Food & Drinks
How to save money
Daytime affair
Opt for a wedding brunch or luncheon reception instead of dinner, which is typically much more expensive.
Cocktail hour
Skip the full meal and celebrate with tasty refreshments instead—an option that works best for a celebration after a 2 p.m. ceremony (not dinnertime). Or host an afternoon tea or a late afternoon/early-evening cocktail reception.
Course cutting
If you have your heart set on a seated meal, cut back the number of courses from five to three.
Smaller selection
Ask guests to select their meal preferences on the RSVP cards so caterers can plan ahead, or choose a pasta or protein dish that you think has the broadest appeal.
Top quality
Keep the menu simple and focus on quality ingredients. Ask your caterer to use in-season produce from local farms.
Kid friendly
Order an inexpensive kids' menu for the children's table at your reception. Chances are they'd much rather have a cheeseburger and fries than foie gras, anyway.
BYOB
See if your caterer will let you bring your own liquor. (Be sure to ask about corkage fees.)
The basics
Limit your bar offerings to wine and beer. Liquor (especially premium bands) can add a wallop to your bar tab.
Size matters
Keep your guest list to a manageable number.
