10 Ways to be Budget Savvy
[if !supportLists]1. [endif]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 to something unique with the cake, or keep the chairs simple.
2. [endif]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 put them on beautiful platters. One more—fake it a little by having cake display (with only the top cake real) and get a large sheet cake to be served by the staff.
[if !supportLists]3. [endif]Flowers don’t have to all be real. You can mix both real & fake flowers (and no one would know) and be smart, pick flowers that are in season. You can also order in bulk from a store such as Sam’s Club or Costco. One more-- pick local hydrangeas and dry them (they will last forever) and choose a color (or 2) & spray paint them. Perfecto! Consider Making your own flower bouquet, it’s not that difficult an it will save you a ton of money.
[if !supportLists]4. [endif]Shop smartly online for décor. Sometimes you can find cheaper options buying over renting. 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. [endif]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 your price.
[if !supportLists]6. [endif]Simplify the alcohol & food. Beer & wine is more than fine. More alcohol = more spending. When it comes to food, keep it basic. One wheat item, 2 vegetables & 2 meats. Look for local restaurants to cater. 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 light lunch or hors d'oeuvres.
7. [endif]DIY is not always cheaper! People often think that all DIY projects are money savers. The fact is, this is not always the case. By the time you purchase all the little details for your project and take the time and often the stress to create the amount spent will most likely be the same.
[if !supportLists]8. [endif]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). You will then be able to choose sentimental songs or songs that you and your fiancée would enjoy.
[if !supportLists]9. [endif]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. If you get married in the fall you get married in the backyard. String beautiful lights and/or lanterns and save money abd keep it beautiful.
[if !supportLists]10. [endif]Save where you can. 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 style 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,
ENJOY!
