101 COST-CUTTING TIPS! continued

11.

Before committing to a venue, ask about hidden costs – some sites charge to cut your cake or uncork your champagne.

12.

Pick a venue that is fully furnished, like a hotel or a restaurant. You’ll save a fortune by not having to rent it all.

13.

Say no to big-city prices and have your wedding on a rustic farm or in a nearby small town.

14.

A fabulous chicken entrée or an exotic vegetarian risotto will cost you much less that a beef fillet or seafood main.

15.

Select a venue where you can bring your in caterers – you’ll have more say over the menu and rate per head.

16.

Use expensive ingredients in smaller portions – serve them as hors d’oeuvres rather than your main course.

17.

Breakfast, brunches and afternoon teas are less expensive than serving dinner – and people tend to drink less.

18.

Save on waitstaff charges by having a buffet instead of a plated menu.

19.

A cocktail affair is generally less expensive than a sit-down dinner.

20.

Serving your meal family-style in big dishes on the table allows you to serve reasonably priced, festive dishes, loke paste, polenta, and risotto.