Need Reception Ideas Help! Desperately!
My fiance and I are getting married in one month and we are paying for everything as this is a second marriage for both of us. We met when we were 13 and 14 and although we never dated, we knew each other all through high school, (overseas), and then got together 27 years later. We, and our children, want a wedding. Not a JP or a trip to the courthouse clerk. We have our rings and bought my dress at a well-known bridal shop on sale for $99 (formal and ivory), and have found a wedding chapel in Chicago that will do a complete wedding, including the officiant and decorations for $500. Our problem is the reception. We have a friend that is a DJ, but we have only one month to find a location. Everyone seems to want around $4,000 for 100 guests, which includes dinner and a 4 hour open bar. However, we simply don`t have that kind of money. I would like to have a cocktail/hors d`oevres/dancing type of reception but have no idea of where I can find a location suitable for this and in such a short period of time. I really need some advice. Due to financial constraints, invitations can`t even go out yet, although our friends and family are aware of the date. Any advice you may have is appreciated, regardless of how small. Thanks in advance.
Posted by Lisa; updated 08/29/04
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I would suggest looking into the parks system wherever you are. Most have some places that have a lodge or a banquet hall and are not too expensive and would allow you to do the food yourself. The other thing is to look into clubs like the Elks, VA, etc. They are always willing to rent out their buildings for parties, etc. And aren`t that expensive and once again you can do the food yourself which will save you a ton of money. Try looking online for your city`s webpage and look under parks and recreation or tourism bureau for info. On places . Often if you look under their tourism section and you click on planning an event or convention it will take you to a list of places that would be great for a reception. Best of luck. (oh, i`m having my reception at the city hall in the town my family is from, it has a huge banquet room that was really cheap to rent, so it never hurts to call around and ask what`s out there, you never know what you`re going to find)
Posted by traci; updated 08/29/04
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I have found that many VFW`s and Legions are very cheap for a reception and include the bar and bartenders. Many of these places allow you to bring in your own foon also.
Posted by tracy; updated 09/03/04
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I`m not sure if it`s too late or not, but... I am in the chicago area and I can offer help. Email me at:
Mrslori_tomlinson@yahoo.com
Posted by Lori; updated 09/22/04
