Sunday, August 4, 2013

10 Ways to Save on your Wedding

Every bride has a vision for her wedding day. But we quickly discover that the wedding we want and the wedding we can afford are two very different events. 

With this in mind, we have compiled a list of ways to save on your big day.

1.  Consider renting a dress or buying used.  Lets face it, our daughters will more than likely another want to wear our out od date wedding dresses when it comes time for them to say I Do so why make that the reason to spend the extra doe?  There are tons of websites to find fabulous gowns for less.  

2. Instagram pictures.  Photographers are expensive and while pictures are important, everyone is already taking them anyway.  Why not have everyone contribute to your wedding album with their point of view.  You may be surprised how talented some of your friends and family are with a camera in hand.

3.  Borrow linens.  Many venues will have linens they use when hosting events of their own.  It never hurts to ask if they are available and if they can be included in the price.  They may be plain white, but you can always add a runner for half the cost.  

4.  Buy local first.  Look around rural areas and ask friends and neighbors for vendors that may provide services you need.  Maybe they know a good seamstress that only does jobs on the side, or a culinary student that can do the catering for a fraction of the cost as a major restaurant.  

5.  Don't splurge on expensive new jewelry to wear on your wedding day.  Make these items your something borrowed.  Your mother , grandmother, aunt, or even sister may have a stunning necklace or earrings to give you that glam flare on your big day and they will be happy to lend it for such an occasion.

6.  Believe it or not, you don't need $400 shoes on your wedding day.  You probably won't be wearing them the whole time anyway.  So strive for comfort.  You can find comfortable white, cream and off white satin shoes at Payless any time of year, and for the bride who wants a splash of color, they die them to match just about anything.  

7.  Hire a planner.  I know what you are thinking, hiring a planner is spending even more money, right? Wrong.  A planners job is to help you make the right decisions for your budget and to negotiate with your vendors to get you the best possible price.  They have more than likely worked with vendors in the area before and know who is worth the extra dollar and who may be ripping you off.  They are worth it.

8.  Opt for a wine and beer bar rather than a premium bar.  The cost is less per person and it still gives your guests choices without making it a cash bar or breaking your budget.

9.  Check Etsy for some great and inexpensive gift ideas for your bridal party.  There are some very thoughtful, handmade items just for your lovely ladies that are a great alternative to spending $40 per girl.  (Especially if you have a large bridal party.)

10.  Don't get caught up in small details.  Consider the elements that will enrich the experience the most and don't worry about adding smaller less significant items to table settings, center pieces and the decor.  While these items may be cute and fit your theme, is it really important to have three different votive holders on your tables?  The little things are not what will be remembered when all is said and done, and the cost of them adds up quickly. Keep it simple and elegant. 

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