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. (more…)

Tags: budget tips, Wedding Finances

There are no absolute guidelines regarding who pays for what. The following list states the traditional expense breakdown. However, this is something that needs to be decided upon by both the bride’s and the groom’s families.

Bride and her family

• Wedding dress, headpiece/veil, and accessories
• Announcements/invitations, thank you cards, and postage
• Cost of reception: hall rental, food, flowers, decorations, entertainment, etc.
• Groom’s wedding band
• Physical exam
• Gifts for groom and bride’s attendants
• Photography
• Wedding video
• Attendants’ bouquets
• Wedding consultant’s fee
• Guest book
• Mother’s dress

Possibly
Bridesmaids’ dresses
Accommodations for bride’s out-of-town guests (more…)

Tags: Wedding Finances