feel obligated to give your guests a full sit down dinner. Many brides are choosing to do light/heavy hors d`ourves. If you`re having a mid-morning or afternoon wedding you could try a tea or luncheon. For an evening wedding do a dessert reception, with lots of varieties of desserts and fruits. (if you opt for the evening dessert reception you may want to note this on the invite. "Dessert and Dance Reception" or something similar, just so people will make sure to eat ahead of time).
If you do go ahead with the dinner reception, a buffet is usually cheaper.
Remember that your guests aren`t there for a free meal, but to see you and your fiance tie the knot. So personally, I wouldn`t suggest skimming the guest list. You want the people you love and care about to be a part of this special day so invite as many as you want. Remember they will come because of you, not food or anything else!
Posted by Kaytee; updated 06/11/04
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I wouldn`t feel obligated to invite everyone you know. Maybe go over your list (if you haven`t sent invitations yet) and cut a few people. My husband and I are renewing our vows, (we eloped), and we are only inviting close friends and family. Also, for food, we are having a huge bbq. We have a friend who is a caterer, but he is doing it for us for free. Then as far as the rest of the food other than meat, we are having like a potluck style with his parents, my parents, and other family. Just an idea.
Good Luck with your planning!!!!
Posted by Christi; updated 06/11/04
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Thanks everyone for the wonderful advice. The wedding will be taking place in FL. I have been thinking about having the reception at my alma mater. It`s just a matter of going down and talking to the events director.
I have also though about having a luncheon recepetion but that would mean I have to get married at about 10 am. Did not like that idea too much. I think the Friday or Sunday idea is great.
Thanks again!
Posted by Curlie; updated 06/13/04
