Once a budget has been established, then you can use it as a guide to help you in each stage of the wedding planning process. Contrary to popular belief, it is quite possible to have a beautiful wedding on a tight budget ... you just have to know where to look!
There are two major factors that can strongly affect the cost of your wedding. The first is the size of the guest list and the second is the time of day that you get married. Wedding costs are primarily based on the size of your wedding, including the bridal party and guests. Keep in mind that a smaller wedding will cost you less money! Also, the time of your wedding is another factor affecting cost. Afternoon or morning weddings with a simple cake and punch reception or brunch will be less costly then an evening wedding where a full meal is expected. In addition, a wedding day other than a Saturday will more than likely result in cheaper rates.
After you have determined when your wedding will take place and the size of the guest list, here are some other suggestions to help you cut costs in the major budget categories:
Attire:
There are actually several companies out there designed to help brides save money when purchasing their bridal gowns as well as attendants' dresses. One such company is Discount Bridal Service Inc. Discount Bridal Service is the original Personal Buying Service for Brides. Its international company allows brides to purchase first-quality wedding gowns, veils, attendants' dresses and more at 20 percent to 40 percent off the suggested retail prices. If you would like more information on Discount Bridal and its services, please contact me. This can provide substantial savings for the exact same dress that you would find in a boutique!
If you would especially like to minimize costs for your attendants, choose a color and let each of your bridesmaids choose their own dress in any length or style to wear for the wedding. This gives them the ability to buy a dress from a department store or retail shop that suits their style and you increase the chances of them wearing the dress again after the wedding!
Ceremony and Decorations:
Most ceremony sites (i.e. churches, banquet halls, etc) come equipped with several items that you can use for decoration during the ceremony at no additional cost. For example, most churches have candelabras, kneelers, greenery, and more. They will usually supply these items at little or no cost to couples who use their facilities.
If you are really trying to save money on decorations, consider getting married during the holiday season. Holiday weddings tend to save on décor as churches and reception sites usually have holiday decorations already in place.
To add a personal touch to a reception site or ceremony, use votive candles, rose petals, tulle bows, etc. Each of these items adds a romantic effect and can be purchased relatively inexpensively.
Flowers:
The number one suggestion for minimizing costs in the floral category is to use flowers that are going to be in season when your wedding takes place. Go to your local bookstore and flip through some gardening books to find information on what flowers will be in season during the month of your wedding and plan accordingly. If you want to further cut costs where flowers are concerned, consider having your bridesmaids carry single stem flowers as opposed to bouquets. Also, use loose flowers and petals rather than arranged centerpieces or displays.
Invitations and Programs:
There are several ways in which to save money when ordering invitations. First of all, have the reception site printed on the invitation as opposed to getting a separate reception card. Also, if you need to have a response card, choose a postcard response, which is still elegant, yet it saves money on postage. In addition, choose your invitation carefully to avoid excessive postage.
As far as programs are concerned, I would strongly suggest doing them yourself on your own computer. Any simple word processing program will give you the layout capabilities to design the exact program that you desire. Once the wording and layout are set, buy a ream of paper from an office supply store and take it to be printed at a copy store where it can also be folded and hole punched if necessary.
Photography:
The most obvious solution to saving money in this category is to have a friend take the pictures. This is a great idea, but if you want a professional try the following: When you are finding out prices from photographers ask them exactly what each price includes. Most packages include the sitting fees, proofs, and a nice album for the bride and groom. Ask them if you could get a price without the album and come back and purchase it later down the road ... you'll be surprised what a cost difference this could make!
This article is just scratching the surface in terms of savings. There are numerous ways that you can cut costs. You just have to be patient in finding them. I wish I could give every bride out there a coupon that would allow her to have the exact wedding she desires within the budget she can afford. I can't exactly do that, but here are three "coupons" from One who can help you more than me:
- Coupon for Contentment:
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." -Philippians 4:12
- Coupon for Creativity:
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward ..." Colossians 3:23-24
- Coupon for Calm:
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." -Isaiah 26:3
Each of these verses can be redeemed for more than any material coupon could ever save you. Even as you strive to keep your budget, keep in mind that Jesus Christ is the ultimate wedding planner and without Him your wedding as well as your marriage will not be complete.
Jordan Browning owns her own wedding business ”Ever After” and is an Authorized Discount Bridal Service Representative. Jordan works with brides to help them create their dream wedding at an affordable price. If you would like more information on how you can save money while planning your wedding feel free to contact Jordan at jordanbrowning@yahoo.com.
