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5 ways to save money on food and drink at your wedding reception

5 ways to save money on food and drink at your wedding reception


John Maddaford
John Maddaford Updated:
8th of March 2023

Serving great food and drink is a fantastic way of bringing people together at your wedding reception, but it can be costly! Here are five ways you can save money on your food and drink at your wedding reception.

1) 'Family style' dining

What this means is food is brought to tables in serving dishes and shared amongst guests at that table. This gives the reception more of a 'family' feel as it encourages sharing and conversation.

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2) Buy your own booze

This may take more organization (and your venue will need to allow it) but you will save money in the long run. You can buy booze in bulk and with so many price comparison sites lurking about, it won't be too hard to find the cheapest options! You can still have an open bar with this option as well!

Wedding wine Wedding catering Guides for Brides

3) Have a BBQ/Potluck

If the weather is looking nice for your wedding, a BBQ could be a fantastic option. You can serve a variety of different food and still have that 'family' feel to your food. Another option which could work alongside the BBQ is the idea of a Potluck - each guest (or nominated guests) bring a dish to share with the entire wedding party.

Wedding BBQ Wedding catering Guides for Brides

4) Limit what you serve

You can still have an open bar but limit what you serve. Consider only serving beer and wine, rather than spirits or cocktails.

Wedding booze Wedding Catering Guides for Brides

5) Have a cocktail party

A perfect medium between a formal meal and a fun relaxed party. You can serve tasty hors d'oeuvres and have a few signature cocktails on offer. You won't need as many waiting staff and it's something a bit different. You can always adapt the menu with non-alcoholic cocktails if you have children attending.

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What will you serve your guests?
John Maddaford

About the author


John Maddaford

John has been a pivotal member of the Guides for Brides team for 15 years. He has many clients that are caterers or suppliers of catering equipment. He is the best person to contact for supplier recommendations in your area.

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