TOP 10 Budget Savvy Wedding Ideas
1.
Invest in what’s most important, spend where its most visible
not in the details easily missed. For example, invest in your décor and perhaps save on the cake and wedding favors.
2.
Cake or no cake? Consider doing donuts,
pies or mini desserts. Also, if you still want wedding cake, perhaps go to a
bakery such as Whole Foods, The Fresh Market or Publix and get 3 separate cakes
and display them on beautiful platters. One
more—fake it a little-- by having a cake display with only the top layer as the real cake (for the bride & groom to cut) and the rest can be a display cake. You can also purchase a large sheet cake (to be kept in the back) from a local grocery store and have the staff serve it to your guests.
Consider making your own flower
bouquets or having non floral decor it’s not that difficult to create and it will save you some money.
4.
Shop smartly for your decor. Sometimes you can find
cheaper options when you buy rather then rent. Don’t buy from “wedding” suppliers look at
other websites such as Amazon or party supplies etc. you just might find what
you’re looking for at a bargain price! Also- THINK ABOUT YOUR COLOR SCHEME… especially
if you have champagne taste on a beer budget. Colors can cheapen or place value
on your entire wedding look.
5.
Don’t get married on a Saturday. Fridays or Sunday’s are
becoming a hot trend. Also, consider the month and the season you are getting
married in. For example four hot months are May, June, September & October.
Also, fell free to shop around for price quotes and see if you venue will match other prices.
6.
Simplify the alcohol & food. Beer & wine is more
than fine. More alcohol = more spending. You can also offer champagne for your guests and a cash bar. This is a great way to save but still offer something to your guests, and perhaps keep the crazy to the minimum! When it comes to food, keep it
basic. One wheat item, 2 vegetables & 2 meats. Look for local restaurants
to cater. Buffets are always the cheaper option. You can also go to Sam’s and supply your own appetizers during cocktail
hour. Or consider doing a morning wedding with brunch to follow or an afternoon
wedding with a light lunch or hors d'oeuvres.
7.
DIY is not always cheaper. People often think that
all DIY projects are money savers. This is not always the case. Often, after you purchase all the supplies, the little details and all the the time it takes for your project (not to mention stress) the amount spent could very well be the same. It really depends on the project, on what is doable and what make sense for your big day. And keep in mind the results, not everything you see on Pinterest looks the same when you do it yourself!
8.
Be your own DJ. Create your own
playlist and hire an emcee (someone to announce what’s going on) or ask a
friend to do it. Just keep in mind good timelines (for example 1hr for your
guests to eat etc.). You will then be able to choose sentimental songs or songs that
you and your husband-to-be will enjoy.
9.
Find a venue that isn’t a “fixer upper”. Often brides find a “cheap”
space that may not be all that attractive and think that they can “redecorate
it” and make it stunning. Sometimes, you can but often you end up spending a
lot more than planned and you compromised on your venue.
10. Don't Over-do or Overspend. Try to always be aware
of the budget. Don’t buy something unless you need it. Often Brides get caught
up in idea’s and they find something that they “might use” or “could use” and
don’t. Or the item(s) become just extra things that are not needed. Be conscious
of your wedding dress budget and shop sales, off-the-rack styles or even consignment.
Also, when you are shopping be mindful of alterations, which can rack up
quickly. Sometimes getting the dress you want and spending a little more will
turn out the same as compromising on your dress and putting in the difference
when you’re in alterations. Try to borrow some decorations from close friends who have already tied the knot. If you can, try to borrow other accessories such as your veil, jewelry or other accessories to finish your look. Every little thing helps. Often, less is more. Try your best to not over-do. Especially if decorating is not you knack. It's better to be tasteful & simple then having too much going on.
Be Inspired & Stay Savvy
XOXO
