Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding - Potluck Wedding Reception

Even in a tumultuouseconomy, couples are still hosting wedding celebrations. How are they doing it? They are coming up with very creative ways of saving. One way is a potluck wedding reception!

In the late 1960's, the potluck reception was briefly very popular. It was acceptable for families to come together to assist the couple on one of their "biggest moments!" Now, with the bad economy and the DIY (Do It Yourself) wedding trends, the potluck reception is making a comeback!

Do you think having a potluck reception is tacky? Well, there is a controversy on whether or not having a potluck wedding reception is acceptable. Some people feel that, if you are inviting a guest, that you shouldn't expect a gift and ask your guests to bring their own food. Others feel that it makes their reception "extra" special enjoying grandma's famous apple pie! If you do decide to have a potluck reception, I highly recommend that your reception should be a very casual, intimate gathering of very close family and friends. I also suggest that you have someone tell your guests that their dish is your gift! Whichever way you think is right, you could look at it this way: this kind of reception is bringing the focus back to what is really important - - the marriage!

A potluck reception could be an enjoyable affair! First, this type of reception creates a very casual and relaxing environment. Who won't like to come to an event and be their true comfortable selves? Second, people do enjoy helping others. Close family and friends enjoy in partaking in the planning of your very "special day." Third, guests sharing their favorite recipes with each other will even get strangers "engaged" in conversation! Finally, think of the variety of food that could be offered! Having such a large selection would have cost you a "pretty penny," if you have hired a caterer!

How to go about having a potluck reception? Don't want to end up with ten potato salads and nothing else? I suggest that you appoint someone to orchestrate who brings what, the serving size of the dish, storage, serving, and returning the dishware. I also recommend that you supply the main dish, wedding cake, and beverages for your guests. Want grandma's apple pie recipe? Have your guests write out their recipe out on a recipe card for you!

What should the wording be on your wedding invitations? "Potluck Reception to Follow," will work! Or, since your wedding invitation is more likely to be very casual you could also say, "Please bring favorite dish and recipe, too!" However, never state anything about wedding gifts on your invitations! Have someone else suggest to your guests that you want them to bring a dish, instead of a gift. Or, have that designated person tell them where you are registered.

Whether you think that potluck wedding receptions are acceptable or not, couples are deciding to have potluck wedding receptions. Who wouldn't enjoy an affordable, casual, comfortable, and intimate celebration with those closest to you? And if anything, it brings the focus to where it should be - - family, friends, and your union! Bon a petite!

Sources:

Amber Dusick, "Catering Your Own Wedding with a Potluck Reception," www.do-it-yourself-weddings.com

Potluck reception, http://boards.weddingbee.com/topic/potluck-reception