This is the second in our series of slashing the costs of your wedding and reception. You can find part one here.

Trim the Guest List
This is the hardest thing to do, but the fact of the matter is that a whopping 25% of your list is not going to show up, even though they sent an RSVP. That is 25% of your dinner costs, wedding reception favors, seating costs, invitations, etc. So, make sure you focus the invites for the people who are vested in showing up – like family and very close friends.
Get Creative with Food Costs
Buffets are the usual way to slash the food budget, but they are still very expensive. The food is usually very good still. But you can do even better with a theme wedding.
Book a food truck for your wedding. If you’re having a traditional Mexican wedding, have a Mexican food truck at your outdoor wedding! Guests can order exactly what they like and it fits perfectly with your theme. Food trucks are super popular these days and there are so many ethnic choices. It should be easy matched to your wedding theme.
Go Eco-Friendly with Flowers
There is another way to use a florist – get their flower petal scraps to use instead of throwing rice!
For decorating tables flowers are flowers. You might want red roses on the wedding couple’s table. For the rest of the tables go with hand-picked wildflowers from your favorite meadow. You can pick them a day or two before the wedding and keep them in buckets of water. Wildflowers are just as beautiful and they set a more natural look.
Forget About Typical Party Favors
Sadly, many guests leave favors behind—so skip them and have edible options like pretty packaged cookies, fine chocolates or even homemade jams.

Villa Ragusa is Here to Help

Be sure to ask us about how to save on our inhouse catering and booking dates! We give large discounts for our typically show times on the schedule. Talk to our Event Coordinator today.