Lyla Dejesus
Planning an outdoor wedding reception can be an expensive and budget-escalating undertaking. However, with a little research and planning, there are ways to keep costs in check. Firstly, consider the venue. Many inexpensive wedding locations have plenty of potential for a reception and may just need a little extra decorating. A backyard can be a cheap option, but if there's a chance of rain, you may need to rent a tent or canopy. Local clubs, firemen's associations, and recreation centers often have banquet halls with kitchens that are well-kept and inexpensive. When it comes to food, serving non-alcoholic drinks is the cheapest option. If you want to offer alcohol, limit the options to one type of beer or brand of champagne. Instead of expensive dishes like prime rib, opt for lower-cost, filling options like pasta. You can also save money by setting up self-serve food and drink stations. For entertainment, hiring a live band or DJ can be costly. Instead, create your own playlist and rent a PA system or use a Bluetooth speaker. Lastly, don't forget to mention the outdoor setting on your invitations so guests can dress accordingly and bring any necessary accessories or extra layers.
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What You'll Learn
Keep it simple and elegant
Keeping your outdoor wedding simple and elegant is a great way to save money without sacrificing style.
First, consider the venue. A backyard wedding can be a great way to save money, and there are many ways to elevate the space. If you or a friend have a spacious backyard, you can transform it into a sophisticated and intimate setting. You can utilise the front and backyard for different parts of the wedding, such as holding the ceremony in the front yard and the reception in the backyard. If you have a pool, you can use it as a visual focal point with a makeshift walkway serving as the aisle, or even build a dance floor over it.
If you don't have a backyard or are looking for a different outdoor venue, state and national parks can provide a scenic backdrop at a much lower cost than a private venue. However, you will need to obtain a special permit, and remember to factor in the costs of transportation for guests and vendors.
To create a simple yet elegant atmosphere, focus on a few key decorative elements. A wedding arch is an iconic and crafty DIY project that can be tailored to your colour scheme and theme. You can also source candles, greenery, and draping from independent local retailers or online vendors like Etsy, which tend to be cheaper than big-box retailers. Lighting is another way to create a romantic ambiance, with options like stringing bistro lights overhead or around the beams of a tent. If you're planning a rustic wedding, fire pits and cozy bonfires can provide a great atmosphere, and s'mores stations will be a hit for all ages.
To keep costs down, consider setting up self-serve food and drink stations. If you have culinary skills, you can even cook the food yourself, especially for smaller gatherings. For entertainment, you can curate your own playlist on music streaming apps and rent a PA system or use a Bluetooth speaker, which is much cheaper than hiring a DJ or band.
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Self-serve food and drink
When it comes to food, a simple country-style buffet is a good option. This could include dishes like salads, sandwiches, and vegetable trays, which are easy to prepare and can be made in advance. If you want to provide hot food, consider a one-pot meal like a pit-roasted hog, with sides such as roasted vegetables or mac and cheese. This is a more cost-effective option than a traditional sit-down meal. You could also ask your guests to contribute to a potluck-style barbecue, reducing the amount of food you need to provide.
For drinks, it's a good idea to provide a variety of options, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Beer and wine are often considered essential, and you could supplement these with premixed cocktails in spigot dispensers and non-alcoholic mocktails. To keep costs down, buy soft drinks in the weeks leading up to the wedding, purchasing them on sale. You could also ask guests to bring their own drinks, although this may not be suitable for all guests or fit all budgets.
To save money on catering, you can also opt for eco-friendly, single-use serving ware. This will reduce the cost and hassle of hiring and washing reusable plates and cutlery.
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Borrow decor
Borrowing decor is a great way to save money when planning an outdoor wedding reception. If you know any newlyweds, ask them if they still have their wedding decor and if you can borrow it. Newlyweds often don't want to throw away their decor, but they also don't want to store it long-term. Items like marbles, fishbowls, candles, and mirrors can be borrowed and used to decorate your wedding venue. Just make sure to get their permission before altering any of the borrowed items.
Another way to borrow decor is to ask your friends and family if they have any items that you can use. For example, you can borrow folding banquet tables from a friend and purchase the remaining tables you need. By pushing the tables together and covering them with linen tablecloths, you can create long and elegant dinner tables. You can also mix and match chairs to create a unique and eclectic look.
If you're looking for flowers to decorate your outdoor wedding reception, consider borrowing flowers from friends and family who have them growing in their gardens. You can also order flowers from a local wholesaler or use flowers from the grocery store and mix in faux flowers and greenery to create beautiful and affordable arrangements.
