DIY reception

[rachel1374]

We are 100 % thinking we are going with a DIY reception. For everything, drinks, decorations, food, and maybe even cake. We are eloping and this will be three weeks after the wedding. I'm trying to think of all the things that would be required but feel like I'm missing some things. Can someone list what all needs to be covered. I don't want some detail I didn't even think of sneaking up on me at the last minute.

[breezy]

having just had our wedding and doing almost everything ourselves my 1st comment is do you have the organization and time to do this and not become stressed? I was really on top of everything having it done well in advance and still the last week was hectic.

as for your question
table rentals
chair rentals
chair covers
table linens
centerpieces
favors
food
serving dishes
heating dishes
serving utensils
hot and cold drink holders/cups
punch bowls
tubs to hold soda cans, beer and water
ice
napkins
plates
silverware
card box or likewise
guest book
pens for guest book
cake
cake plates
cake toppers
cake cutting/serving set

we hired servers so as not to tie up family or ourselves

that's it off the TOP of my head. I know there is more

[rachel1374]

Honestly, I really do not have the time. I'm telling my FI this and he says family and friends want to help. He says to let him take care of everything. He is way to big of a procrastinator and I, the control freak. How do I get him to understand I'm still going to be running around like I'm crazy and not be able to enjoy things? This is the only option where we don't have to cut our guest list (almost all family).

[ljeagle]

I am a control freak! I had a DIY wedding and it worked out great. My family did the food I helped for 2 days ahead with all the decoration. I just told my self the day of the wedding if its not done it wont be done and there is nothing I can do about it. It can be done you just have to prepare your self to know you can't do it all that day.

[whiddle]

I briefly considered a DIY reception but decided not to since it is so much work. I wanted all of my family and friends to be able to relax and enjoy the wedding, not to worry about cooking or cleaning.

I think that Breezy made a good list. Although, I didn't notice if she had some form of entertainment like a DJ, band, or ipod. Oh, and a facility would be good!

[rachel1374]

Thanks everyone. I think it's all covered. If money wasn't an issue, we wouldn't be considering DIY. I just need to make the decision and never look back. I know going in, I will be stressed and running all the time. I guess I'm trying to get OK with that.

[emmasbridal]

I too had a DIY wedding and reception. Between me, my family and friends we did everything ourselves. Just remember to keep it simple. It's better to have a simple but beautiful reception rather than not get everything done. Make a list of what you'd like to accomplish and prioritize by putting the most important first.
I recommend fresh flowers or greenery to make an elegant impact on a lower budget. One fresh flower arranged artfully in a vase is better than a whole lot of artificial flowers. You can even use flowers from your garden or from the wild. Greenery can be found almost anywhere and looks fabulous! Hope this gives you some ideas!
Hang in there! It'll all work out!