So I am trying to plan a wedding reception for my Daughter in June 2012. We have the church booked (in Plano) but trying to find a place for a reception in the evening (in the area even towards downtown Dallas). The guest list at this time is around 120. My daughter is worried about the cost and does not want to spend a lot of money does anyone have any ideas of places that we could use bringing in a caterer and our own alcohol or a budget friendly place I am even open to places that are not normally used for wedding receptions. She would like to do a cocktail hour, dinner and dancing. We do have a DJ that we can use. Thank you for any suggestions and your help.
I went to a Sweet 16 party at Ballroom Headquarters in Frisco and they brought in catering. There are three dance rooms and a kitchen area in the back. The mom said it was very inexpensive. Depending on where the wedding is in Plano it might not be to far. Preston/Gaylord.
I'm not sure if this would be in your budget or not. According to my husband, my idea of "budget friendly" is different than his. :)
I attended a reception at the Richardson Women's Club and it was great. Their facilities are nestled back in a wooded area with a greenbelt nearby and the setting is really beautiful. Their main banquet room has very large windows so that you can see out and there is also seating outside for those who want some fresh air.
I know they hired their own caterer and provided their own alcohol for the event. I believe you have to use one of their "approved" caterers though. The wedding I went to had at least 150 guests and it didn't feel crowded, there was plenty of room for everyone and it had a huge dance floor. We really had a great time here. Considering that the ceremony is in Plano, Rirchardson wouldn't be that far away.
The website is www.richardsonwomensclub.com
Good luck finding a place and congratulations to your daughter!
It has been years, but I had my wedding reception at Dovie's restaurant in Addison for a similar sized group. It was very affordable.
There is a little reception place right next door to Neiman Marcus in downtown Dallas that is a really neat place. It is very urban....with 2 walls glass, and the other walls are brick. There is a loft area for folks to mingle and/or eat. I know they have weddings and receptions of all sorts here.
I believe you would have to bring in your own catered food (however, there is a kitchen facility inside) and I'm sure could bring your own DJ. I have heard that it rents for $1,500 but I certainly can't confirm that since I've never rented it myself.
If you are interested in looking at this place I can run down at lunch to get the name and phone number (and website) off their door. Just PM me and I'll be happy to get you the info since I work right next to it.
D.
If you don't mind the DFW area, try Level Two. Their rates are phenomenal. The photos on their website don't do the place justice - you have to see it in person. It's so quaint and charming and the owner has years of experience. I looked at dozens of places and no one could beat Level Two's prices. They also cater the food which was delicious. They have a huge parking lot which is something to consider if you're having a lot of guests. I can't say enough about it - my guests are still raving about the reception my husband and I had there! However, I don't think you can bring in your own food and alcohol. Below is there contact info:
703 McKinney Ave LB# 116
Dallas, TX 75202
www.leveltwoevents.com
Phone - ###-###-####
Email - ____@____.com
Not sure if this is close to your venue or not. But we rented the Wylie party barn, many years ago. Has inside and outside. Brought our own food and alcohal. But it has been many years ago.
http://www.partybarnrentme.com/frame.htm
I suggest Hotel Intercontinental in Addison. They have many rooms to choose from and we did cocktail hour, sit down dinner, and dancing.
I don't know where to send you, but try looking on theknot.com. They usually have a list of reception halls. I did want to tell you to really price things out. It may not always be cheaper to bring in your own caterer and alcohol. If you have a caterer in mind, call the caterer and see where they have done receptions. Also, look into bridal shows. I'm pretty sure Plano has one coming up soon.
There is a really unique venue at White Rock Lake called the Filter House. They are reasonable and although they have a list of approved caterers there are great choices on the list and probably could work with your budget. Love Two Sister Catering, very yummy!
http://www.thefilterbuilding.com/
Good Luck with your search and congratulations to your daughter!
Have you checked into smaller venues not listed. Do some online Google searches. Consider venues the city you live in provide, since you'll get a discount for being a resident. The smaller venues don't advertise like the big ones, so you will probably get a better rate. They do have rules & requirements regarding alcohol, so ask in advance as to what their policy is. Many require you buy the alcohol from them or they charge a fee. Also, just because you sent out 120 invitations (like we did) doesn't mean everyone will show up. We had an intimate reception of 60 people who did come of the 120 we invited. Best wishes!
