Many people wrongly assume that if you hold your wedding reception at a hotel or a restaurant, then it is the done thing that you have a sit down meal before the celebrations really begin.

Whilst this does appeal to many people, it is by no means a requirement of the evening and some people choose against this. Depending on the amount of people you invite to the reception, a three course meal can prove to be very expensive and if your budget does not really match up to this then you have a few options which will be equally acceptable.

The first option is to arrange a buffet for the guests, many venues will allow you to bring this into their function rooms providing that you hire the room out for a certain period of time. If not, then it is usual that they will offer a discount to you and this works out substantially cheaper than the more formal sit down meal.

The second option is to look into something like a barbecue or a hog-roast which are very popular, particularly in the summer months and are enjoyed by all.

Finally, you may choose not not put any food on at the event and really focus on showing off your wedding ring and dancing the night away. Although this is totally acceptable, it may be an idea to have a bit of a break between the wedding itself and the reception to allow people to have something to eat before the night really begins.