With the average wedding costing about $30,000 in the United States, brides are looking for any which way they can to cut costs and save money without skimping on their big day. If you’re searching for ways to save, here are some of the best ways to save (sometimes big) on your wedding.
Cut the Guest List
Although some people consider cutting the guest list, many don’t actually go through with the idea because they’re afraid of offending people. Cutting the guest list can save a lot of money for a couple even if you only cut a few. It’s not offensive, it’s smart. Unless your family is donating a lot of money to your wedding fund and they want you to invite certain guests, you shouldn’t feel bad about cutting extended family or coworkers. Be honest, and let them know you’re on a budget. If you cut your list early enough, it may even allow you to choose a smaller (and possibly cheaper) venue.
Buy in Season
This tip mostly goes for flowers – even if you don’t plan on decorating with a lot of flowers, bouquets for the bride and all the bridesmaids can get expensive. It’s a lot more expensive if you insist on flowers that don’t grow during the time you are getting married. Be sure to ask your florist before planning anything what flowers will be in season when you plan on getting married. Another thing to consider when buying in season is to talk to your caterer about in season foods. This is particularly helpful if you plan on using a caterer that uses fresh, local ingredients. If your caterer has a set price for all their sides, ask if they can work with you on price if you choose items that are in season and therefore would be cheaper to make.
Stick to an Appropriate Wedding Gown Budget
Although many brides calculate the cost of a wedding dress separately from their wedding, the truth is, the wedding gown cost is part of your wedding cost. You wouldn’t have that expense without the wedding. The appropriate percentage of the budget for a wedding dress is about 10%. So if your planning a $10,000 wedding, you should be spending no more than $1,000 on your dress. Television shows like “Say Yes to the Dress” show millions of brides that getting a good dress costs a lot, and that’s simply not true. You can find beautiful dresses at any budgets if you are a savvy shopper.
Take these tips into consideration as you plan your wedding. Saving money on the wedding could mean more for a honeymoon or home.
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