How to host a home wedding reception

The first decision to be made when deciding on a home wedding reception is whether it will be held  indoors or outdoors. For most people, outdoors will allow for much more space but indoors will make weather a non-issue. If you are choosing outdoors, then a tent is a necessity and one with sides that can protect in case of wind or rain is a wise choice. All the planning will come to naught if the weather can ruin the wedding reception.

Along with a tent, a dance floor should be rented. It is unrealistic to expect to be able to walk and dance on grass. It will also lead to a dirty hem on the bridal gown if a long dress is the choice.  Very accurate measurement need be taken of the floor space to allow for eating and dancing. Once you know the number of guests, you can figure the approximte number of tables that will be needed and how best to accomoadate them. It may be that you will need two tents, one for dining and one for dancing.

If you are planning a small, intimate home wedding reception which will be held in your home there are other things to consider. Will you have a sit down meal or will you serve cocktails and appetizers?  Will you need tables or are just chairs adequate?  This will work for 30-40 guests depending on the size of your home. Do you have a kitchen that can accommodate a caterer or will you be catering the wedding yourself?  A catered buffet or a potluck can be less expensive.

A home wedding reception requires a solid plan.

1. Know the number of guests you can accomodate.

2. Indoor or outdoor

3. Sit down meal, buffet or appetizers

4. Catered or self catered

5. Rent tables and chairs

6. Rent linens

7, China or paper plates

8. Order the cake or plan to bake

9. Music and dancing, yes or no?

10. Casual, semi formal or formal

Decor is an important part of every wedding reception and a home wedding reception is no exception. If there will be tables then centerpieces will add a finished look. These can be floral or they can be candles, balloons or anything that fits the color scheme and wedding theme. Homemade centerpieces are another great way to keep expenses down. If it is to be a cocktail party with chairs only then flowers can be placed on stands to add a festive touch.

Wedding planning

How to plan a cheap wedding reception