Weddings don’t have to be expensive. Simple solutions, such as DIY wedding favours, go a long way in lowering the budget. A lovely and memorable wedding can be had without going into debt. Here are five easy money saving tips to help you have your dream wedding on a tight budget.
Do it yourself! The Internet is full of websites to help you create your own DIY wedding favours, centrepieces, flower arrangements and more! Check your favourite bookstores for books and bridal magazines featuring DIY patterns and ideas.
Ask your friends and family for help. Is your cousin a fantastic photographer? Ask him to be the wedding photographer as his gift. Does your best friend work at a flower shop or bakery? See if she can get you a discount. Is your future sister-in-law great at applying makeup or doing hair? Do what you can on your own and with the help of friends and family. Ask your bridesmaids to help with DIY wedding favours and other projects. Ask the cooks in your family to help prepare the food. Ask around to figure out who has connections to the goods and services you need. You may be able to find many of the items on your list for a deep discount or free just by asking.
Don’t splurge on a designer gown. You want to look and feel special and beautiful, but be realistic. You are going to wear this dress once and for just a few hours. Scour the Internet for clearance sales. Consider buying second hand from a consignment shop or online auction website. If something a bit simpler might fit with your style, look at the clearance racks at department stores for white evening gowns. Follow the same tips for shoes and accessories. You may be able to borrow a veil or tiara from a friend or family member. Borrowing a treasured item will help you feel extra special on your big day and save you some money.
Decide what is most important to you and make paying for quality in that area a high priority. You and you’re betrothed may be foodies or music lovers. If so, skimping on catering services or the entertainment might be too much of a sacrifice for you. However, you might be fine with cutting the budget for flowers drastically.
Scale down. Do you really need everyone you have ever met to be at your wedding? Be discriminate when making your guest list. Smaller weddings simply cost less. Consider low-cost venues, such as a community centre, park, or family member’s backyard. Serve appetisers instead of a full meal and consider forgoing alcohol. You might find that scaling down helps with both your budget and your stress level!
