We hope so, at least as far as our friends and families are concerned. As many of you know, Ellie and I like to entertain--we LOVE to entertain, and we want to ensure that our reception reflects that love. This means it's going to probably be the biggest expense we have. We've been looking at places online, and it's crazy overwhelming. I had no idea there was so much involved.
Venue: Do we have the entire thing in a hotel? We're having a LOT of out-of-town guests from several states, so this makes the most sense (not to mention it allows people to drink without having to worry about a DD), but non-hotel venues have way better grounds. We obviously have the option to have the ceremony at one place and the reception in a hotel, but that's honestly a pain in the arse.
Food: Plated dinner or buffet? We both prefer the plated dinner, but it's pricier than a buffet. Then again, from the prices we HAVE been able to find, the savings aren't THAT different. However, the savings would still help a lot.
Alcohol: We want an open bar for at least most of the reception, but that is SUPER expensive!! I'd love to do some kind of "Open Bar to a Set $$ Amount" but haven't seen price estimates for that option. Also, if we're not at a hotel, we really have to face the issue of DD's and ensuring our guests get "home" safely.
Music: We're in agreement about getting a DJ rather than a band--DJ's just have better selection and it's only one mouth to feed rather than four or five.
I looked at a place (a hotel) on Tuesday; it's down the street from a friend's place and I was over there for a photoshoot, so we had lunch and looked around. There are some flaws, like the really pretty patio having the pool located on one end and rooms overlooking the area. It's probably still going to be on the short list, and we haven't spoken to anyone, which is a definite for any venue we look at. I know there is still plenty of time, but it's all stuff that needs to be thought of and I don't want to put it off too long without at least thinking about it all--the more decisions that can be made early, the better.
We have found recently that local hotels often provide a shuttle service to local reception venues. That way you don't need to worry about a DD.
ReplyDeleteAlso, plated is often very close in price to a buffet. Only slightly more expensive.
You can easily keep control your alcohol budget. Only offering beer and wine is one way. Or offering a "limited open bar" is another.
We are providing our own alcohol. I'll let you know what our bill turns out to be. It will be an open bar, but it won't necessarily have everything everyone wants.
Just some ideas. We can talk when you are visiting next.
I'd love to find a place that will let us provide our own alcohol, but MA has much stricter alcohol rules than most other states.
ReplyDeleteGood to know about hotel shuttles, it's something we'll have to look at when we start the search.
Joe nailed it on the head. Since you'll probably have a "few" out-of-towners, you can probably negotiate group rates at your preferred hotel for your guests. Then they're very willing to work with you on shuttles. (^_^)
ReplyDeleteI know it's overwhelming, but don't limit yourself this early. As you look, you'll figure out what you like/dislike and it'll narrow itself down pretty quickly.
Few...yeah, that's it :P
ReplyDeleteI'm trying to not limit yet, but I'm a planner. I like being able to look now since we DO have so much time. I just have to keep that time in mind and not WANT to rush and settle things yet. Thanks!
Josh's sister was married at the Horticultural Society in Wellsley. Her family purchased their own wine and beer and had one signature drink that fit the bride and groom's personality (I belive apple martini's?). Not sure if a hotel will do that though but something to think about!
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