I know that finding a venue and reception site is top priority.. but after a few weeks of solid searching I've become so dicouraged that I'm putting it off more than I should. The engagement butterflies are starting to subside and the reality of planning a wedding is setting in. One obstacle is that I'm planning a MA wedding from South Carolina. Another is budget, I really wanted to keep everything below $15,000. FI and I are paying for everything ourselves, and while we do have a small savings, I'd like to be able to go into marriage with a bit of cushion. The food expense is unreal. With 140 guests I can't really afford more than $50 a head. And what's with the cake cutting fee? I'll cut the damn cake myself and personally hand it out!
It's funny, because I already have a theme, and some bridesmaids already have dresses. I want a vintage/rustic feel. Still classy and romantic though.
Flowers:
Bridesmaid:
They will all have knee length flowery/lacey dresses in muted colors with cow girl boots.
We're shooting for a late summer wedding next year. I've been leaning towards September 1st, as it's a Sunday which makes it less expensive for some areas, but it's also Labor Day weekend, so guests will still have the next day off. Smith Barn in Peabody was where I had my heart set on.. but they're booked. Everything else I come across just doesn't fit.
-sigh-
So instead of more searching I have resorted to pouring myself a glass of wine and venting about it on the message boards.