As I plan my wedding, I'm finding there are always ways to cut corners without having to look cheap. Here's 10 tips on saving money on your big day.
1.) Trim your guest list
Remember that each person adds a significant amount to the overall cost of the wedding. It's an extra plated dinner, an extra program, invitation and so on. Don't invite anyone you haven't talked to in 5 years. You can also decide to have an "adult only reception". Limit co-workers from the office that aren't close friends. Remember if you feel "preassured" to invite someone, they probably don't need to be on your list.
2.) Save postage on your wedding invitations
Postage is determined by weight so keep it simple. Don't add extra blotted paper, and another envlope. You could even ask guests to reply via email or on a wedding website if you have one.
3.) Shop samples sales and the internet for cheap wedding dresses.
If you're a size 6,8 or 10 like me this could save you TONS. When I came across a local bridal shop running their annual dress sale, I thought I'd check it out. I sort of picked through the racks but ended up finding a $1100 dress for only $98!! It will require a little in alterations but they are cheaper than a full price dress. There are often internet sites for used or never worn items that are going for a much lesser rate than what they were originally purchased for. It could save you hundreds.
4.) Change the day of the week
This can be the difference of thousands between even a Friday and Saturday. Choosing a Thursday or Sunday will often boast better deals from all your vendors since there is less demand.
5.) Save money on church decorations
Depending on the time of year, you might luck out and have the ability to piggy back on their already decorated for the holidays space. If not simplicity can save you so opt for some candels to create ambiance for less.
6.) Learn to ask!
You can't get what you don't ask for. Vendors won't offer additional freebies. There is always a chance they will do the slide show for free, or through in popcorn for later in the reception for nothing. Also consider asking your friends and family for help in areas they might specialize or know someone.
7.) DIY
This may cost you time, but it certainly saves you money and it often has a much more personal touch. Get your wedding party together, throw on some music so it doesn't feel like a production line, and power through invitations, favors and centerpieces.
8.) Look for cheap wedding food and drink
Weigh out similar options and have your caterer price them out so you can compare. What's a plated dinner versus a buffet, and what's chicken cost versus beef. You could consider drink tickets for your guests, reserving the open bar for only the cocktail hour, or buy beer and have the hard alcohol cash. There are a variety of options for every budget so compare and contrast.
9.) Get online!
Try Craigslist and Ebay. Brides often resell used reception decor that's still in great shape and for cheap. Make sure to look for trusted sellers and calculate shipping but it could make a difference in your bottom line.
10.) Consider cheap wedding invitations
You could print your own invites on your home computer using software found online. Most stationary stores carry heavier paper that can be used in your printer. Making a lot of invitations? Go to a bulk paper warehouse store where they can cut the costs of paper and often let you use their supplies to cut professionally.
