Ranch wedding on tight budget

juliedaffern

We are working with a very tight budget ($5,000) and thinking we'll get the biggest bang for our buck if we rent a ranch house for the weekend and keep everything very low-key. 

Has anyone else done something similar here in Texas? Do you have suggestions on a ranch? We're fairly flexible on where it is, but we'd prefer if it was centralized, like in the Austin, Hill Country or Houston areas.

hildeedee

i looked for a couple different houses to rent for my wedding, but ended up finding a place in Austin that was more cost effective for what we wanted and because our wedding was moved to January, so it would be too cold to do something outside.

we did do something like this for my sisters wedding in March that was at a friend's ranch (so venue was free), and kept it very casual and it worked out great, plus LOTS of DIY.

ttp://www.longhornriverranch.com/

this one was normal rental fee, plus an additional $1000 for an event: http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p241961

this one was more reasonable: http://rockinyranch.com/

good luck!

Hawaiianpunch512

I tried to go this route but found that many rental homes have very strict rules on large parties.  If you are looking at something cost effective, I would recommend the Zilker Park Club House or Mayfield Park.  If you are looking for something really outdoorsy and eclectic, I would recommend Casa Rio De Colores.  casariodecolores.com.  The pictures do not do the place justice.  They have an amazing outdoor space and I think it's only 750 to rent out.  The people who own Lucy in Disguise also own this place, so it has that same kitchy, Austin-like style. 

richelleleigh11

I originally researched this route as well, but I think it would work best for a wedding smaller than what I am planning. I did come across this one place :
http://www.tripadvisor.com/VacationRentalReview-g28964-d1651258-San_Gabriel_s_Horn_Secluded_Private_River_Retreat-Texas.html

There is also a hotel in Austin where you can rent the whole facility (which includes 6 rooms I think) for a pretty reasonable price. It has a very modern look though so if you wanted the rustic ranch setting it probably wouldn't work for you.

http://kimbermodern.com/accommodations_courtyard.php

MnMShaw

You also might want to check out Reunion Ranch in Georgetown. 

juliedaffern

Great ideas! Thanks, girls!