When it comes to creating a romantic ambiance at your outdoor wedding reception, consider borrowing string lights or lanterns from friends or family. These can be hung from trees or draped across the reception area to create a magical atmosphere.
Lastly, don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to borrowing decor. For example, if you need a wedding arch, you can build your own with your partner if you're crafty and have the right tools. You can also look for inspiration on Pinterest or at other weddings you attend, and then add your own unique touches to make it special. By borrowing decor and getting creative, you can have a beautiful and affordable outdoor wedding reception.
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Choose a cheap venue
Choosing a cheap venue for your outdoor wedding reception can be challenging, but with careful planning and flexibility, you can find the perfect spot without breaking the bank. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Backyard weddings: Hosting your wedding reception in your backyard or the backyard of a friend or family member is a great way to save costs. However, it's essential to consider the climate and the possibility of inclement weather. You may need to rent a reception tent or canopy to ensure your guests stay dry and comfortable. Also, don't forget to plan for logistics such as electrical hook-ups, guest restrooms, and food safety.
- Church halls: If you're planning a wedding in a church, consider booking the attached dining hall or commons area for your reception. These spaces often have kitchens and large dining areas, providing a convenient and affordable option.
- Club reception halls: Local clubs and organizations, such as AMVETS, 4-H clubs, firemen's associations, and recreation centers, often have small banquet halls with kitchens or kitchenettes. These venues are typically well-maintained and affordable, but be sure to check if they have enough tables and chairs for your guest count. There may also be alcohol restrictions or other rules to consider.
- Public parks: Opt for a public park for a scenic and budget-friendly option. Many parks offer beautiful backdrops for your celebration, and you can choose a location that aligns with your theme, such as a botanical garden or a spot overlooking a lake. However, keep in mind that you may need to obtain permits and provide portable restrooms for your guests.
- Alternative spaces: Think outside the box and explore unique venues that may offer discounted rates for weddings. For example, consider art galleries, community centers, museums, or even a friend's restaurant or cafe. These spaces can provide a beautiful and memorable setting without breaking the bank.
When choosing a cheap venue, it's essential to be mindful of hidden costs and additional expenses. Be sure to ask about what is included in the venue fee and factor in the cost of rentals, decorations, and any necessary permits. With careful planning and creativity, you can create a beautiful and affordable outdoor wedding reception.
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Save on music
Music is an integral part of any wedding reception, but it can also be one of the most expensive elements. Here are some ways to save money on music for your outdoor wedding:
Choose a Venue with Built-in Sound Equipment
If you can, opt for a venue that already has a sound system in place. This way, you won't need to rent or bring your own equipment, saving you money and hassle.
Create Your Own Playlist
Instead of hiring a DJ or band, create your own wedding playlist using music streaming apps like Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, or Pandora. This gives you full control over the music and can be a fun, personal way to set the mood for your big day.
Rent a PA System or Use a Bluetooth Speaker
If you need to amplify your self-created playlist, consider renting a PA system, which can be relatively inexpensive. Alternatively, if you're having a small gathering, a simple Bluetooth speaker might do the trick.
Limit the Number of Musicians
If you have your heart set on live music, consider hiring a solo musician or a small ensemble instead of a full band. Fewer musicians mean lower costs, and you can still create a beautiful, intimate atmosphere.
Ask Your Talented Friends and Family
Do you have any musically inclined friends or family members? Consider asking them to perform at your wedding. Not only will this save you money, but it will also add a unique and personal touch to your celebration.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the cost of music at your outdoor wedding reception without sacrificing the fun and joy that music brings to your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many inexpensive wedding locations with plenty of potential. You could host your reception in a backyard, a church dining hall, a club reception hall, or a banquet hall at a local AMVETS organization, 4-H club, or recreation centre.
You can source decor materials from independent local retailers or online vendors like Etsy. You can also borrow items like candles, mirrors, and fishbowls from friends and family. If you're crafty, you can even make your own decorations, like a wedding arch.
Food is one of the biggest expenses for wedding receptions, so consider making the food yourself if your guest list is small. You can serve dishes that can be held in crock pots or slow cookers, such as pasta, which is inexpensive and can fill a crowd. Keep drinks cheap by serving non-alcoholic options or limiting alcoholic choices to one type of beer or cocktail.
Hiring a live band or DJ can be expensive. Instead, create your own playlist using music streaming apps and rent a PA system or use a Bluetooth speaker. You can also organize low-cost wedding games like bride and groom trivia.
Be sure to mention the outdoor setting on your invitations so guests can dress appropriately. You may also need to rent restrooms, as well as a tent or canopy in case of rain.
