As Wedding Coordinators, we have seen it all. From the overall plan to the tiniest details, your wedding coordinator knows it all. You may be planning your wedding on your own, or have a trusted coordinator by your side. Either way, it’s good to start thinking like a pro, and you can use these fun tips to impress your friends and family. Learning just these five easy tips can help you be as knowledgeable as a professional.
This article was written in collaboration with Tessa Lyn Events.
Disclaimer: All images in this article are submitted by Tessa Lyn Events.
Candles
Candles add a warm glow to any reception. My motto is, the more candles, the better, but all these candles can be hard on the wallet. A great way to save some money is to buy your own candles instead of renting them from the florist. Oftentimes you can find candles online for less $1 each, where a florist can charge $3 per candle. If you’re using dozens of candles on your tabletop, this can be a huge budget saver. Buy your own, have a family member bring them to your venue, and ask your coordinator or the florist to set them out. Also check places like Ruffled.com to buy once used candles from other brides at a discounted rate.
Cocktail Bites
The go-to rule for passed appetizers is one bite per fifteen minutes per person. So, if you have a sixty minute cocktail hour, plan on four appetizers per guest. While some guests might eat a little more or a little less, this always evens out to be the perfect amount.
RSVP Help
Write the initials of the guest you sent the invitation to on the back of their RSVP card so if it is returned blank, which happens often, you will know who the mystery guest is.
The Ultimate Space Saver
When arranging your seating chart, try to organize eleven guests at round tables. Some people will not bring dates, so odd numbers are not uncommon. This is a huge space saver, and can often allow you to reduce a table in your ballroom – saving space and money on an extra centerpiece.
Budgeting for Guests
When budgeting for guests, never plan on your entire invite list attending. About 72% of your invited guests will accept the invitation. Even if you are inviting your closest friends and family that all wish to attend, keep in mind that work obligations, travel plans, pregnancies, or other events inevitably keep some guests away. Plan for 72% of your invited guest list to have a better idea of your budget throughout the planning process.
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