Opinions needed..

nolebride08 · February 2011

Hi ladies!

I know someone has posted on this before, but I'm interested to hear all of the new opinions. I've found a venue that includes catering, decor, and reception/ceremony space, leaving very little for me to worry about. However, I have also found a couple of places that only rent the space and tables and chairs, leaving me to handle all the details myself along with my family, including the set-up and tear-down. At the end of my budgeting, I've figured out that the all inclusive venue is about $1200 more than the non-inclusive option- is it worth it??

Also, the all inclusive venue agreed to work on a custom menu for me, being that it's a small place, so my estimation is only that- it could change based on the price for the menu I choose. Same for floral arrangements. So basically, the $1200 dollar difference is a minimum.. it could go up.

I'm so torn! I want to save the money (I'm dreaming of the honeymoon already..) but, at the same time, I know having it all taken care of for me will probably take a lot of stress off of my shoulders, especially on the day of. What should I do??

Thanks for reading! I really appreciate any suggestions!

ritakelly · February 2011

I think it really depends on what your personality is like.
I chose an all includsive venue; because at the end of the day I didn't want to worry about it. I am also not planning to add much to the decoration of the venue (they have standard decor that is neutral enough to match my colors). I like their food (I had been to 2 or 3 other wedding with the same caterer who is exclusive at my venue). I want to show up day of and just attend my wedding (not set it up and run it).

I think if your more of a type A person who wants things done in a very specific way (decorations and such); not having the all inclusive will give you the oportunity to control more things (while keeping your budget). Also, if your a DIY girl; you can infuse more of yourself into the space. That is my one regret; that I won't be able to make more decorative items (I have found so many fun ideas while planning). But I am making my own invitations and party flowers. I also plan to DIY a few things for the guest book table and gift table.

I am still so happy to show up and it be done; but thats me. I haven't been dreaming of my wedding sinse I was 5 so I didn't have anything that I HAD to have at my wedding. I just want a FUN evening with my family and friends to celebrate my comitment to my future husband.

kjones84 · February 2011

I chose a venue that was the space for the ceremony, the reception and they also did the food. That was a huge relief because that took out trying to find a caterer. I think the other parts of wedding planning are fun...cake tasting, meeting with the florist etc. So I really think you can have the best of both worlds. If you don't want to be stressed the day off, find a place that comes with an event coordinator (I was lucky because mine comes with 3!). That way you can enjoy the planning but also be able to enjoy the evening!

dzjenna · March 2011

I also found an all-inclusive location that we liked, but once I asked a few more questions, I found out that I was not allowed to bring in any decor of my own. Not even a single tea-light or cocktail napkin. I personally didn't like being told that I couldn't diy anything to help save $. So, I picked a venue that did their own catering and alcohol. Now I'm having so much fun being creative and bringing in some personal touches. So, I think you just have to decide what works more for your style and budget. Good luck!!

Opinions needed..

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