We’ve saved one of the most important factors in this decision for last. Your budget is always important because it can determine how enjoyable and stress free the planning experience AND your wedding day will be!

COST: TO SPEND OR NOT TO SPEND…

According many of the couples we come into contact with, many of the brides originally think they will save money with an outdoor wedding.  As planning continues, most couples realize that an outdoor wedding usually costs more than an indoor one.  The reason it usually costs more is because the flexibility in cost is dependent on the couple’s preference. If you select an indoor venue that is top notch, it could be very pricey. If you decide to have an outdoor wedding with all the bells and whistles, that could also add up very quickly. Please keep in mind that if your venue does not provide the necessary items like: tents, chairs, linen, dance floor, sound equipment, generators, lighting, food, etc., it would be an additional cost.  NOTE:  If you are not okay with plastic utensils, that could be a cue that outdoors may cost you more than indoors.

Indoor (PRO):

• Fully staffed and No additional costs (liability insurance, catering, renting each fork, cup, napkin, disposing of trash, etc.)

Indoor (CON):

• Minimum requirements (depending on the venue, their min. may be very high)

TIP: Consider all of your venue options before making your final decision. Ask questions and ALWAYS read the fine print.  No vendor we have worked with has ever tried to have any “hidden fees”.  If you tell your vendor what you have in mind and would like to have happen for your wedding, they can then tell you potential costs that might be involved (ie: microphone rental, video screen rental, staffing an extra bar, etc.)

Outdoor (PRO):

• Flexibility (can be as inexpensive as the couple are comfortable with) and controllable bar costs (by providing your own beverages from Costco/Sam’s Club and returning what isn’t consumed).

Outdoor (CON):

• More work (tents are a lot of work) and coordination means more vendors and details required. 

TIP: Try to find vendors that are able to provide more than one service. That way, you might be able to get a package deal instead of outsourcing to each individual vendor and paying each one a separate check.

It IS possible to have it all!

Our suggestion to “having it all” is to have your ceremony (and maybe cocktails) outdoors so you and your guests get to enjoy the outdoors when it matters most (when you can see everything and take pictures with a beautiful backdrop) with your reception indoors.  This option will save you on cost, stress, no worries about the weather, you will be in A/C, and you will very likely also be able to have your event last longer (as most outdoor events must end by 9-10pm).

Regardless of which setting you choose, either one can be turned into your dream wedding atmosphere with proper preparation. This is your special day and everything should be the way you’ve dreamed it would be! Hopefully this will help guide you in the appropriate direction that is right for you. Be sure to follow us for more blogs and tips! Happy Planning!

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day