Your wedding reception is by far your biggest wedding expense and will largely decide your final budget. Luckily, there are ways to save some big bucks on your LA wedding reception with just a few simple tips. Here are the best ways to save:

Tip 5: Trim your guest list.
Most venues charge per guest for everything (the reception rental, food, drinks, etc). So every additional person you invite costs you exponentially more. Trimming the guest list can save you anywhere from $50 – $200+ per person. So just ask yourself “Do I like this person enough to buy them a $100 dinner?” and that should help you trim the list down quickly!

Tip 4: Have your Ceremony and Reception at the same place.
This is a must. First it will cut out transportation costs of getting you, your family and guests from the ceremony to the reception. Second, the day will flow much better without a two hour motor transition. Finally, you’ll save a lot with the venue if you book a whole wedding package instead of booking a la carte.

Tip 3: Choose a beautiful venue that is its own decoration.
Decorations and rentals are an expensive and unnecessary part of your wedding budget. If you choose a reception with its own ambiance, like a golf country club, a yacht, a vineyard or any of our stunning venues recommended on our LA wedding venues directory, most can stand on their own without additional ornamentation. You will save both money and preparation time by cutting out this step.

Tip 2: Research for online discounts.
Sometimes, a venue will have a discount that can only be found on their Twitter feed, their Facebook page or on their website. First Google the venue name and the word “discounts” to see what they offer online. Then follow up with a call to their event manager and tell them you found their venue on TheGoodWedding.com and what the best deals are now GoodWedding brides. If you have any questions or problems, please email us and we’d be happy to contact the venue for you.

Tip 1: Prioritize.
What’s more important to you: the location, the guest list or the date? Each of these will be a compromise for your budget. The nicer the location, the bigger the guest list and the more competitive the date the more you’ll spend. But the more flexible you can be, the more you’ll save. Pick a less expensive but more inclusive location, cut down your guest list and pick an off-season, non weekend date.

For a full step-by-step guide on wedding savings, please read our blog series:
How to Plan (and save on) your Wedding in 5 steps

Plan a good wedding. Start a good life.
This post was written by TheGoodWedding.com | Los Angeles Wedding Planning Directory