[ad_1]
This is the largest day of your life, and you want it to be memorable – first rate even – but the average wedding (not including the cost of the engagement ring and honeymoon) is almost $ 30,000! Not in your budget? Do not worry. Believe it or not, with a little planning and some ingenuity, you can bring your wedding costs way down. Follow these nine tips for a classy, yet affordable wedding.
- Marry off-season. Reception costs and other rentals will be cheaper if you get hitched during the off-season. For an even greater discount, consider getting married in the middle of the week.
- Use your imagination. With a little ingenuity, you'll be surprised what you'll find to integrate into your wedding décor. Check your local dollar and thrift stores often to find the best deals.
- Get a little help from your friends. When planning a budget wedding, your best connections are your friends. You'll be surprised how much talent you'll find if you just ask. Your well-connected friends might be able to help you with caterers, musicians, photographers, film artists and seamstresses amongst others.
- Take it outdoors. Many cities have parks with gazebos or botanical gardens that you can use. Just call your city hall to see what areas might be available for your ceremony. Bonus: You'll also be able to use the beautiful outdoor surroundings as natural décor – saving you more money on decorations.
- Rent and borrow, but do not buy. If you can forego purchasing items, you'll save a lot of money. Make a list of what you need and ask your friends if they can help. Also, call several rental places to price the other items that you'll need. You'd be surprised how much they vary in the prices that they charge.
- Buy a gown alternative. Check out your local department store. You might find a nice formal dress that will do the trick for a lot less than what you'd pay in a bridal salon. Check consignment and thrift shops too. You may be able to find that perfect vintage gown.
- Choose ethnic cuisine. One way to save money is to go for food with an ethnic flair instead of the traditional chicken, beef or fish. Mexican, Chinese, Italian, and Hawaiian foods are all tasty and will satisfy your guests, plus they are less expensive than dishes normally served. Build your theme around the menu. Bonus: If you can use your own caterer, you'll save even more money.
- Hire a student. Second-year college students in photography and film programs may be just the ticket to saving big money! Choosing a student will be less expensive, and their work will most likely be exceptional. Make sure you ask to see their portfolio beforehand, though, and discuss despite what you are looking for in your pictures and video.
- Buy affordable wedding invitations . Discount invitations can make a big difference in your wedding budget. Online companies can be a great resource for very affordable yet classy invitations, and invitations under a dollar are not unheard of!
[ad_2]
Source by Lisa Bakewell
