As you plan your wedding, you start to realize that roughly 50 percent of your expenses is spent on the reception. If you're like most brides who are trying to stretch their peso in these tight times, ingenuity is your aid in getting the best deals. Below are some tips on minimizing your wedding reception expenses.

1. Have a morning reception.

A morning reception is cheaper, since you will be serving lighter fare compared to an evening reception. Guests will also have less inclination to drink early in the day, so you don't have to serve as much alcoholic drinks as you would at an evening event.

2. Choose an off-peak date.

Weekends and holidays are prime days for people to get married. If you think you can gather your family and friends on a weekday, opt for a midweek wedding. Rental costs--including that of your reception--are cheaper, since fewer couples book on those days.

3. Streamline your wedding package.

Wedding reception packages are widely available and are sometimes cheaper, but check thoroughly if you need all the amenities included in the package. The seemingly inexpensive add-ons could cause your expenses to balloon, so remember to prioritize the basics.

4. Stick to the accredited caterers.

Most reception venues have partner caterers that service their events, and you can choose from them if you want to save. Hiring a caterer from outside could mean that you have to pay corkage fees, and these could take a big toll on your budget. Also, bringing in alcoholic drinks usually entails corkage computed by bottle or by case.

5. Don't limit your options to hotels.

A hotel or function hall is usually your top-of-mind option when canvassing for a reception venue, but check if you have non-hotel choices. A relative may have a sprawling garden, or there might be a park near your area--exhaust possible alternatives to cut back on costs.

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You might also want to check:

• 4 Ways to Save on Your Reception Menu
• Qs to Ask Before Booking Your Venue
  
• Alternative Reception Venues
• Reception Icebreakers