February 11th

Photo Credit: Kunio Photography

Tip of the Day: It's important to plan fun, affordable dates with your fiancé to relieve some of that wedding-planning stress. Skip the ultra-expensive dinner and visit a restaurant during a live performance, where you can still dress up and stop in for a drink or two at the bar. Check your town's recreation website for fabulous festivals and free concerts, great low-budget excursions that get you out of wedding world.

Plus, check out 20 Cheap Date Ideas.

X

21 Hacks Every Budget-Conscious Couple Should Know

Weddings can be expensive. The average cost last year was over $30,000, and engaged couples are using smart ways to save without compromising their big day dreams. For the pair who wants to save a little cash with clever shortcuts, here are 21 money saving hacks that every couple should know.

By: Alexia Conley for Loverly

Enter Slideshow
  • Choose a Friday or Sunday date.

    Choose a Friday or Sunday date.

     Saturday night weddings are prime time! To save money on venues and vendors, consider having your "I dos" on an off evening. Your big day will still be oh-so-fun, and with a Friday or Sunday wedding, you can host other celebratory activities that weekend.

    Photo Credit: Ueda Photography

  • Opt for a standing ceremony

    Opt for a standing ceremony

    Electing to use no chairs (save for a few chairs for elderly or disabled guests) can save money on the rental furniture costs. Just make sure your ceremony is short and sweet if attendees will be standing.

    Photo Credit: Maxwell Monty Photography

  • Buy a pre-owned wedding dress

    Buy a pre-owned wedding dress

    To stay on budget, consider buying a used dress or a floor sample gown. These gently-used versions retail at a fraction of the price.

    Photo Credit: Vanessa Joy Photography

  • Stock up on coupons for crafting

    Stock up on coupons for crafting

    Craft stores like Michaels and AC Moore offer discounts each week. If you're planning to do a little shopping in their wedding sections or if you want to get your DIY on, stock up on coupons or download the app to get the best deals. Insider tips: Both stores honor each other's coupons, and on the Michaels app, you can use the same coupon every day until it expires.

    Photo courtesy of 100 Layer Cake

  • Be your own DJ

    Be your own DJ

    Create a playlist on Spotify or iTunes and play music through the venue's sound system.

    More from Loverly:

    February 2016 Love and Relationship Horoscopes
    15 Things Every Couple is Thinking While Making Their Guest List

    Photo Credit: Turn Loose the Art

  • Serve up a spread of delightful sweets

    Serve up a spread of delightful sweets

    Creating a dessert bar can be a cheaper alternative to the wedding cake. You can purchase the treats from local establishments, set up a candy or cookie bar, or even ask friends and relatives to bake some tasty confections for an on-budget dessert display.

    Photo Credit: Abby Rose Photo

  • Have your baker create a faux cake

    Have your baker create a faux cake

    Ask your baker to make the top tier of your cake real (for cutting). Then, create other tiers out of styrofoam and decorate it accordingly. Your presentation cake will still be gorgeous while saving a few dollars — and you can have sheet cakes in the back for serving.

    Photo Credit: Elegantly Iced

  • Use bouquet flowers as centerpieces

    Use bouquet flowers as centerpieces

    After the ceremony, have your florist or coordinator place the bouquets in vases for your tables.

    Photo Credit: Sarah K. Chen Photography

  • Keep stemware simple

    Keep stemware simple

    Instead of going overboard with your glassware, go for minimal and classic. You'll keep more money in your pocket.

    Photo Credit: Rashon Carraway

  • Sometimes, buying is cheaper than renting

    Sometimes, buying is cheaper than renting

    When it comes to décor items, table settings, and linens, sometimes it's better to purchase outright. Once you get a quote from the rental company, determine whether it's more cost effective for you to purchase them. You may even be able to sell the items after to make a little money back.

    Photo Credit: Kevin Kelley Photography

  • Consider a buffet

    Consider a buffet

    With guests serving themselves, it can considerably cut some of the waitstaff fees.

    Photo Credit: Dominique Bader Photography

  • Create wedding signage instead of printing hundreds of paper items

    Create wedding signage instead of printing hundreds of paper items

    Display the menu or program on a canvas or in a frame as opposed to printing one for each guest. Trust us, it'll be totally cost effective.

    Photo Credit: Candice Benjamin Photography

  • Serve a signature cocktail instead of having an open bar

    Serve a signature cocktail instead of having an open bar

    Get crafty with your mixed drinks to ensure that you don't over-spend on liquor. Serve guests beer and wine with one specialty drink, like a mint julep or a martini to wet their whistles.

    Photo Credit: AkaPertyfultings/Etsy

  • Provide your own alcohol

    Provide your own alcohol

    If the caterer allows you to purchase alcohol for the reception, you could potentially save some big bucks. By eliminating the vendor's markup, your finances will stay in tact. However, you'll be putting in extra time to purchase and deliver the alcohol to your big day venue.

