Draw Up a Budget and Stick to It
Before spending any money, plan all your
expenses carefully and then stick to the plan as close as possible.
Hire a Dress and Tuxedo
You are not going to use these clothes
repeatedly and a wedding dress in your closet is just taking up space. Hiring
these items will save you money.
Jewelry and Accessories Do Not Have to Cost A Small Fortune
Rather opt for affordable engagement rings than starting your
wedded life in debt. There is no reason to buy the most expensive jewelry and
accessories on the market for your wedding day.
Search for shoes and jewelry that you will
wear again after the wedding. You are paying money for new items, but not for
wearing them once.
There is no shame in borrowing a necklace or
bracelet from your mother or grandmother. Think about something old, something
new, something borrowed, something blue.
The Bridal Party
Deciding who is standing next to you and the groom on your special day can be a tough
decision. Some brides are so overwhelmed by this choice that they end up with a
whole line-up of bridesmaids. Just keep in mind that bridesmaids and groomsmen
are part of your budget and the more you have, the more expensive your wedding
becomes.
Do it Yourself
Every detail of your wedding that you do not
have to pay someone for is saving you money. If you are creative, design your
own invitations. If your sister can decorate the flowers, let her help. Maybe
the groom is skilled in woodworking and can make a thank you gift for
your guests. Before hiring someone, try doing it yourself, it is usually much
cheaper.
Pinterest and YouTube can go a long way in
assisting you with DIY ideas and methods.
Do Your Research
Compare the prices of various photographers,
or venues, or caterers. Do not just accept the first quotation that comes your
way. If you search thoroughly and talk to people before making a final decision
you might get a better deal somewhere along the line.
When you find a photographer or caterer that
is cheaper than many others, you can always ask for a portfolio or samples to
verify that you are satisfied with the quality.
Think About an Alternative Wedding Venue
One of the biggest costs of having a wedding
is the venue hire. Having a garden or beach wedding is a good way to trim down
the cost of the wedding. If you have some helping hands to set-up and take down
the decorations of course.
Repetition is Not Key
Unless you send out paperless wedding invitations,
it is costly to send out a save-the-date, then a wedding invitation, then an
RSVP card, then the next one. Stick to one wedding invitation, send it out
timeously and preferably electronically with a reminder to RSVP.
Having a high tea and a bachelorette and a
kitchen tea and a what-else party might seem like a good idea to get many
gifts, but it is costing you and your guests.
