So far, every venue that people have described as "affordable" has been over $5K without food! I'm ready to pull my hair out. As of right now, I'm looking at maybe a $6K budget for everything. (We're still in research phase.)
The venue I originally wanted is $1,500 (it's an art gallery/performance space) which I thought was ridiculous considering it doesn't include anything, but now I am rethinking it. One other that I am trying to arrange a tour of is the Quequechan Club in Fall River which allows one free event per year for members (cost of membership is much much less than cost of renting the place for the day) so that's a possibility but it's still sight unseen.
I really want something with a less traditional feel but at this point I am looking at all options. Probably looking at late next summer or next fall. And I'd like to pick my own caterer and bring our own alcohol and bartender.
TIA!