Tent vs venue

You really have to check prices in your area. From what I've seen, most couples find that by the time you count all the rentals and the set-up and delivery costs, a tent reception is seldom less expensive than a regular venue.

It very well could cost as much or more if you're having to rent everything. Our reception is outdoors at a museum so we've had to rent everything. It's costing us about 2500 in rentals. Also, if you're having a caterer come and cook food there, you'll have to rent all the kitchen equipment too. Something I didn't realize when I booked our place. That said, if you love the location then it might be worth it. I couldn't imagine getting married anywhere other than where we booked.

I am having a tent reception. How many guest? Do a side by side comparison. We did and all the all inclusive venues we looked at had maximum & minimum guest count. W/ everyone we were afraid we either have too many ppl or it wouldn't be worth it due to the "extras" lots of venues have upcharges for things you think were included like for one place adding real plates was $3pp. And another place to get alcohol you actual heard of in the bar (no even top shelf) $8pp extra. So just compare. We are looking at about 3500 for rentals (tables, chairs, linens, glassware, dancefloor, delivery and tent). For us its worth it bc most places cant accommodate and unknown 200+ guest unless with a hotel w/ totaling 20%+ in taxes and service fees. The you only get the venue 3 or 4 hours. That was too much pressure for us and w/ 70% of guest from oot we didn't want to miss an hour of paid time w/ everyone getting to the reception.

Don't forget you may need to add heaters or fans.

What about doing the ceremony in the chapel and then moving everyone to a reception venue.

We found we could get great venues at a fraction of the cost of renting the tent and all the extras. Which was sad, because I love tent weddings - but the upside is we have a beautiful venue that needs little decorations and includes tables and chairs and was less then $500, which for me meant I could put a live harpist back on the table or include more food for my guests. :-)

It's really not a way to save money, could be beautiful and meaningful being on your grandparents property.

When FH and I began planning, we decided on a tent reception. After all the costs of tent, walls, lighting, tables, chairs, and much more, we realized a venue was a better way to go. However, we had a giant tent because our wedding was at 75 people. Now we are at 30 and felt a tent felt silly for such a small amount of people (personal preference). It just depends how big of a tent and what all you need for it.

It sounds lovely and meaningful to your family, but honestly going this route is rarely less expensive.

Don't forget to rent bathrooms!

And...no idea where you're located, but outside in February?

I didn't even notice February. You will definitely need heaters too.

I'm in Orlando

We have done them. Start with two things; catering and tent/event rental. We handle rentals and coordinate with the tent company for the client. Not all caterers will do that. If you have a caterer that does, it can save you a lot of legwork. If they don't, it is usually cheaper to get all rentals through the rental company. When I say all rentals, I mean dishes, glassware, tables, chairs even linen. You still may consider a few heaters, depending on the weather.

I will repeat what others have said, this isn't a cost saving sort of measure. Most often, it is more expensive.