Whether you are planning for your own wedding or one for your son or daughter, arm yourself with some of these money saving tips for weddings. The idea is to create an event that is special and touching, one to be remembered. Unfortunately, that can often cost a fortune! The following tips will take a big bite out of the cost, allowing you to work with a smaller budget or provide the opportunity for more luxuries.
#1. Plan your wedding far in advance. The bare minimum for money savings is one year, but 18 months to 2 years has even more impact. Yes, I know it can be hard to wait that long. But keep in mind the overall wedding will be higher quality with less expense if you start planning early. Basically, a long planning time gives you more options. Whether it is the place or the photographer, you won’t be competing with as many other wedding planners. The opportunity to shop around for the best quality at the best price is much easier.
#2. Criticize your guest list. The one decision that impacts the cost of a wedding the most is the amount of people who attend. Larger facilities require a larger cost. Caterers charge by the head. Even the expense of your invitations is affected. Of course the guest list is very important, but do try to limit it somewhat. Long lost relatives or neighbors you barely know may need to be dropped to allow you to better manage your budget.
#3. The day and date of your wedding can significantly impact the cost. Be as flexible as possible in your actual wedding date. Obviously the most expensive days are also the most popular. You can have a high class wedding with a low budget by simply selecting on off-season, mid-week day. Even the time of day can greatly affect your cost. For example, serving lunch is less expensive than serving dinner.
#4. Use the same facility for the wedding and reception. Avoid the double cost of booking a separate wedding site and reception hall. If you are getting married at a church, consider using their banquet hall or outdoor garden for your reception. Look for a facility that has two rooms or one large one – you can often have the actual ceremony in one corner and the reception in another.
#5. Incorporate your wedding and honeymoon into one package. This is common with second weddings, as the couple has already experienced the first major ceremony and is looking for a more intimate setting. Have your wedding in an exotic location and spend your honeymoon there. If you were planning on going there anyway for a honeymoon, it may reduce the overall cost. Many resorts will give you package discounts for a honeymoon and wedding combination. Plus, the long travel may naturally cut your guest list back too.
Related Articles:
*Wedding on a Budget: Bridal Gown Savings
*Never too Late to Start Saving
*Why Do Weddings Cost So Much?