Top 10 Ways to Save on Your Wedding
It may be the “customary” thing to do, but charging up $20,000 in credit card debt to pay for your wedding may not be the smartest way to start off your marriage. On average, that’s what brides and grooms in the U.S. spend for wedding day expenses, far more than many can afford. Instead of overextending yourselves right out of the gate, save money by getting creative instead.
1. Bridal party and guest list. Keep it small, limited to those who are closest to you. You’ll save money on bridal party gifts, favors, centerpieces, and food and alcohol.
2. Invitations. Instead of sending expensive invitations via snail mail, email them instead, requesting online RSVP’s. It’s eco-friendlier too.
3. Dresses. Check out sample sales for your wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses. Or go the second-hand “vintage” route.
4. Venue. Consider having your wedding in yours, or a friend or family member’s, backyard. You may also be able to hold a free ceremony in your church or a city park.
5. Flowers. Instead of investing in expensive cut flowers, opt for potted plants and flowers instead. Not only are they cheaper, but you can take them home and give them to guests as forever reminders of your special day. As with foregoing paper invites, potted plants are eco-friendlier than cut flowers that only get thrown away.
6. Centerpieces and favors. Make your own. Or if you’re opting for potted plants over cut flowers, they can play the dual role as favors too.
7. Hair and make-up. We all know someone exceptionally good at doing their own hair and make-up. Generally they love helping others look great too, so ask them for help on the big day. Of course, you and the women in your bridal party have been doing hair and make-up for years. You can always help one another and simply do it yourselves.
8. Food. Instead of hiring an expensive catering company, consider a culinary school instead. You can go a step further in savings by hiring college students or mature high school students to serve. As for the menu, include seasonal items (i.e., cheaper) and limit choices. Consider a buffet or even hors d’oeuvres service so you can control the quantity of food. You can also save by planning the reception as a brunch or mid-day meal, as people will likely eat less.
9. Alcohol. Bring your own if the venue allows. Shop at Costco for big-bulk buying and stick to beer and wine basics.
10. Entertainment. Ask a musician friend (or two) to play.
Then with plenty of room left on your credit cards, put part of it toward a nice honeymoon. It doesn’t need to break the bank either and you’ll still have a nice cushion for all the lovely things you’ll want to buy, see and do as a new, financially-free married couple.
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