Cheap Classy Venue

by Rebecca
(Louisville, KY)

I have been increasingly frustrated with venues requiring the use of their approved caterer. We wanted an open bar and appetizers for our post-sunset reception, and didn't see the point in paying $30 a head for snacks.
My solution: we are renting a penthouse apartment that has access to a shared rooftop. We will hold the ceremony on the rooftop right before sunset, then adjourn to a beautifully decorated loft-style apartment. A full kitchen means friends can come and prepare food earlier in the day and still enjoy themselves at the wedding. A private location means we can serve our own wine and beer and not be charged an arm and kidney for it. The view of the city from this luxury high-rise apartment is spectacular, and we're renting a few extra bistro tables to provide extra seating. At the end of the night, we kick everyone out, and spend our wedding night in a beautiful bedroom that is closed during the reception (and still clean!). Family will come help us clean the next day, and we're off for the honeymoon. This is saving us so much money! And we're still having an open bar and serving gourmet food!