    Photo Credit: D. Park Photography

  • Purchase flowers wholesale online

    Purchase flowers wholesale online

    If you're planning to DIY your flowers, look into purchasing them online. A retailer like FiftyFlowers helps cut costs and increases the variety of blooms available to you.

    Photo Credit: The Natural Wedding Company

  • Get creative with the bouquet

    Get creative with the bouquet

    Ask your florist to use a few impactful flowers, and then fill-in with less expensive blooms, like Queen Anne's lace and baby's breath. This will help make each arrangement cost less.

    Photo Credit: Carley Rehberg Photography

  • Let your fave market be the big day caterer

    Let your fave market be the big day caterer

    Some supermarkets, like Whole Foods, offer specialty floral and catering services. Check your local store to see if they provide any services you can incorporate into your reception.

    Photo courtesy of Publix

  • Have your ceremony and reception at the same place

    Have your ceremony and reception at the same place

    If you opt for one wedding site, you'll cut the costs associated with renting two venues and the transportation between spaces.

    Photo Credit: Aaron Delesie

  • Use credit cards to purchase services and get rewards

    Use credit cards to purchase services and get rewards

    You should invest in a card that offers cash rewards or airline miles. Then you can spend your perks on other "I do" items or put those bonuses toward your honeymoon.

    Photo Credit: iStockphoto

  • Follow vendors on social media for discounts

    Follow vendors on social media for discounts

    Sometimes, businesses will give special promotions or discounts to their Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram fans! Follow along to see if they offer any deals.

    Photo courtesy of Written Word Calligraphy/Instagram

  • Find a venue that

    Find a venue that's flexible with vendors

    Look for a space that allows you to use caterers, florists, and bakers outside of their preferred list. If you choose a location that requires you to use their partners, you'll be locked into using vendors that might be out of your range.

    Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

22 / 21
ALL PHOTOS

21 Hacks Every Budget-Conscious Couple Should Know

X

February 10th

Photo Credit: Photography by Jen Philips

Tip of the Day: If someone assumes they’re invited to your wedding, but they haven’t made the cut for your guest list, call them to say, “I’m so sorry, but we had to make difficult choices due to our venue's space.” That’s not something they can argue about, and works better than citing your budget. They’ll be disappointed and embarrassed that they assumed, so be gentle and apologetic, but don’t get talked into inviting them.

Plus, check out How to Keep Your Wedding Guest List Under Control.

X

The Dos and Don'ts of Bridesmaid Gifts

Find the perfect way to say "thank you" to the friends and family members who have always supported you.

By: Katelyn Helgeson

Enter Slideshow
  • Do reflect on past experiences

    Do reflect on past experiences

    Have you been a bridesmaid in the past? What did you like or dislike about your experience? Is there anything you wished the bride provided? Choose a gift that'll make their lives a little easier.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Don’t disclose to your bridesmaids what you got them

    Don’t disclose to your bridesmaids what you got them

    Making it a surprise is so much more fun!

    Photo Credit: LaVie Photography

  • Do tie the bridesmaid gifts into the groomsmen gifts

    Do tie the bridesmaid gifts into the groomsmen gifts

    This can be a way to develop camaraderie among the groups. For example, if the bridesmaids receive earrings, the groomsmen may receive cufflinks. Or select tote bags for your bridesmaids and duffle bags for the groomsmen.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Don’t include your wedding date on the gift

    Don’t include your wedding date on the gift

    Include it on the thank-you card instead. This your big day, not theirs, so the date will carry lesser significance to them (parents are a different story, though!).

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Do include a thank-you card

    Do include a thank-you card

    Sometimes it's the gifts that cost nothing at all that can be the most meaningful. Write each of your bridesmaids a personal note to thank her for her friendship and support through the years.

    Photo Credit: Shop Sandra Smith/Etsy

  • Don

    Don't make it your responsibility to find gifts for the groomsmen

    While you can certainly give him some suggestions, only he can decided on the most appropriate gifts for his nearest and dearest.

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Do include yourself

    Do include yourself

    Planning a wedding is extremely stressful; treat yourself to a gift as well! Matching gifts, like robes, can provide fun group photo opportunities.

    Photo Credit: LaVie Photography

  • Don’t wait to order the gifts till the last minute

    Don’t wait to order the gifts till the last minute

    You don't want to be shopping for your bridesmaids' gifts the week of your wedding; the stress isn’t worth it.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Do keep it appropriate for all ages

    Do keep it appropriate for all ages

    If your bridesmaids’ ages range considerably, keep this in mind when picking out gifts (maybe skip the monogrammed flask for your underage sister!). Varying generations may have different perceptions of the gifts.

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Don’t think about just your wedding when selecting bridesmaid gifts

    Don’t think about just your wedding when selecting bridesmaid gifts

    If some of your bridesmaids have been in enough weddings to rival 27 Dresses, do a little digging and see if you can find out what they've received from other weddings. You don't want to give her yet another monogrammed clutch.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Do be mindful of sensitive subjects

    Do be mindful of sensitive subjects

    Avoid uncomfortable situations by making sure your gifts do not conflict with any of your bridesmaids' beliefs, personal struggles, or health concerns. 

