Budget Wedding Tips

Sometimes, saving money on a wedding can feel like a chore not worth undertaking. After all, how much money can a bride and groom possibly save when they're buying wedding favors, wedding stationery, and all of the other stuff they need when planning a wedding. Budgeting is hard... we won't deny that. But we also won't deny that it can be sooooo worth it, especially when you're paying for your wedding using your very own money.

So what does a budget wedding look like? The good news is that a budget wedding can look like every other wedding out there. Saving money on your wedding does not mean serving a cake made of Twinkies or wearing an outdated polyester wedding gown you found at a garage sale! Saving money on your wedding just means getting a little creative. If you love puzzles, you'll love finding new ways to keep cash in your pocket when planning your ceremony and reception.

To get you started, we've compiled the ten best (and easiest) ways to save money on your wedding.

1. Get married in the morning, on a Friday or a Sunday. Getting married in the winter months can also save you money.

2. Keep the guest list small. You can always have a second, larger party after the wedding to celebrate with friends and acquaintances.

3. Make your own veil. Most craft stores sell how-to books and supplies. You can save hundreds of dollars by making your own, and as DIY wedding projects go, this one is pretty easy.

4. Purchase your wedding gown at a place other than a bridal salon. Check out the prom section of the department store, or buy a gown online!

5. Supply your own alcohol if you're able to.

6. Consider not having a dinner reception. Opt instead for a brunch or afternoon tea, or try a cocktail or dessert party. You have to feed guests something, but it doesn't have to be a complete meal.

7. Use silk flowers. They always cost less than fresh flowers, plus they can be rented. Making your own bridal bouquet is easy, too.

8. Decorate with more greenery and baby's breath, and less flower blooms.

9. Make your own invitations. There are software programs available that can help you with this task, and you can purchase wedding desktop publishing paper at any office supply shop. Some stationery companies even sell easy-to-use wedding invitation kits!

10. Check out local universities for qualified and inexpensive musicians, photographers, and videographers. Professors will be able to point you to the best students in the program.


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