I'm beginning to look for a location for my wedding in September 2008 in NJ. I really would like an outdoor ceremony and indoor reception and we really would like to try to keep the cost within our budget, however, I'm having a hard time finding a location that I can just rent, instead of a location where it is per/person, and everything included. Can you give me any ideas?
I don't specifically know NJ locales since I am in Arizona, but in our state, there are parks, museums, areas around lakes or college campuses, botanical gardens and all will have rental fees to use the facilities. It might not be LESS expensive, though, because you will then need to rent tables, chairs, perhaps a tent, depending on weather predictions, table cloths and so forth. We planned both of our daughter's receptions in our back yard, but the cost per person was about the same as a hotel/banquet hall. The main difference is you can save by catering your own food and drink and literally do it YOUR way.
Another good outdoor option is if you know someone who lives in a town home community, or someplace that has a 'community center'....they will usually rent the facilities to the person who lives there. OR...a family member who has a suitable back yard, with a nice garden area that is big enough.... And would provide use of their property as their wedding gift to you.
