So— short of it is— I have always wanted a woodsy outdoor wedding but my fiancé is Catholic and he very much wants to get married in the Catholic Church— it is the only thing he is asking for and I am willing to do it… except I don’t get my outside venue.
And to be honest I am a little sad about it but trying to be creative about the reception venue in lieu of this.The parish we are getting married in is in the city… and my most ideal places for the reception are out in the country. I have finally, at least cognitively, let go of the idea of doing a ceremony and reception that are far from each other (I am a transplant so I will have a lot of people traveling).
I found places in STL where I can have the enchanting vibe — but they are on the expensive side. We only have a budget of 15k-18k. We want between 120 and 150 ppl there.
The affordable places that people are throwing out to me— are banquet halls and no —- most of them are ugly. I also have considered just renting a pavilion in a park— but I feel that would put way too much labor on people. I am feeling some pressure from my parents to compromise but I already compromised on something super big in agreeing to getting married in the Catholic Church— so I want my reception to at least air on the dreamy outdoor side. I am finding myself having to make emotional boundaries when people act like I am tightly wound on this. I have made progress in my openness with venues but I don’t want to later resent letting go of some of my dreams for this day. People can say what they will that weddings are about the relationships and the people, and you and your partner… but I am a very aesthetic person so it’s also important to me!
1. One venue that I really like and is close to the parish includes the catering and bar together— with everything it comes to 80 per person with the rental fee of 2500 and the service fee. My best friend has been helping me with venues and is a big budgeter and she thinks this is a good deal. Another person in my wedding party thinks we can go a LOT cheaper. I know this is mine and my partner’s decision— but I am very green to wedding planning (and bad with money) and I need more feedback as to if this would fit for a budget of 15-18k.
2. Does anyone know of any wedding venues in STL that are affordable but also very lovely? I would like for indoor/outdoor space. Remember we are talking about a 15-18k budget. Thanks in advance for any leads.
PS plz no advice besides what I am asking— just talking about the emotional journey to give context. Thank you!
