Save on Restaurant Costs: Essential Tips for Your NYC Elopement or Micro Wedding

Planning a wedding dinner or celebration in New York City can be a magical experience — but the costs can add up quickly if you’re not mindful of the details. As NYC wedding photographers who specialize in capturing the beauty of elopements and intimate weddings, we’ve picked up some practical tips to help you save money while keeping the experience unforgettable.

Here’s one of our favorite hacks: keep your guest list to nine or fewer when booking a restaurant for your celebration. Once your group reaches ten or more guests, most NYC restaurants will automatically apply additional charges that can significantly inflate your bill.

Why Group Size Matters for Your Budget

When your party hits ten or more guests, restaurants typically enforce a 20% service charge, and many add an administrative fee that can be as high as 25%. These fees are on top of standard tax and gratuity, meaning your costs can soar before you even start ordering.

These policies are common because larger groups require extra staff and planning, like organizing a fixed menu and ensuring seamless service. While these fees are understandable from the restaurant’s perspective, they can be a big hit to your budget.
 

The Benefits of Keeping It Small

If you’re planning a micro wedding or elopement, keeping your guest count small isn’t just intimate — it’s practical. Restaurants often waive service fees for groups of nine or fewer, and you’ll have the freedom to order à la carte instead of being tied to a pre-set menu. This flexibility means your guests can choose what they truly enjoy, and you won’t have to pay for items that aren’t eaten.

For smaller celebrations, costs can vary widely depending on the restaurant, with menus typically ranging from $80 to $120 per person. But be sure to ask about drinks and alcohol — beverages can sometimes double your per-person cost.

Elopement-Friendly Dining Tips
 

    •    Ask About Policies in Advance: When scouting restaurants for your celebration, always inquire about service charges, administrative fees, and fixed menu requirements.

    •    Keep It Intimate: The smaller the group, the more flexibility you’ll have to customize your experience. Plus, smaller gatherings are perfect for stunning candid photography!

    •    Be Creative: Consider hosting a daytime brunch or opting for a chic cocktail hour instead of a traditional dinner. These options are often more budget-friendly and allow for a unique vibe.

    •    Think Outside the Box: Want to sidestep restaurant fees altogether? Arrange a catered picnic in a picturesque NYC park, like Central Park or the Brooklyn Bridge Park — ideal for beautiful photo opportunities!

Why Details Like These Matter

As photographers, we’ve seen firsthand how much effort goes into making a wedding day truly special, no matter the size. Saving on unnecessary expenses like restaurant fees allows you to focus on what really matters — creating an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones. Plus, the more you save on logistics, the more room you have in your budget for meaningful touches like stunning floral arrangements, chic attire, or, of course, professional photography to capture every moment.

So, what’s the takeaway? To save on restaurant expenses during your NYC elopement or micro wedding, keep your group intimate and your plans flexible. With a little strategy, you can create a celebration that’s beautiful, meaningful, and budget-friendly.