Wedding in RI Questions

nickalicia

Does anyone know how to have an affordable wedding in RI because it doesn't seem possible, we are getting married next May...Thanks for any info

KBinRI

Well, I think everyone's definition of affordable will differ, but it is possible to have a lovely wedding and not break the bank. We were on a pretty tight budget and paying for everything ourselves. We had to consider priorities and what we could and could not live without. It wasn't easy all the time, but I'm so glad we didn't spend more money than we did or go into debt for one day, because as wonderful as that day was, I have such a different perspective about things now that it's over.

Limiting the guest list is one of the easiest ways to keep costs down. We also knew what we wanted to pay, maximum, for things and then didn't look at anything not in that range so that we wouldn't be tempted. We set a budget and stuck to it.

We also didn't have a bridal party and, while saving money was not the reason we didn't have one, I definitely noticed it helped save money on the rehearsal dinner, in gifts, paying for hair/makeup for them, etc. That might not be an option for you, though.

It was important for us to have a venue that wasn't a hotel, country club or other all-in-one venue. We knew we wanted to bring in our own caterer and have a more unique, rustic venue. Sometimes, this can add cost, as you have to rent everything. But I did my homework - so much homework - to find the best prices on everything. 

Also, it might sound counterintuitive to spend money to save money, but hiring a day-of coordinator was one of my best decisions. She helped us save money by suggesting a vendor I hadn't considered, and she was essential so that we and our families could just enjoy the day and not worry about any little detail. Best money spent, by far.

As for priorities, for us it was photography, venue and food. Things we did not care as much about included flowers, cake and attire. I wasn't willing to spend thousands on a dress and hundreds on a veil I would wear for eight hours. Instead of renting a tux, we spent a little more and bought my husband a gorgeous Ralph Lauren suit that he has worn several times for work since the wedding. 

I also did quite a bit of DIY. I made our invitations and save-the-dates; we picked blueberries and made little jars of jam that also served as escort cards; we did the centerpieces ourselves, etc.

You have to be willing to let some things go, but you just have to keep the big picture in mind. Do you have any specific questions about vendors? Do you have a date and venue yet? I swear it can be done!  (Sorry I have written you a novel.)

nickalicia

Thank you, were trying to stay around 10k were paying for it by ourselfs but its pretty hard to find a venue.

KBinRI

How many guests? 

nickalicia

trying to get it lower than 150

KBinRI

Hmm, well, if you could get it to 130 and didn't mind a Saturday daytime wedding, Spain in Narragansett might be a good option for you. Depending on the menu, looks like you could do the whole reception for about $4,000, leaving you $6K for the rest. 

If you want to go the venue + caterer route, maybe consider a cocktail-style reception with heavy apps to cut back on the bill. Less expensive venues include (all clicky --->) Kinney Bungalow or South County Museum in Narragansett, the Chorus of Westerly performance hall and the carousel at Goddard Park (no alcohol allowed, though.)

What kind of style of reception are you hoping for? What kind of food? Any certain vibe (rustic, classic, formal, informal, etc.)? 

If the all-in-one venues appeal to you, there are several that are fairly reasonable. 

nickalicia

im looking for more of an all in one caterer/venue. have you heard anything about the old chester house?