Your Dream Wedding … On a Realistic Budget
Everyone is on a budget these days, including brides-to-be.
A survey by David’s Bridal revealed that nearly 75% of brides expect to make some economy-related adjustments to their wedding budget. So how do you ensure the wedding of your dreams, without breaking your budget?
Have your wedding and reception at the same spot
Just make sure all your logistical needs are met by the one venue. Some hotels and other venues do charge more for this dual-functionality, so be aware of any extra costs.
Book off-peak times
A wedding in January, February, September, November or December can save you money and may make it easier to book your favorite venue, photographer, etc. Similarly, booking any day other than Saturday can help. Just be sure to consider the impact of this scheduling on any out-of-town guests.
Keep tight reins your reception costs
The bulk of your expenses will likely be tied to your reception—food, drinks, site rental, etc.— so controlling your reception-related costs is critical.
Skip the boutonnieres
Few men will protest not having to risk physical impalement in order to wear a flower.
Cut the size of your bridal party
Never underestimate the per-person costs of wardrobe, bouquets/boutonnieres, gifts, etc.
Cut the size of your guest list
Yes, you might get more presents with a larger guest list, but your costs will soar.
Omit wedding favors
Many favors are accidently or intentionally left behind by guests; few are truly remembered.
Consider a daytime wedding
A strategically-timed morning or afternoon wedding can significantly cut food costs. Guests attending a 10 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. wedding will likely not expect to be fed a meal.
Buy seasonal flowers
Buying seasonal flowers and using more greenery can reduce your floral expenses.
Consider alternatives to flowers for your reception décor
Adorn tables with beautiful lanterns or votives; these can double as gifts for your attendants.
Make your own wedding invitations
Lots of home-printing invitations are now available—just make sure your home printer is up to the task.
Manage save-the-dates and RSVPs online
You’ll cut your postage costs dramatically. Utilize your existing email and/or free invitation Web sites like evite.com.
Calculate for budget miscalculations
Set a budget and stick to it. But keep in mind the amount most couples actually end up spending on a wedding is about double of what they originally budgeted. Building this miscalculation into your budget can keep you out of trouble.
Buy bridesmaids dresses at a department store, rather than a bridal store
It’s no secret that attaching the word “bridal” on most anything automatically drives up costs.
Have your bridesmaids buy their own dresses
It is fairly common to have bridesmaids buy their own dresses. Just be sure you are sensitive to any financial constraints when choosing the dresses.
Shop online
You might find a better deal online—just watch those shipping fees.
Consider a church wedding
By the time you factor in rental fees for chairs, tents, etc., a church wedding might be even cheaper than one in your own backyard.
Watch for dress sales or buy secondhand
A wedding dress is often one of the single most expensive items. Keep a lookout for $99 dress sales or resale gems. Don’t forget eBay, Craigslist and other online sources.
Don’t serve alcohol or limit the types of alcohol served
Just have a champagne toast or limit the types of alcohol served. Or omit alcohol altogether—if you have a daytime wedding, this omission will be less conspicuous.
Save on photography
Wedding photos can eat up 10-15% of your budget. Hire a professional photographer to take only your most formal photos—enlist a talented friend to take candid shots.
Consider a DJ or make your own mix
Bands can be expensive. Hire a DJ or ask a tech-savvy friend to run sound. You can even create your own playlist.
Ask for alternative gifts
Have a friend who bakes, takes great photos, etc.? Ask if they’d consider a gift of their services in lieu of a traditional gift.
Look into marriage education classes counseling
In some states, completing marriage education classes can save you money on your marriage license. Regardless of any fringe benefits, relationship education is a worthwhile investment in your marriage.
Consider eloping or a small private ceremony
Not a traditionalist? Skipping the big wedding can save you big bucks. Just remember the lion’s share of wedding costs is tied to the reception, not the wedding ceremony, so having a huge reception or party could negate some of the cost savings of not having a wedding.
