It’s wedding season! If you’re getting married soon, you don’t need to spend a ton of money to have a beautiful and fun wedding. Here are 10 tips to help you save money and still have the wedding of your dreams.
1.Keep the guest list to a minimum
More people means spending more on food and drinks.
2.Use your friends’ talents
Do you have any friends that are photographers, calligraphers, or chefs? See if they would be willing to donate their time and talent as their wedding gift.
3.Have the ceremony at your house or at a friend or family member’s
The venue can be the most expensive part of your wedding so try and save on costs here if you can.
4.Prepare and cook the food you’re serving
Caterers can also be expensive. Save money by cooking the food yourself. Serve food family style rather than having a plated dinner. Another option is to just have hors d’oeuvres. If you’re going light on the food, include on the invitation ‘light hors d’oeuvres’ so your guests know what to expect.
5.Have minimal flowers for decorations
Be sure to repurpose the bride’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets and make them table arrangements.
Use candles as a centerpiece on tables instead of flower arrangements.
Make paper flowers!
6.Play your own tunes
Use your own stereo equipment and play a created playlist.
If there is a local college or university near you, contact their music department and see if any music majors could play at your wedding.
7.Serve just beer and wine
8.Plan a simple honeymoon
9.Go paperless
Email your invites and have guests RSVP on your wedding website. You’ll save on stationary and stamps.
10.Have a small cake
Get a small cake to cut and then serve pieces from sheet cakes to your guests.