Honesty

A lot of people who can’t afford a reception will forego a full meal in favor of just cake and punch or appetizers only during an hour that won’t fall in when meals are normally taken

I agree with pp! You can definitely do a cocktail/appetizer style reception (just make sure you have that somewhere in your invitations so guest can prepare appropriately) or, if you're open to a ceremony earlier in the day, there are options like a brunch wedding which have good potential to be less expensive than a larger dinner!

Where are you in Florida? I live in Florida and maybe can help. What size is your guest list? Msg me if needed.

You’re not required to host a reception at all and please don’t if it will be a financial hardship.


If you’d like a lower cost reception, just plan it for a non meal time, like ceremony at 1:30, reception 2-4. Just serve drinks, cake, and maybe light finger food or party platters prepurchased at Costco or a local restaurant rather than full on catering. If you’d like to have a full meal at reception, consider a brunch or lunch reception on a non Saturday in the off season.