Having the wedding reception of your dreams on a budget is definitely within your reach. First nail down your budget and who's paying for what. Then envision everything you want in your wedding, from entertainment to wedding reception napkins. Now explore the myriad inexpensive wedding reception ideas and options at your fingertips.

Borrow a Space
Instead of spending an arm and a leg on a fancy ballroom or dance hall, explore what you, your family and friends already have for inexpensive wedding reception ideas and inspiration. Reach out to those who have backyards or homes that are large enough to hold your wedding guests. If you’re already going for a homegrown vibe, this type of setting will fit perfectly.

Explore Dinner & Drink Alternatives
Please note that guests should be informed ahead of time regarding the menu. You don't need to share every detail, but if you announce your "Dessert Reception" or "Tapas Reception," for example, they'll know not to show up hungry and everyone will enjoy the party more.

• Small Portions: You aren’t required to serve a full-course meal. Instead, offer appetizers and small plates. Go all the way and transform your reception into a Spanish theme and offer tapas.
• Only Offer Dessert: Offer an array of desserts, dancing and champagne instead of the full shabang.
• Simplify Dessert: More often than not, couples will offer dessert before cutting into the wedding cake. Consider offering only wedding cake.
• Potluck: Require certain close family members and friends to bring their favorite dish made with love. This will bring an eclectic feel to your wedding reception and will also give your guests an opportunity to get involved.
• Full But Not "Open" Bar: Cash bars are a bit controversial; officially, wedding etiquette dictates that guests should never have to open their wallets at a wedding. However, they are becoming more common at wedding receptions, so it may be a viable option for you. If you can, offer one glass of champagne for the various toasts.
• Cut Back: Skip first course and only offer an entrée and dessert.

Use What You Already Have

• Supplies: Before running out to purchase or rent supplies such as tables, chairs and decorations, look at what you already have in your garage and storage. Subtract what you can provide by what you still need and you’ll be surprised at how much you'll save.
• Centerpieces: Flowers are easy to come by if you know anyone with a garden. Depending on how large of a reception you're holding, you may be able to rely on friends to put together beautiful centerpieces plucked from their own backyard, or consider non-floral centerpieces, as they can be less expensive to create.
  
• Entertainment: Ask musician friends to lend their talent for a good cause: your wedding! You would only need to them to play for up to two hours. Also ask around for any deejays that would be will to work for advertising. Instead of paying them, offer to place their business cards on every dining table.

Find a Wholesale Store
Instead of spending more than you need to on renting or purchasing equipment, supplies or decorations, go ahead and find a wholesale store that has everything you need. You'll get plenty of new, inexpensive wedding reception ideas in the process. You may not save time, however, but you will save money.

Make Handmade Wedding Favors
Handcraft your wedding favors in your own home on the cheap! Some ideas include:

• Burn CDs with your and your groom's favorite songs or the reception play list.
• Email your guests online photo albums of the wedding ceremony and reception.
• Take Polaroid photos with your guests throughout the reception and allow them to take them home as a memento.

Check Out Non-Floral Centerpiece Suggestions
Check Out DIY Wedding Planning 101
Check Out Personal & Stylish Reception Napkins