    I am in the midst of a wedding planning frenzy. While making lists, doing research and finding hot smokin' deals is like second-nature to me, I've found aspects of the planning process to be quite daunting, and have fallen victim to some major sticker shock when it comes to the grub. The mister and I have chosen to hold our wedding close to our Brooklyn home (although both of our families reside in other states) and are attempting to circumvent some of the typical all-inclusive catering costs by getting creative and tapping into the ever-present Brooklyn vibe. 

    I'm incredibly inspired by <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303714704576383682135167132.html">this bride</a>, who had three food trucks pull up to her venue (incidentally also our venue) and serve half-sized dinner portions to 100 guests. Similarly, I'm musing over the idea of drop-off service by a local BBQ joint serving up dinner family style with overflowing baskets of cornbread and biscuits and pickles galore. I am from the South, after all.
    Both options are incredibly cost-effective, but require a different spin on how exactly the food will be served and the place setting will look.

    Option 1: A Food Truck Fiesta
    The idea centers a loose flow of folks engaged in great conversation

    as they munch on lobster rolls or pupusas or Brooklyn dogs from an array of trucks. Disposable dinnerware is a must and place cards aren't really a necessity. The focus should be less on grandiose centerpieces and more on simple décor; Perhaps an abundance of freshly cut flowers in simple milk glass vases peppering long tables with craft paper runners, for those guests who'd like to sit down to eat. 
    Option 2: A Southern Family-Style Soireé

    Because rentals are so costly, I considered collecting a mish-mash of vintage dinner plates and serving pieces over the next year. (A fun project right?) Mason jars would make lovely glasses for whisky-laden cocktails, and these <a href="http://www.glamour.com/weddings/blogs/save-the-date/2010/07/real-wedding-a-colorful-nature.html">little conversation starters</a> (scroll down) are too cute for words. As an alternative to flowers, a bold centerpiece would be in order. I'd fallen in love with this centerpiece last fall and am still swooning over it (and hoping my decorational fairy godmother puts it on sale) as I love taxidermy and modern rustic spinoffs.
