Budget Friendly Reception Alternatives

If you are thinking of doing something other than the traditional sit down dinner or buffet wedding reception take a look below.  These tips are fun and less expensive than your formal wedding reception which means SAVINGS.

Give your guests something to talk about.  Look into some of these reception alternatives and leave a comment about what you think.

Now, Let's Get Inspired!

1. Cocktail Reception
A beautiful formal wedding followed by an elegant cocktail reception. You can choose to have your hor dourves set up buffet style or passed.  In either case, this will give you time to mingle with your guests instead of sitting for an hour and a half with a formal sit down dinner.

Assorted beverages can be served throughout the reception. If you like you can still have the traditional bouquet toss, first dance, garter removal, etc. Hire a DJ or have a small trio for dancing and background music.

P.S.  Make sure you note on your invites that you are having a cocktail reception.  You don't want your guests expecting a full meal only to be disappointed and hungry.

2. Brunch Wedding Reception
There are several advantages to having a brunch.  The cost is less expensive than a sit down dinner.  If the venue you chose is popular, you probably can find an opening during the day.

Since it's during the day your guests probably will not drink as much.  Try serving serving wine and champagne only.

Another advantage is a brunch usually does not last as long as an evening event.  Again, you can still have the traditional events during the reception you just save on costs.    

3.  Dessert Wedding Reception
Plan on having this in the late afternoon or early evening. Your choice of venues should be wide open.

Make sure you let your planner know you want several different tables set up buffet style.  You may want to have a table specifically for plates, napkins, and flatware leaving the other tables for all your delectable delights.