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steebsthegreat
Dedicated July 2017

What kind of reception following elopement?

steebsthegreat, on April 10, 2016 at 1:41 PM Posted in Etiquette and Advice 0 17

My fiancé and I are planning to elope next June.

I've recently been thinking that our families (mainly our mothers) would probably appreciate any sort of reception or celebration once we return from our elopement/honeymoon, however one of the reasons we're choosing to elope is because we really don't see the sense in spending tons of money on one huge wedding ceremony and reception (especially when we're paying for it on our own).

Recommendations on inexpensive reception options? We're thinking like a brunch at a restaurant or maybe a barbecue picnic somewhere local. Probably keeping it at or under $40/pp.

17 Comments

Latest activity by Julie, on March 18, 2018 at 4:16 AM
  • 2016beachwedding
    VIP October 2016
    2016beachwedding ·
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    Sunday-thursday will be less expensive but you have to work out the whole oot people on weekday options. You could do cake and punch ?

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  • Celia Milton
    Celia Milton ·
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    You're spot on, as is 2016. I love brunch or lunch in a restaurant. We recommend loads of nice little restaurants that will do a small party on a Sunday morning or a Saturday afternoon. You can limit the menu and drinks, and it'll be great!

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  • N
    Devoted May 2016
    N ·
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    My sister did this. They had a reception during lunch in our moms backyard. They had a taco truck for the food. Just had music playing, no dancing. It was just low key get together. It was maybe $2000 to $3000 after food, alcohol/drinks, table, chairs, minimal decorations.

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  • GrumpyCatRebecca
    VIP September 2016
    GrumpyCatRebecca ·
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    How many people are you expecting? I think that might dictate what's easier to do. For a larger group it might be easier to do a BBQ in the park type thing than a restaurant.

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  • K
    Devoted December 2016
    Kayla ·
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    A potluck

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  • Jacks
    Champion November 2054
    Jacks ·
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    That's sounds like a great idea! Brunch is probably more cost effective.

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  • destiny
    Devoted May 2017
    destiny ·
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    Brunch sounds like a good idea. I'm eloping myself and was trying to figure out what to do after our vows. A brunch sounds like a go to me.

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  • Mrs. Knolle
    Master July 2016
    Mrs. Knolle ·
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    Brunch sounds good.

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  • Sunni
    VIP May 2016
    Sunni ·
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    If someone has a large enough home, backyard space for what you're thinking I'd do a relaxed bbq or taco truck party in the afternoon. Just prove beer and wine. Restaurants can get pricey--especially the bar tab. Our small reception will be at a restaurant, so I know.

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  • Chloe
    Super October 2015
    Chloe ·
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    Don't do a potluck. That's asking for trouble. @Kayla...four stars and you're suggesting a potluck?

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  • MrsBest2B
    Master June 2016
    MrsBest2B ·
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    Yes to a brunch/lunch. NO to potluck! That is bad advise

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  • annakay511
    Master July 2015
    annakay511 ·
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    You definitely could do a lunch/brunch at a restaurant for about $40/pp! Our RD cost a little less than that at a nice restaurant. You could buy a white sundress and I think your moms and families would really enjoy it!

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  • FutureMrsW
    Expert December 2016
    FutureMrsW ·
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    I love brunch! My favorite. Or, you could go gourmet pizza.

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  • 2016beachwedding
    VIP October 2016
    2016beachwedding ·
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    Do not Do a potluck!

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  • Mrs.Young
    Expert April 2017
    Mrs.Young ·
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    Say no to potluck! Brunch is a a great idea!

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  • BrideMeg
    Super September 2016
    BrideMeg ·
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    Brunch would be a great idea! Mimosas mimosas mimosas!!!

    How many people are you looking to invite? I would check with local restaurants to see if they have a room you can rent and have brunch/lunch served. They may be able to provide deserts too in lieu of a wedding cake.

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  • J
    Just Said Yes September 2018
    Julie ·
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    My Daughter is eloping and wants to have a celebration afterwards. We are hosting it at a Brewery after they get back from their honeymoon. I think she wants a BBQ in the backyard idea, but we don't have a yard that is ideal for the guest list of 150. She wants it simple but I'm still hoping it can be something that brings the best of both ---- a wedding reception and the idea of eloping together and celebrates their marriage. She doesn't want a cake, no white fabric draped around, not sure about candles. I don't know what will make her happy and what I can do to give her the memories of a beautiful special celebration. I feel my hands are tied and I can't figure out how to make it special. Any words of wisdom, or ideas?

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