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Don’t give gag gifts

    Don’t give gag gifts

    If you have a more lighthearted friendship, it can be tempting to give your bridesmaid a silly gift that'll make her laugh — but we'd recommend reserving any gag gifts for the bachelorette party and giving something more sentimental for the wedding. 

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Do consider how long your bridesmaids will be in heels

    Do consider how long your bridesmaids will be in heels

    If you and your bridesmaids will be spending a significant amount of time in heels, provide each of your bridesmaids with a cute pair of flats for dancing. 

    Photo Credit: LaVie Photography

  • Don’t spend your time or money on superfluous purchases

    Don’t spend your time or money on superfluous purchases

    Focus on quality rather than quantity. Bridesmaids are some of the most valued people in your life; your gift should reflect this.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Do remember your flower girls

    Do remember your flower girls

    Your flower girs most likely think the world of you and your bridesmaids. Engage them in the day by treating them with a kid-friendly gift. 

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Don’t require your bridesmaids to pay for additional services

    Don’t require your bridesmaids to pay for additional services

    If you want everyone to be manicured and red carpet-ready, surprise them by covering the beauty-related costs yourself. Splurge on a makeup team for the wedding morning, or arrange a girls' day at the salon for manicures a few days before.

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Do make it personal

    Do make it personal

    This gift should be symbolic of your relationships between you and your bridesmaid. If you choose identical gifts for your girls, add a personal touch with monograms.

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Don’t ignore the environment

    Don’t ignore the environment

    If your wedding is in a cool climate, think about possible gifts to keep them warm — especially between taking wedding party pictures. 

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Do think about traveling bridesmaids

    Do think about traveling bridesmaids

    Not only are plane tickets expensive, but travel can also take up a significant amount of time. Think about gifts that may ease the travel process for your bridesmaids.

    Photo Credit: The Sleepy Cottage/Etsy

  • Don’t assume traveling bridesmaids will have extra room in their suitcases for your gift

    Don’t assume traveling bridesmaids will have extra room in their suitcases for your gift

    Play it safe by giving them something compact, durable, and TSA approved! 

    Photo Credit: Hello Dreamer

  • Do consider the gift of time

    Do consider the gift of time

    After the wedding, it sometimes becomes "work" to keep up your relationships with your best girlfriends. Give the gift of time together — a spa gift certificate for a girls' day or tickets for a play or concert to attend together. Time to share with those you love is a gift in and of itself.

    Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

  • Don’t try to meet everyone’s greatest desire

    Don’t try to meet everyone’s greatest desire

    Save the over-the-top-gifting for her birthday. You'll drive yourself crazy if you try to hunt down the "perfect" gift for each bridesmaid — and likely blow your budget. Give yourself a reasonable price cap before you start searching.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Do send your bridesmaids photos from the wedding

    Do send your bridesmaids photos from the wedding

    Whether you opt for an electronic copy or prints, photographs are always keepsakes. Give each of your bridesmaids a personalized frame to hold your favorite photo together.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

  • Don’t feel you have to stretch your budget for coveted bridesmaid gifts

    Don’t feel you have to stretch your budget for coveted bridesmaid gifts

    Go DIY! Consider making this pyramid wristlet purse, embroidering an old fashioned linen handkerchief, or sprucing up some bland hair accessories.

    Photo Credit: Pretty Prudent

  • Do include your mother and mother-in-law

    Do include your mother and mother-in-law

    The wedding day would not exist without them. Additionally, they most likely will be heavily involved with your day, perhaps to an even greater degree than your bridesmaids. A higher quality piece of jewelry or an engraved picture frame to fill with a family shot from the wedding make perfect gifts for moms.

    Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

26 / 25
ALL PHOTOS

The Dos and Don'ts of Bridesmaid Gifts

X

February 9th

Photo Credit: Brendon Pinola Photography

Tip of the Day: Having trouble finding your dream wedding gown? Don't get frustrated—first, make sure you're not committing one of these 10 common dress-shopping mistakes. Choose a reputable retailer and find a bridal consultant that you feel comfortable with (ask other brides and your wedding vendors for recommendations). Instead of shopping with an entourage, bring only a few loved ones who you trust won't persuade you into buying a dress you're not entirely happy with. Lastly, be open to trying on styles and silhouettes that you may have never considered before, since that so-so gown on the hanger could actually look amazing on your figure. Don't feel pressured to buy something at your first appointment or cry tears of joy when you do eventually find The One; every bride's experience is unique!

Plus, browse hundreds of gorgeous styles in our Wedding Gown Gallery.

X

15 Spectacular Ideas For Your Wedding Sendoff

While the days of the newlyweds departing before the reception has ended may be over — most couples today stay until the very last dance and continue on the after party — that doesn't mean you can't have a memorable farewell. Here, check out some of our favorite ideas.

By: Kristen Klein

Enter Slideshow
16 / 15
ALL PHOTOS

15 Spectacular Ideas For Your Wedding Sendoff

X

Pages

Subscribe to BridalGuide RSS