Ideas for Wedding Receptions on a Budget

The dress, the limousines, the honeymoon in Fiji. Getting married costs a ton of money. In fact, according to costofwedding.com, the average wedding in the US now costs $26,800. About half of that steep figure is spent on a wonderful wedding reception to celebrate the bride and groom's new union. Between the caterers, the fancy reception hall rental, and the elaborate cake, the expenses can be deafening. However, there are some great reception ideas that are both fun and can help defray the cost of your big day.

If you're in close proximity to a beach and you're planning your wedding during one of the more seasonable months of the year, this sort of reception is a gorgeous option. A tent rental is a good idea in case of rain, but it is still an affordable option since with most beaches you will save on the costly hall rental. Seashell centerpieces can keep with the theme, but a great deal of decoration is usually unnecessary for this type of reception because of the wonderful oceanic backdrop is all the eye candy your guests need. Also, be sure to check out any local seafood markets for cheap food fares for your menu. An informal clam bake would save you a ton of dough over the standard caterers and white gloved servers.

Second, an English garden part is an elegant daytime reception that is oftentimes easy on the pocketbook. A simple menu of sandwiches, fruit salads, and tea can be light on the wallet and a cinch to prepare. Search in your local phone book for botanical gardens or nice parks for your reception venue. Most parks will charge a small fee for the use of their facilities, but they also have pavilions and building to use that will save on tent, table, and chair rental. The key to a nice garden reception is beautiful flowers and greenery. Pick a location with colorful landscaping so that you don't have to compensate with a great deal of additional flowers that can be rather expensive.

Lastly, while informal, a backyard barbeque can be the best reception option for those of us on a shoestring budget. A park can be used just as with the English garden party, but to save even further you can transform your own backyard into your party spot. Caterers are definitely not needed, but a willing father or uncle will need to serve as the BBQ master of ceremonies. Inform the friends and family that your reception is B.Y.O.B. and that coolers are encouraged, which almost eliminates your alcohol bill other than a few bottles of champagne for toasting. Decorations can be anywhere from elaborated to simplistic. Flowers, beautiful centerpieces, and lots of candles are all great options and give guests the opportunity to take home a memento from your event. While this may not be considered a fairy tale reception, these informal celebrations are usually the most fun and memorable. Just be sure to invite the neighbors so that no one calls the police if you get a little too loud.

If your budget is small, it doesn't mean that you have to forgo a beautiful reception. With a little creativity and planning, your event can rival the fun and memories shared at even the most extravagant events.