Simple Money-Saving Wedding Tips

Although it’s a new year, the economy is still rebounding and many brides are looking for ways to trim their wedding budgets, which is where I come in. I wanted to share some great cost-saving tips that will keep you within budget without sacrificing the style you want for your big day.

• Wedding Dress
  Have you noticed that the price of wedding gowns has gone down? Every retailer has trunk sales, coupons and extra discounts if you buy multiple items and all you have to do is ask. They aren’t advertising these fabulous discounts, but they sure do have them! If it's the fear of someone thinking you cannot afford it that keep you from asking, does it really matter if you’re getting 20%–50% off retail? I think you might be able to muster up the courage to ask, "Is there a special promotion if I buy?" Ye who doesn't ask won't get!
• Your Venue
  Your wedding venue makes up about 45% of your wedding budget, so this definitely one area where you’ll want to save. Did you know some of the best venues are offering fabulous discounts based on date flexibility, what's served, if cash is being paid in advance or by removing items such as a full bar during dinner? I can tell you from experience that the 4-diamond locations are willing to drop your per person fee by $30–$40 per person just by having wine, beer and soft drinks during dinner.
• Alcohol
  Did you know that the most consumption happens during cocktail hour? I have a secret for you, no one really drinks heavily during dinner and a nice bottle of wine actually adds class and ambiance to your dinner. For those who insist on not having the bar close down for the hour, you can ask to run a tab, which may run you $100–$500 tops. This is a HUGE fee reduction! Does a scotch on the rocks sound good with a fillet mignon and twice-baked potatoes? YUCK! Think about it!
• Décor
  Sometimes the problem with affordable venues is their style and décor. We’ve all had the experience of walking into a room and not liking the carpet, draping or color of the walls, but there’s a simple fix for this. Why change your location when all you have to do is change the ambiance with lighting. This may run you $750–$1500 on average using LED lights from a DJ company or rentals of par cans (up lighting) in the room. With the right color and angles it does matter if you have clear cylinder vases with rose petals...the lighting changes everything and allows your investment to appear much more costly. I know deep purple is a new trend right now and by using this on the walls after you dim the lights…WOW! It's romantic, chic and makes people want to get up and dance. That does make for a fab wedding, right?

Honestly, being able to share this info with you makes me want to dance!

Everything nowadays is negotiable, and it's not going to take much to get the things you need and want. You just need to focus on getting those larger ticket items set first, then you can start on the fun details! Remember, if you plan ahead you will see savings that blow you away.

Happy planning!

xo
Samantha

Posted by Samantha at 3:23 p.m.