Once brides begin to plan their weddings they quickly discover that it is not the ceremonies that will hit them hard in their purses, but their receptions. Reception costs quickly add up and it may seem that the budget is quickly sliding out of control.

Yet, all is not lost because we have compiled five easy ways to slash your reception’s expenses.
1. Plan an out-of-season ceremony. Just like airline fares can increase or decrease according to peak flying times, so too can wedding receptions. Planning your wedding for the fall or winter can dramatically reduce your cost. Do you have your heart set on a spring or summer wedding? Well, all is not lost. You can still save money by planning your ceremony during a weekday or Sunday, just avoid Saturday, since it is the most expensive day to get married.
2. Minimize the full bar. As any good partier knows, alcohol is expensive. It is even more expensive if you have a full bar with an extensive alcohol list. Instead, opt to reduce costs by only offering beer, wine and a signature cocktail OR throw a cocktail reception. Guests will be able to indulge and it doesn’t require an inventory that rivals a five-star restaurant.
3. Purchase in-season flowers. Flowers are remarkably expensive. The reason is that many brides choose flowers that need to be imported. Instead, choose in-season, local flowers to decorate your ceremony and reception venues. They are a fraction of the cost and are just as beautiful.
4. Trim the guest list. Brides should know that simply adding one guest to the list can increase her reception’s cost up to $20 or more. Some sit-down receptions can even cost $100 per person. To avoid this from happening, you must edit your guest list. For example, a bride can choose to have 150 guests and a cocktail reception or invite 50 guests and have a luxurious, sit-down reception with all of the bells and whistles.
5. Have larger tables. It’s funny how something so small can have such a big impact. If you incorporate larger tables, you will cut costs by reducing the number of centerpieces you will need as well as tablecloths. It’s a quick and easy way to save money and larger tables encourage guests to mingle more.

Weddings can be very expensive affairs, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Knowing when and how to cut costs can enable any bride to have the wedding she wants. Follow these tips and before long you will have a budget-friendly reception.

- Guest Post Via Natalie Tsang of Simply Bridal

Simply Bridal is an online retailer of quality wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and bridal accessories. In addition to providing an excellent, worry-free purchase experience, they also create bridal resources and content.

Photograph provided by Berrytree Photography
Image from CCW Southern Vintage Inspired Shoot by Molly McKinley as seen on SMP