Mike's Money Tips

Ideas for Wedding Receptions on a Budget

wedding receptions on a budget

You're getting married? Congratulations!

It's such a wonderful time and it can be so much fun. But it can cost you a fortune too.

Between the wedding dress, limos, food, flowers, and music, you can easily drop tens of thousands of dollars on a wedding.

You're smart for looking for ideas for wedding receptions on a budget.

You don't have to spend a fortune to have a beautiful and memorable wedding. Let's look at a few ways that other bride and grooms have thrown wedding receptions on a budget:

If you live near the coast and are getting married in the warmer months, a wedding on the beach is perfect. The sound of waves crashing into the beach sets the mood and a spectacular ocean backdrop makes for stunning pictures. How about a clam bake and late night bonfire? You'll save a fortune over more formal affairs.

If the beach is too far or you just don't like getting sand all over you, getting married in a park is a good alternative. Look for a park that's clean with lots of scenic views. You won't need to spend much on a florist if you choose a site already loaded with lots of greenery and flowers.

For those on a real shoestring budget, a backyard barbecue can be the best option. One of the best weddings I ever attended was in my friend's backyard. It was informal and cozy, and the food was fantastic (My buddy's dad is from Texas...and he knows how to GRILL!!).

Obviously you'll need a yard that's large enough to fit your guests and tidy enough to not embarrass you. Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and hide the gardening tools in the shed. You should also consider renting a tent in case the weather doesn't work out the way you plan.

More Money Saving Tips for Weddings

I've just given you three different options for throwing wedding receptions on a budget. But there's a lot more to planning a wedding on a small budget than just location:

1. Who pays for wedding expenses? This is an important concern for many couples. If your families offer to help great. If not, you'll have to start saving some serious cash ASAP!

2. Food. Buffets are usually much cheaper than sit-down dinners, and many guests prefer buffets because they get to try out all of the dishes instead of just one.

3. Music. Live bands are great, but going with a DJ can easily save you a couple grand. If you can't live without live music, try to find a college band that will play for less money.

4. Flowers. Using flowers that are in season can save you a bundle. Out of season varieties may have to be shipped halfway around the world and you'll be footing the bill.

5. Video and Photo. Prices vary wildly from one vendor to another. Shop around before making a choice, and ALWAYS ask to see samples of their work. Also make sure you meet with the person who will actually be working your wedding. You'll eliminate potential personality conflicts later.

6. Transportation. Skip the Hummer and Rolls Royce models (and don't even think about a horse-drawn carriage). These specialty choices will cost you an arm and a leg. Stick with the standard limo and save the money for somethinig else.

Planning a wedding on a small budget does create some challenges. You may have to make some tough choices and eliminate something you really want, but the money saving tips for weddings I just gave you will help.

and remember money isn't everything. Wedding receptions on a budget can be just as fun and memorable.

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