Every bride (and sometimes groom) to-be has one common enemy: the budget. The budget can mean the difference between your dream wedding and a wedding that isn’t quite up to par. However, instead of seeing a dollar amount and cringing, there are ways to stretch the buck when it comes to your wedding. The following is a compilation of different techniques that can help you save when you’re planning for your big day!
Photography:
Do you have a friend who has a decent camera and a good eye? Brides tend to forget that they may have the perfect photographer in their own family or circle of friends. A fun idea that can save you big is to place a disposable camera (or two) at each table. This way you don’t have to pay a photographer to attend the entire reception. Also, you may end up getting more personal photos when they come from your family and friends. Make a fake photo booth. All you need is a backdrop, a camera that’s easy to use, and some props! Have a sign with instructions by the booth and let your guests go crazy! Check your local art school for photography students. There are plenty of art students out there that will do just as well as a professional photographer for half the price! (Be sure to check out their portfolio before hiring.)
Decorations/Flowers:
Do-it-yourself! Why pay hundreds of dollars for decorations when you can make them yourself? Check out websites like DIY Network for ideas! If you’re having a seasonal themed wedding, then your wedding decorations could be growing just outside your door! Pumpkins, mums, and corn are naturally growing plants that can be used to spruce up any Fall wedding. During the spring you can head to any nearby field for flowers! Find a venue that is already pleasing to the eye. If the venue has a beautiful décor, then you will end up spending less on decorations.
Drinks/Food/Cake
When looking for a caterer, make sure you choose one that doesn’t provide alcohol. Caterers typically will up-charge alcohol by 10-15%. You can potentially save hundreds by buying your own alcohol. Also, you will then be able to buy beer by the keg and liquor by the box. When looking for a cake, ask about the possibility of having a “flower tier.” By having one tier made of flowers, you can save yourself $70+ on the cake alone! Contrary to popular belief, having a sit down meal is actually less expensive than having a buffet. Caterers have to buy extra food when providing a buffet because they cannot be sure how much each guest will eat. By having a sit-down meal, your caterer can charge you based on the exact amount of guests invited.