Reception vs Luau?

MAKohler1986

So we originally planned a reception here in Chicago, but when we opted for the destination wedding I figured we'd go to a luau after the wedding instead because it wouldn't cost as much and it would be easy. The luau would be $95 per person (maybe less if we choose a different one), but we wouldn't need to pay for DJ, decorations, ect. The Hilton Hawaiian Village has a beautiful room for a reception that is not booked yet, complete with a patio overlooking the ocean. It's perfect. Would it be a lot more money to have a reception there instead of going to the luau? I'm guessing we'll have around 50 guests (maybe a few more). Any thoughts? Thanks for helping me sort through this!

MrsNicole&Brian808

I would definitely contact HHV and ask them to send you a price list.  You can do more accurate number crunching from there.We didn't have to pay a rental fee for our reception venue (I think this is normally the case for hotel reception rooms).  We just had to pay for food and beverage (there was a minimum dollar amount).  All standard dinnerware, flatware, white linens, banquet staff, etc. were included.  We did a Sunday lunch buffet with 3 entree choices, which came out to $37 per person at the time.  We brought in our own DJ (you could even use an ipod instead of having an actual DJ), cake, centerpieces and favors.The more info you have the better.  You can play around with different options and choose the scenario that will work best for your budget and needs!  GL!

sandyhorne

I'm doing my reception at the HHV.  I wanted more of a reception feel than a Luau.  Are you looking at the Rainbow Patio or where?  They sent me banquet prices and such so I could compare.  I've got approximately 35 people so we're doing it at Bali by the Sea so we don't have the minimum banquet room charge.  The whole staff from banquets, to restaurant to group bookings have really gone over and beyond with me so far. Good luck!

tifani27

I'm doing a Luau, we have already booked the one at the Marriot Wailea, and we got our Luau for about $74 a person through Hawaii Discount.com, check them out and call the guy, he will give you the best deal for sure. Just tell him what you would like to spend per person and he will let you know if he can give you that price or at least meet you in the middle. I think the Luau is going to be great and for people that have never been to Hawaii it is an AMAZING experience, plus not having to pay for DJ, Cake, Center pieces, all that jazz, is really saving us a lot of money and affording us to take everyone on a snorkeling trip the next day!!!!