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Money-saving tips for planningyour Bonnet House wedding

Money-saving tips for planning your Bonnet House wedding:

Limit your guest count.  The owners of the historic estate were known for intimate gatherings with only very close friends and family.  Consider a small affair of 50 or less guests to save on the rental fee.  You’ll save in other areas too, such as catering and rentals.

Hire a wedding planner.  A lot of couple shy away from spending money on planners, but keep in mind that many planners receive discounts from the companies they contract with, and that savings can make a big impact on the bottom line.  Preferred planners like Event Bliss and Blonde Events can also help make important decisions on décor and layout and find ways to eliminate unnecessary spending.

Choose your accessories wisely.  Many couples chose to purchase gifts for their guests.  From presents at each place setting, to farewell gifts during departure, these gestures can get expensive and some guests forget and leave them behind altogether.  Concentrate on hosting a fun event and scratch the extras.

Choosing Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for your wedding means that you get built-in décor.  Our staff spends countless hours making sure the property looks beautiful for your wedding day and choosing over-the-top décor can overpower the garden setting. Choose a florist, such as Victoria Park Flowers, who can steer you in the direction of a less-is-more design approach and save big!

Consider a cocktail style wedding.  The estate is well suited for a cocktail party and having your guests mingle at cocktail tables instead of sitting at assigned tables adds a level of energy to an otherwise sedate event.  Caution: Most guests still expect to eat dinner at weddings, so be sure to mention in your invitation that it’s a cocktail party and have enough food (passed or stationed) to go around!

Purchase your own liquor.  Most caterers will provide a bar and bartender to serve the liquor that you have purchased.  The savings can be significant and you can take the leftovers home!

Shorten your cocktail hour, or eliminate it altogether! Consider taking your family photos before your ceremony, so that you can enjoy your party and avoid keeping your guests waiting.  Many photographers, like Clay Wieland, can make that first look between the bride and groom as special (and more intimate) than the ceremony first look.

Remember that Bonnet House is a not-for-profit organization, so tipping is not allowed for staff and volunteers.  Save money on gratuity and at the same time, help to preserve one of Ft. Lauderdale’s treasures!

 

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