DIY Kombucha Mocktail Bar for Weddings: A Refreshing, Gut‑Friendly Station

If you’re looking for a drink station that feels fresh, inclusive and fun, a kombucha mocktail bar might be the perfect choice. When I planned our summer micro‑wedding, we wanted a non‑alcoholic option that still felt celebratory.

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DIY Herbal & Iced Tea Bar for Weddings: My Guide to Creating an Interactive Drink Station

Creating a tea station was one of the best decisions I made when planning our affordable wedding. Not only did it fit our rustic aesthetic, it gave guests a fun way to customize their drinks without relying on alcohol.

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

The Wedding Potluck: How to Pull It Off with Grace, Gratitude, and Good Food

Planning a wedding on a budget often requires creative solutions, especially when it comes to what meal you serve your guests. And if you’re on a budget, those costs can add up quickly! 

A potluck-style reception is one of the most heartfelt and practical ideas out there. Done right, it can feel like a true celebration of community, with guests contributing family recipes, regional favorites, or tried-and-true comfort foods. 

But while potlucks are cost-effective and cozy, they also come with their own set of logistics, etiquette questions, and organizational needs.

Here is everything you need to know to host a smooth, safe, and joy-filled potluck reception. We will cover everything from asking for contributions politely to keeping Aunt Lucy’s lasagna at the right temperature.

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

Hidden Fees to Watch Out for When Booking a Wedding Venue

Just when you think you’ve found the perfect venue… surprise! The final invoice has a few mysterious extra expenses you didn’t see coming.

So, before you sign on any dotted lines, you’ll need to know what’s what. Here are some sneaky wedding venue fees to look out for so you and your new spouse don’t suffer from a case of sticker shock on your special day! 

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

Mexican Wedding Food: Traditional & Modern Dishes & Ideas

Whether you or your spouse are of Mexican descent or Mexico has a special place in your heart, incorporating traditional Mexican food into your wedding menu is a great and cost-effective way to make your wedding feast more memorable. 

Here are some ideas you can use to include both modern and traditional Mexican dishes that will put a smile on your guests’ faces! 

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

Wedding Cocktail Hour Food Ideas On a Budget

If you’re hosting a wedding on a limited budget, there are lots of options for saving money. One way you can save is by hosting a wedding cocktail hour instead of a traditional reception.

Not only is this a great way to enjoy your guests, but you can save big on food and beverages. Let’s find out how you can plan a cocktail hour on a budget for your wedding day. 

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

Wedding Reception Finger Food Ideas & Tips!

Young couples are moving away from formal sit-down dinners at their wedding reception and opting for exciting arrays of finger foods! These small, two-bite delights are easy to DIY and give every guest a taste of something they crave. 

Here’s why wedding finger foods are the way to go and which ones work best for your reception meal. 

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

Budget-Friendly Wedding Venues in Maryland

If you live in the great state of Maryland are looking to host your wedding there, you’re in luck. There’s an abundance of wonderful, affordable venues to choose from!

Let’s look at 12 budget-friendly wedding venues in Maryland and some tips for booking the best spot for your special day. 

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

14 Places to Host a Dream Micro Wedding in Houston

Big Texas weddings are wonderful, but they can be costly in Houston and feel a lot less personal. Many couples are turning to micro-weddings to ensure they have a unique experience. =

Find out everything you need to know about mico-weddings in Houston, plus which venues will give you the personalized, intimate experience you crave. 

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Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy Venues & Menus Colleen McCarthy

Affordable Wedding Venues in Louisville, KY

If you’re getting married in the Louisville, Kentucky area, you’re in luck! There are many cost-effective venues that offer a balance of beauty and affordability, so you can host the wedding celebration of your dreams without breaking the bank. 

Let’s look at 12 affordable wedding venues in Louisville, Kentucky that will fit your vision and your wallet! 

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