Some alternatives to your standard wedding reception

Forty percent of a wedding budget can be spent on the receptions online.  At least that's what the experts are saying when figuring out your budget.

For the lucky ladies out there whom have $20,000.00 to $40,000.00 to spend on their wedding , please know that I applaud you.  However, if you're like me, then that would be impossible, especially with the economy right now.  Instead, I'm thinking less than $5,000.00 for everything.  Sound impossible? Let's hope it's not, and to top it off... I hope it turns out fabulous!

So, what's a girl to do to try and get those wedding expenses down?  First things first, time to trim the fat on unnecessary reception costs.  Better yet, let me share with you some of my recent finds on the different type of receptions that are out there.  Maybe one of these suggestions will be worth exploring.

Cake and Champagne / Dessert Reception

This reception idea is great, especially if you're spending a ton on your wedding cake.  In addition to saving money on other food costs it would be suitable for a after dinner reception.  This of course means wedding ceremonies that start in the evening after 7:00 pm.  

Or if you have a sweet tooth, then perhaps a all dessert reception might be another option.  Instead of having only cake and champagne, you could pair the cake with other pies and pastries.  Plus served with coffee and tea service, and this would still be an economical choice.  Especially if you're planning on your guests eating dinner before arriving. 

Also, I read this online that celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck has made his recommendations for such a offering at your reception.  He suggested the following ideas:

• Assortment of Cheeses and Fresh Fruit
• Petit Fours
• Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
• NY Style Cheesecake Squares
• Heart Shaped Red Sugared Buttermilk Cakes with Crème Fraiche and Strawberries
• Tiramisu Cups
• Wedding Cake
• Champagne, Soft Drinks, Sparking Water, Coffee, Tea

So, as you can see... a cake/ dessert reception can be as simple or fancy as you'd like to make it.

Images courtesy of www.fayeandgreer.blogspot.com

Hors D'oeuvres

 Reception

My fiance, Emery and I really like this idea.  Not only is it less expensive than a buffet or sit down dinner, but they sky is the limit depending on what you serve.  A word of caution... some hor dourves can really cost you, so not all are created equal.  If you're thinking lobster, shrimp, and fillet Mignon, then you might as well offer a full meal, because the cost may be comparable. 

However, if you can keep the finger foods light, and opt for items like marinated mushrooms, olives, veggie platter, cheese and crackers, then this could cost a lot less.  Also, since my future hubby is a chef, we are thinking of the season we're getting married in to help keep things seasonal.  Seasonal veggies and herbs taste better and are also priced less.

Some ideas to consider if you're getting married in the summer.

• stuffed cherry tomatoes
• fresh brushetta made with garden fresh tomatoes and crusty bread
• veggie platter with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, etc.
• cucumber finger sandwiches.  Crustless white bread with a smear of cream cheese and finely slice cucumbers.
• mango salsa or chutney with cilantro
• fresh figs with goat cheese, or ricotta sprinkled with toasted nuts
• fruit kabobs - watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries
• watermelon slices drizzled with honey
• chocolate dipped strawberries

Image courtesy of www.blog.cateringcreations.com

So ladies, you don't have to spend a ton to have a gorgeous wedding.  Just be creative, and do what you like.  Both of these examples would be great.