With my upcoming weekend nuptial drawing nearer...and considering the average cost of a wedding in the United States is spiraling toward $30,000*, I’ve been inspired to provide some money saving tips for wedding costs. These days, couples are waiting longer to get married and relying less on parents to pick up the tab. And it’s never a good idea to begin a marriage with lots of debt. Luckily, there are a lot of great ways to have a beautiful ceremony, without breaking the bank.
1. Timing is everything
When it comes to saving money, the time you have your wedding can make a huge difference. Schedule your wedding during the off season, which is typically in the late fall and winter. There will be less competition from other couples for vendors, so they might be more willing to negotiate their prices. Having your wedding on any other day than a Saturday will also drive down costs.
2. Trim the guest list
One of the quickest ways to cut down on costs is to reduce the guest list. You’ll not only save catering expenses, but also on alcohol, invitations, and favors. Don’t invite anyone out of obligation, including distant relatives, coworkers, and high school friends. Also, consider limiting the number of people in the wedding party to save on gifts and wedding day attire.
3. Cut out some of the extras
Little things like, save-the-date cards, ceremony programs, and favors all add precious dollars to your final bill. Forgo all those extras no one will miss, so you can spend money on more important things, like the photography, the entertainment, and the food. Do you really want to cut out a videographer because you spent too much on monogrammed napkins and matchbooks? Choose (and spend) wisely.
4. Do it yourself
Another way to save money is to make some of the items yourself. Many computer programs exist to help you design and print your own invitations. Fabric and craft stores carry patterns and materials to make bridal veils, ring bearer pillows and flower girl dresses. Look for community colleges and centers for classes on flower arranging and make the bouquets and centerpieces yourself. You can keep your budget on track with just a little ingenuity and hard work.
Have talented friends? If they agree to it, recruit them to help out with your wedding! Does your fiancé have a friend who’s a culinary connoisseur? Ask if he or she will make your cake or help cater the wedding. Have a younger sister who is currently in cosmetology school? She can help with the bridesmaids’ hair and makeup. If you can’t think of anyone, try networking with friends, family, and colleagues. Even if one of your coworkers can’t get you their cousin’s band for free, they might be able to swing you a hefty discount.
*Reported by The Wall Street Journal
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