Buffet on a budget
   It can be a challenge matching a budget with your desire for good food. But there are a number of practical approaches that can help keep the cost of a reception under control. These include keeping your party to a moderate size and scheduling your reception at lunchtime. Your menu choices may be as important as the location in helping you control your costs.
   Many area restaurants have spaces that are suitable for wedding ceremonies. Some of these are outdoors; some of them have impressive water views. Keep in mind that some of these spaces may not be available for weddings during prime tourist season. A restaurant that depends on its summertime dining trade can't afford to close its dining room for a wedding. But if your plans permit scheduling your wedding in the fall, winter or spring, you may be able to get a great setting for an affordable rate.
   When you inquire about rates, ask about whether any minimum charges may apply for use of the space, and be sure to calculate those along with the cost of the food.
   Here are some places you may want to consider. Most will cater a buffet-type reception, have dance floors, and despite a casual atmosphere are nicely appointed so they don't require extensive decorating.

• The Balcony on Dock Street: A third-floor event space in the newly restored Roudabush Building downtown, with in-house catering, views of the Cape Fear River, polished wood floors and exposed brick walls.
• Candles, Etc.: In Chandler's Wharf, this shop has a riverside deck that can hold a wedding and reception for about 75 people. Catering comes from Elijah's restaurant next door.
• Bluewater Grill: Great views overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, with space for both wedding and reception, but may be unavailable for private parties during peak tourist times.
• The Bridgetender: This well-known restaurant on Airlie Road has a catering service that offers receptions in a charming space in Historic Downtown Wilmington. It's upstairs from the Front Street Brewery restaurant on North Front Street.
• The Oceanic: An unbeatable ocean view is this Wrightsville Beach landmark's first claim to fame. Most practical as a site for an off-season wedding.
• Sticky Fingers: This Wilmington barbecue restaurant does off-site catering, but can accommodate a small reception in its in-house private dining room.
• Wilson's: This large dining and entertainment complex has an event room that can be set up for both wedding and reception.

   Check out our ceremony and reception site directory for more details on these and other locations. Look at their ads, follow links to their web sites, and ask them for sample menus. There's no substitute for taking a look yourself: take a few hours on a weekend to drop in on places that have caught your eye.
Reception site directory

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