I feel like I'm searching for a needle in a haystack. My fiancee and I are trying to keep our budget in check. He thinks a budget ballooning to 20K for the whole shebang is too much - so now I'm trying to see if we can do this for 10-15K.
I'm finding that spaces that require you to use their caterers, or charge per head on food + alcohol plus all the taxes along with it, are what's really making everything so wildly expensive.
I'd love to find some more bare-boned spaces for us to have a lovely reception at. We already have ceremony spot locked in (just a church). All I'm truly looking for is a space that allows string lights, enough tables to seat 150-200 people, and food that isn't going to cost me an arm and a leg. I'd be willing to do food trucks, even. Bring our own booze, if possible.
Anyone have any ideas for weather-appropriate locations I haven't thought of yet? I've got inquiry into The Rose Barn in North Park right now as a very cheap option from what I can see - but they don't book until 365 days out. I've contacted quite a few places so far - banquet halls, museums, concert venues, etc.
Thanks all!