| Weddings, like so many other things today can cost a | | | | - Borrow from others. Wear your Mom's wedding |
| bundle... But with planning and doing some work | | | | gown, your friends' jewelry, or your sister's veil. Saves |
| yourself, it can be affordable and beautiful! | | | | money and adds sentimental value to your day - for |
| I am a huge fan of having a budget; for your everyday | | | | you and others. |
| expenses, vacations, etc. So, start your wedding plans | | | | - Use fewer flowers. Decorate key areas only, such |
| with a budget. This will be one of the most special | | | | as the altar and main reception table. Use flowers that |
| days of your life - but it does not have to break the | | | | are in season or artificial silk ones. Use some balloons |
| bank! Remember this is YOUR day, so do it your way | | | | at the reception instead of all flowers. |
| and don't try to impress others. | | | | - Limit the number of attendants. Lowers your floral |
| According to some sources I found, the average US | | | | and gift cost. |
| wedding cost over $20,000! I don't know about you | | | | - Use a couple long stemmed flowers with ribbons |
| and your family, but this is way over priced for me. | | | | instead of bouquets for bridesmaids. Sometimes simple |
| That money would be better spent on a home down | | | | is more elegant! |
| payment. So, start by deciding on how much you can | | | | - Plan your wedding for an "off-season" time. Most |
| reasonably afford and go from there. If you decide to | | | | weddings are in the summer or winter and on a |
| save here and there - here's some ways to do it: | | | | Saturday. Picking a time other than these prime times, |
| Here are some wedding money savings tips: | | | | may save you money from vendors and locations. |
| - Cut back on the guest list if possible. So many | | | | - Have a non-alcoholic reception. |
| wedding items are dependent on the number of | | | | - Buy Christmas lights off-season and use them to |
| guests from food, to favors and the wedding location. | | | | decorate areas of the church or reception. |
| - Make your own wedding invitations. Stores such as | | | | - Check out all-inclusive wedding chapels that offer |
| Hobby Lobby or Michaels should become your best | | | | everything from the location, pastor, flowers, music and |
| friend! Beautiful invitation kits are available for you to | | | | reception. They usually include the use of a wedding |
| print at home and decorate yourself. You can do your | | | | coordinator. |
| own for around $1 each, compared to $2-4 each from | | | | One last note - comparison shop for a professional |
| a printing company. If you do opt for purchased | | | | photographer. This is one area where friends and |
| invitations, comparison shop! | | | | family may not be your best bet. |