We asked three planners to work with a big-day budget of $5,000. Here’s how they toed the bottom line.
Party Option #1: Garden Brunch
Photo Credit: Sarah Kathleen
Planner: Lisa Gorjestani, Los Angeles (detailseventplanning.com)
Guests: 100 or fewer
"A brunch on a Sunday can keep your venue fee low. Another great thing is that you don’t have to offer a lot of alcohol," Lisa says.
Menu: Stick to white wine or prosecco (a sparkling wine that comes at a fraction of the price as champagne), sparkling water with slices of lemon or lime and juices. Consider a coffee or tea bar. Serve a selection of frittatas, salads and a variety of breads and pastries.
Cake: Go for mini fruit tarts or cupcakes stacked on tiers.
Décor: White linen table covers and butter-colored napkins with white grosgrain ties have a fresh, coordinated look. Have printed menu cards in a brighter yellow at each setting.
Flowers: Each round table should have a small galvanized-metal pot of pretty white daisies. With a garden backdrop, you don’t need pricey arrangements.
Favors: Delicious chocolates, in paper boxes tied with yellow grosgrain ribbon or yellow and white gingham.
Next: Afternoon Picnic ►
