The good news: when planning a wedding on a budget you do not have to economize on everything!
More good news: By picking three expenditures to “splurge” on, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.
Prioritize
Make a list of all the aspects of your wedding that you’ve always imagined. Be detailed.
Economize
Once you’ve chosen your “three,” it’s time to economize on the rest. Here’s how:
- Flowers: go artificial! Find the blooms you like and keep them for centerpieces and floral arrangements in your home after the wedding. If you opt for real blooms, make sure they are in season. This could save you thousands in your florist bill.
- Decor: Buying secondhand or renting all of your ceremony and reception decor could save you big money.
- Venues: Contact the Park and Rec Department in your community about indoor and outdoor locations at a fraction of the price of a private location.
- DJ/Band: Rent some speakers and ask one of your groomsmen to man the iPod. By having a pre-made playlist, it leaves little room for error. Another option is to hire a college student that DJs.
- Catering: If a grandiose meal isn’t your cup of tea, do a cake and coffee reception. Make sure your guests know ahead of time about the lack of meal, or you may have some disgruntled relatives.
- Invitations: A laser ink printer can make some beautiful stationary nowadays. Find a template online and customize it. This works for thank you notes, place cards, and save the dates as well.
- Dress: The possibilities on this one are virtually endless. There really are no rules anymore about what a bride wears to her wedding. However, if you’re still looking for that traditional gown, national chains have their dresses marked as low as $99.
- Cake: Opt for a square cake, it will feed more people for the same price. Also, by using a butter cream frosting instead of fondant, your wedding cake costs can be cut by 33%.
- Photography: By asking for a premier photographer’s assistant, you will get the quality and service you desire up to 50% off.
- Honeymoon: If your budget doesn’t allow for jet-setting across the world, consider a location closer to home. Or if the islands are calling your name, opt for a one-year anniversary celebration.
General Rules of a Budget Wedding
- Weddings that take place on Fridays are cheaper than Saturday weddings.
- Getting married in the off season(Nov-Feb), will save you money.
- Don’t spend money on trivial things. If you won’t remember it after your big day, it’s not worth the expense.