How to have a special, simple, yet frugal backyard wedding reception!

reception table

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By lilmrsknowitall
eHow Community Member

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(10 Ratings)

Every wedding reception should be special but doesn't always have to cost a fortune! There are many tips and attention to details that can make any reception memorable! Here is an example of what you can do, taken from a recent reception I threw for a special couple of friends!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

bolts of tulle
candles and holders
ribbon
guest list
tables and chairs
table cloths
silverware, china, crystal glasses
candy covered almonds
favor boxes
clear mailing labels
food, drinks, and of course cake!
post card stock
strawberries

Step 1

It's all about the planning and being open to creative ideas. The first step was planning a menu, which consisted of home-cooked dishes, and catered trays. We had appetizers: an assortment of cheeses and crackers, hummus, shrimp cocktail and veggies. For dinner: grilled pork and chicken, penne pasta, and salad. The dishes were prepared in advance and a friend came to the house early to cook so the food was ready for the guests.
Step 2

DECORATIONS: One bolt of tulle can go a long way! Swags of tulle tied with ribbons draped everywhere possible, down the canopy and around the chairs. A blown up picture of the couple - done on the computer - displayed in a guest signature matte frame. Tablecloths bought from a local wholesale club were white linen with silver design. From the craft store, we found white rose silk flower rings to go around white taper candles on crystal candle holders. The candles and holders we found at the dollar store!(shhh!) Even though we only expected an intimate amount of guests, we thought it would be cute to still have table place cards. I took post card stock (that I already had) and using the computer, typed each guests name with a nice piece of clip art all saying Table One.
The Bride doesn't have to be the only one with something borrowed....so we used our china, crystal champagne glasses with cut strawberries on top, and silver. This gives the look of elegance without the expense!
Step 3

The favors I made were also beautiful yet simple. From the dollar store again, I found favor boxes which I filled with candy-covered almonds. I took clear mailing labels and printed out the couples names with the date in silver script writing and attached then to the boxes. Then I tied them with a ribbon. I also made white chocolate heart lollipops which I wrapped in clear cellophane bags with silver design on them and stuck them through the top of the boxes.
Step 4

Light the candles on the tables, set out the food, put on some romantic music, toast the couple and enjoy the special day!

Comments

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