Tried and True Wedding Planner Tips to Minimize Expenses

We love helping our couples create beautiful cocktail receptions! But, how do you manage your cocktail reception expenses without affecting the quality of the food and beverages? Check out these tried and true wedding planner tips to help you keep costs under control.

Instead of a Buffet or Food Station, Request to “Butler Pass” the Hors d’ Oeuvres

Butler passing allows for more control. But be careful, some hotels charge a passing fee.  I know, I know, it’s a goofy service fee.  But it happens.

Use Smaller Plates at the Food Stations

This may sound obvious, but it actually works. Smaller plates encourage wedding guests to eat less.

Ask To Be Charged “Per Piece” Instead Of “Per Person”

If your cocktail hour is actually a cocktail reception that is less than one hour, then ask to be charged for the hors d’ oeuvres by the piece.  Your guests will probably not eat as much in less than an hour and you are paying for a lot of food that your guests may never see.

Don’t “Over Order” Hors D’ Oeuvres

The typical serving for an hour-long cocktail reception that is being held prior to a lunch or dinner is 3 to 4 hors d’ oeuvre pieces per person.  If the reception is taking the place of a lunch or dinner, the “per person” serving is typically 6 to 8 pieces.

Butler Pass the Wine and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Near The Front Entrance

We recommend that you butler pass the wine and non-alcoholic beverages near the front of the event space. Then, place the bars in the back of the room. Wedding guests that start drinking wine out of convenience will most likely continue to do so instead of drinking the more expensive mixed drinks.

Do You Need Assistance With Planning Your Wedding?

Are you ready to embark upon an epic wedding planning experience? Please contact your professional wedding planning team at Howerton+Wooten Events. We specialize in helping couples create their authentic and inspiring wedding days.

Love and Soul Always, Kawania

P.S. If you are interested in booking me as a speaker or lifestyle expert for your event, podcast, TV show or news article, click here to learn more about my knowledge and expertise.