Is Your Wedding on a Tight Budget? How to Cut Costs Without Cutting Charm
Posted: Friday, January 21, 2011
by Jamie Jefferson
http://www.momscape.com
Your wedding is a day you'll remember forever, but you don't have to blow all your savings to create a memorable, romantic occasion.
Here are a few ways to cut costs for your wedding (without being cheap).
1. Book your venue carefully (and early). When booking your venue, you'll spend less if you can avoid the peak wedding season. In fact, you'll likely spend less for everything related to your wedding if you set the date for a time other than May, June, or July. During these “off peak” times of year, it will also be easier to find cheaper (or even free) locations for your reception, such as public buildings and parks. You might also consider holding your wedding on a non-traditional day, such as a Sunday or a Friday.
3. Repurpose a dress. Does your mother or aunt, sister or special friend have a wedding dress that you can have altered to fit you? If not, comb the bridal shops for sales and buy your dress off the rack. Keep your eyes on consignment stores as well as online auction sites. It may take a little patience but you can find a gorgeous, just-right dress without spending thousands (or even hundreds) of dollars.
4. Find a shutterbug friend (or two). Ask a friend or two to be in charge of taking photos. If you don't know a friend who takes professional quality photos, see if there is someone who is studying photography at your area college who would be willing to do it inexpensively in exchange for the experience (and a good testimonial if the photos turn out well.) If you're going to go this route, you might want to have a few guests who are snapping photos, too, so you aren't entrusting the creation of these priceless mementos to someone you don't know. And don't forget the disposable cameras on each table at your reception, so each of your guests can take a turn documenting the event for you.
5. Make your own wedding playlist. You and your spouse-to-be can have fun creating a special wedding playlist and downloading the songs you'll need. Then simply rent a good speaker system, if the venue for your reception isn't so equipped.
6. Don't buy everyone cocktails all night. You'll save a lot by opting for a casual buffet over a formal, sit down dinner. You'll also save a ton by either limiting your bar to a few selections or making your alcoholic drinks available by cash bar only.
Saving money on your wedding is really about asking for help, doing as much as you can yourself, and shopping around for the big-ticket items (and using a coupon code whenever possible.)
Check Today's Jewelry Discounts for discounts and coupons on wedding bands and engagement rings. Then save money on all the things you'll need for your new married life together at Susie's Coupons.
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