Weddings, like so many other things today can cost a bundle... But with planning and doing some work yourself, it can be affordable and beautiful!
Here are some wedding money savings tips from Thrifty411:
- Start with a budget!
- Limit the number of attendants.
- Have a more intimate wedding with close friends and family.
- Buy clear Christmas lights at after-Christmas sales and use them for decorations.
- Make what you can. Craft stores have great selections and ideas for decorations, gifts, the wedding veil, and other necessities.
- Use a couple long stemmed flowers with ribbons instead of bouquets for bridesmaids. Sometimes simple is more elegant!
- Comparison shop for invitations. There are many online providers or you can purchase invitation paper and do them yourself!
- If you plan to serve food at the reception, make it a buffet instead of a sit down dinner.
- Decorate the reception area with pictures of the bride and groom.
- Use some balloons at the reception instead of all flowers.
- Plan your wedding during "off-season" or on a day other than Saturday. Most weddings happen between May and October. The off season times may provide you discounts from vendors and locations.
- Opt for a non-alcoholic reception.
One last note - comparison shop for a professional photographer. This is one area where friends and family may not be your best bet.
Check out http://www.thrifty411.com/ for more on being thrifty and frugal.