by Orlando LDS Weddings | Filed under Wedding Articles.
Tags: budget tips, Wedding Finances
50 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding
Do you feel like you are doomed to never receive the wedding you dreamed of? Think again! Use these great tips to cut back on costs, so your budget can accommodate your dreams.
1. Choose flowers that are in season and/or grown locally.
2. Forgo the personalized napkins.
3. Schedule the wedding between November 1 and April 30 (excluding December). By scheduling at an “off-peak” time, you’re likely to get better deals.
4. Order invitations online or through a mail-order catalog.
5. Pick a reception location that needs little or no decorations — a garden in bloom, a fully decorated reception center.
6. Avoid roses and orchids; they’re widely available but expensive.
7. Start shopping right away, especially for a gown. You won’t feel rushed into buying something and will be able to look for a good deal.
8. Avoid white flowers. They bruise easily, so florists must go through larger quantities to find good ones. This increases the cost.
9. Choose cheaper entrees, like chicken instead of beef, or pasta instead of seafood.
10. A good wedding cake is often enough dessert. You don’t need an entire dessert spread too.
11. Skip the wedding favors or opt for a cheaper variety.
12. DJ’s will generally cost less than a live band.
13. Avoid Saturday night. You’ll have more location (and price) options if you celebrate on Thursday or Friday.
14. Use less-expensive flowers, like daisies, in the bouquets.
15. Ask about package deals if you order all your stationary (invitations, thank you’s, etc.) at once.
16. If you decide to have a videographer tape your special day, say no to “extras” such as sound effects and artsy editing.
17. Find out how long the photographer will keep your negatives. You may be able to purchase your prints after the other wedding bills are paid.
18. Use the talents of family and friends. Their skills could save you money in many different areas.
19. Cut your guest list. There is no easier way to cut costs. You’ll save money on food, invitations, favors, linens and much more.
20. Get organized. Timely planning saves late fees and expensive compromises.
21. Simpler dresses are less expensive than the embellished gowns.
22. Don’t spend much on new shoes. If you are wearing a long gown, no one will see them anyway.
23. The groom and groomsmen don’t need new tuxes. Renting is much cheaper.
24. Instead of a seated dinner, consider a buffet.
25. Forgo an expensive cake topper. Crown the cake with fresh flowers or let the icing speak for itself.
26. Instead of holding your reception in a grand ballroom, try a creative, less-expensive site, like a park, a community center, a backyard, an art gallery, a theater.
27. Borrow items like punch bowls, linens and tables instead of renting.
28. If you do rent items, be sure everything is returned on time to avoid late charges.
29. Instead of a large bouquet, consider one or two large blooms, like tulips or sunflowers.
30. Use flowering potted plants for centerpieces instead of floral arrangements.
31. Be sure your fully assembled invitations are light enough to only require one postage stamp.
32. Rent or borrow your gown.
33. Order your bridesmaid dresses from a catalog. Be sure to order early though.
34. Get a small decorated cake to cut during the reception, and have sheet cakes to serve to your guests.
35. Hire students from a local university to sing or play at your reception.
36. Instead of buying individual place cards, post the seating assignments on a decorated posterboard.
37. Candles are cheaper than flowers.
38. Know a graphic designer? Have him or her help design your invitations.
39. Buy your gown from a bride who canceled her wedding. Check online, newspapers, and local college bulletin boards.
40. Borrow accessories from a friend.
41. Look for mothers’ dresses after major holidays. Visit the clearance racks.
42. Beware of the Valentine’s Day wedding, when rose prices are outrageous.
43. Use silk flowers. They’re cheaper and last longer.
44. Forgo the tissue insert in your invitations. It’s just for show.
45. Consider a single flower in a bud vase as a simple centerpiece.
46. Use your computer to design your invitations.
47. Compare photographers’ hourly fees and package deals to see which is more cost-effective for you.
48. Include your reception information on the invitation to avoid printing a separate reception/enclosure card.
49. If you purchased your dress, consider selling it to make up for other areas in your budget.
50. Use the resources and advice found at OrlandoLDSWeddings.com .
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