affordable reception ideas

Ok so we wont be having a wedding but will still have the reception to celebrate now ive been trying to figure out how to this affordably but not tacky and xane up with the idea too rent out a dance hall only serve cake punch and finger foods or at my moms house where my family will cook for everyone. Iplan to include music, cut the cake and still do our first dance. Please chose or comment any ideas to make it better