Down here, a buffet is a standard thing is a wedding. I don't think I've ever been to a sit-down dinner.
Professional invitations shouldn't be too expensive if you get something simple. Sometimes you have to stop and think "20 years from now, will I like all this foil and pearlized embossing as a memento of my wedding?" Plain engraved invitations on ecru card stock are beautiful and classy in a simple way.
I've never heard of having bar tickets at a wedding. Down here its either open bar or nothing at all. I can just imagine what people would say if they saw tickets. I guess its the whole Southern hospitality thing - better for you to put out a bit more and make sure your guests feel totally welcome.
Don't skimp on a photographer, but make sure you find one who won't monopolize your day! I hate it when the wedding party is absent for half of the wedding for pictures. There are only so many poses people can assume. I'm going to do as many of my pictures before the wedding so I can enjoy the reception.
Instead of spending money on wedding programs, why not just do an old-fashioned recieving line? It makes your guests feel welcome at the reception, and it gives you the opportunity to personally thank them for coming.
And on that note...THANK YOU NOTES are *vital* It is so tacky to give a bride something and not recieve a thank you note. Make sure to get some little engraved notecards with your name "Mrs. John Smith" on them and keep a detailed list of what people give you so you can promptly thank them.
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