Pictured: Jason & Robyn in his parents' backyard (Tulalip, WA)
So where will you decide to hold your ceremony and reception without blowing a good portion of your budget? Many couples are turning to more cost effective venues.
Have you considered asking a relative or close friend to hold your ceremony and/or your reception at their home, say, in their backyard? Or, do you have family members who belong to a club or have a membership somewhere that can be rented at a reduced cost? Better yet, what sites do your city Parks & Recreation department have available? All of these are ideas that can be utilized when searching for a site to hold your celebration at.
Let's look at the possibility of holding your ceremony at your parents' home, another family member or close friend's. For the cost of landscaping, a backyard can be transformed to create a great wedding venue. You'd be suprised how sometimes all it takes a homeowner is a reason to get the yard in tip-top shape! Do you have a green thumb or is your fiance good with yard tools? Offer to do the work yourselves. Who wouldn't resist the offer of free labor??
Thinking of a gift idea to thank the host of your celebration? Consider a few options. How about a new outdoor grill? What about patio furniture that has been talked about? Or, a weekend away for the hosts to enjoy. These ideas might sound pricy but consider that a thank you gift of a few hundred dollars is an inexpensive alternative to putting down hundreds of dollars on a rented space.
Let's talk about another option; clubs. I can't tell you how many times I've had couples who have utilized the membership benefits of a family member or friend to get a reduced cost on their venue. Does Dad have a membership to a country club? Are Grandma & Grandpa long-time Eagle members? How about your favorite Uncle Bill and his membership at the sailing club?
Do you live in an apartment complex? (Stay with me on this one......) Many apartment communities have a rec room or cabana that is available to their tenants, with advance notice, AT NO COST. Yes, you read it right! Often times these spaces also have restrooms for your guests, small kitchenettes to prepare food for the reception afterwards nevermind furniture and media centers. These are just a few examples of places that I have performed weddings at. Ask around and see what your options are.
Ok, so what city do you live in? Have you checked with your city's parks & rec department for venues available for rent? Many times, if you are living within the city limits, the parks & rec department will offer a discount on their facility rentals. For example, Everett's Parks & Rec has such facilities as Legion Hall, Floral Hall at Forest Park and Evergreen Arboretum. Kirkland as their famous pavillion. Most cities post their rental rates on their websites. Don't forget the many parks that are found tucked away in the many counties throughout Washington state. All you have to do is take a look!
Keep in mind that there are beautiful and affordable options for you. I have pictures of some of these sites on my website at www.upbeatweddingofficiant.com
Happy hunting!
