Have a Wedding on a Budget

Tight economic times affect all areas of life. Soon-to-be brides and grooms are feeling the effects of less money with which to ‘tie-the-knot.’ That being the case, you will find the following as areas that are being trimmed from the list of expenses of a wedding.

List priorities. Couples and families must confer and determine what the priorities are and what things can be eliminated or cut in order to rein in costs. The days of lavish weddings with no thought to prices are over.

Fewer guests. Guest lists can be trimmed by sending out a smaller amount of invitations. This can help keep the food bill in check.

Lower food bill. No salads, limited entre selection. Using these tips can help cut dollars off of the per-plate price. Limiting alcohol can help, too. Some couples who are on a severely limited budget might choose to go with a cash-only bar. Others choose a ticket system whereby the first drink or so is free and then the rest are cash-only.

Less expensive venues. Public locations vs. large reception halls is becoming a popular choice. Outdoor parks provide great settings for a reception, but can be difficult if the weather does not cooperate. But, even less expensive reception halls can be found in most communities. The challenge can be in finding a location that can handle the number of guests expected.

Out of season weddings. Couples can consider having a wedding in the off-months. April, May, June, July and August are the most popular wedding months. Scheduling on the months opposite these can bring savings because the demand for services is not as high, thus the prices are lower as well.

Make your own decorations. Resourceful couples may turn to creating their own decorations. They might even make the invitations as well. Anything that is labor intensive can be co-opted by family members or those who charge less. Table and hall decorations can be done on low budgets just by shopping around at discount party store outlets.

Set a budget / ask for discounts. Being bold and asking for lower prices on services has never been more in vogue than it is right now. It is easier to do once you realize that those companies who offer the services are feeling the financial pinch as well and so might be more willing to perform at a discount.

Look for bargains. Most brides-to-be know about their wedding months in advance, so it helps to begin the search for a wedding gown right away in order to see if a good deal can be found in the off-season months.

One area that you do not want to skimp: photography. You can ask for discounts, but avoid booking a photographer based solely on price. Remember that these are pictures that you will cherish the rest of your life. Your wedding is among the most treasured of events. Make sure that the pictures capture the joy and happiness of that day.

You can save significant money on your wedding using the tips above. Remember, it is not the amount of money that is spent that makes the day special, rather it is the people and event that brings people together on such a special occasion.