Saving Money at Your Wedding Reception
The first thing people should think about when considering a cost-effective wedding reception is the day that it will be held on. Saturday is by far the most expensive day to hold a reception, with Friday coming in second. Many people worry that there are less likely to show up to a weekday event, but many folks prefer their weekends to open to their own activities. Weekday evenings would be a perfect time throw a cost-effective reception if at all possible. Better yet, a weekday evening between the months of November and April will ensure you the best rates available, as you are avoiding the higher peak season rates.
Second, choose a location that will allow you to serve your own alcoholic beverages. Many locations depend on alcohol sales as their main source of income when it comes to receptions. Also, if alcohol is not that important to event, forgoing a full bar and serving only beer and wine will help your budget out tremendously.Let the guests toast with the drink that they have in hand, instead of purchasing champagne for everyone.
Third, instead of hiring a band, opt for a DJ . A DJ. will charge will signifigantly less than a band, and will often play more variety. You can also choose not to hire anyone, bring your own music and stereo, and have a good friend keep the music rolling. However, if you are going to choose your own music, make sure you have a clear sounding and dependable stereo to use.
Fourth, trim down your guest list. This can be stressful and even downright difficult for some to do, but having too many guests may break a budget. The first people to cross off your list are the ones that may only come out of obligation. For example, if your friend’s brother’s uncle’s third cousin was on the invitation, then there would probably not be any hurt feelings if you took him off the list.Keep your guest list limited to those close to you, and to those that are looking forward to being a part of your ceremony.
Fifth, contact local colleges or schools and inquire about student photographers. There are many talented photography students that would love the chance to gain the experience of photographing a wedding reception. The great thing about this is that students usually charge less than half of what a professional photgrapher would charge. Ask professors and teachers if they have any recommendations of who would be the best match for the job. Also, if possible, and if you are lucky, a friend or relative may a be whiz with the camera and photograph for free. Another wonderful tip is to simply place disposable cameras on each table where the guests will be seated. You can come away with some wonderful candids and save bundles of money.
Last but not least, recruit your friends to help you decorate your reception area. Buy white Christmas lights (or whichever color that you prefer) days after Christmas or in off season. These same type of lights are offered in wedding catalogs, yet you can get your own at a local store for less than half the price. Keep d�©cor as simple as possible, and have friends with an artistic ability spark things up.
