Planning a wedding is an exciting time, but it’s very easy to go overboard, and in no time, your expenses could start spiraling out of control. You can have a great wedding AND keep your budget under control. This article is packed with useful tips and tricks for planning a magical wedding on a practical budget.
You can save money by choosing an off season wedding date. This would be anytime other that May through September. Venues tend to be pricier during these months. If you need to book during this time, make sure you book far in advance to get the best deal.
Wedding dresses can be very expensive. When you are dress shopping, try looking for dresses that aren’t traditional wedding dresses. Consider a bridesmaid dress, which costs less than a wedding dress but can still fit your needs. Besides, you can have a dress altered and still likely spend less than you would have on a wedding dress.
When someone is going to talk during your wedding, be sure to have them rehearse what they’re going to say in front of you so that you know what they’re saying is appropriate. At a wedding, there is normally a collection of different generations present, and you need to remember that a joke that young people find funny may actually offend older guests.
By going international with your food choices, you not only make the event different but also exciting and fun. Think outside the traditional choices of chicken or steak. Variety is essential to a wedding dinner to make it memorable for all the right reasons.
If you wish to look more stunning on your wedding day but are strapped for cash, consider renting diamonds. This will give you the stunning look that you desire but will not cost you a lot of money, allowing you to stick to your budget.
Be certain to look for skilled photographers with experience before committing to one in particular. Having a photographer take pictures you do not like would be a shame. See if your loved ones know of a good photographer or look at online reviews.
For any stylish and fashion forward bride, there is always the option to add some flare to a bouquet with a splash of diamonds, rhinestones or Swarovski crystals. This is achieved by adding in a few adhesive or heat-fixed crystals, a small piece of costume jewelry, or even a treasured heirloom piece. To make sure it coordinates with everything else you are wearing, be consistent with the colors, size and cut of the stones.
Vacation goody baskets make great delivery presents to guests at your destination wedding. The basket should contain useful items such as a map, sunglasses, disposable cameras and a hat. You may also want to include a guide for the restaurants in the area so they can choose where they prefer to eat.
The lighting at the venue hosting your wedding’s reception should be able to be dimmed. While this may appear trivial, you want to have this option, perhaps for your first dance, then brighter for the remainder of your ceremony. Be sure to find out about these details before you decide for sure.
A fun way to add a personal touch to your wedding is to ask a friend or family member to officiate the ceremony. Doing so allows for individual customization of your personal ceremony, and it can also save you having to spend money on an officiant. However, be sure to check all the required legalities before you opt for this.
Multiple course receptions should have treats on the table for guests to consume between servings. Crackers or sugar roses are excellent choices.
Flowers that are plentiful in your state may be difficult to find at your wedding location. It is best to call ahead to a professional in the area where you are planning on being married, to see which blooms are plentiful, and what they suggest for your specific taste.
Make sure that you take others into consideration when making travel arrangements. Some of your guests may be planning to vacation at the same time, and you need to give them time to make plans. If you can send out your invitations at least eight months ahead of time, it will make things easier on everyone.
Make sure you know what you are doing when it comes to a destination wedding. Before you start making travel arrangements and booking accommodations, be sure all the nuts and bolts (e.g. license fees, residency requirements, etc.) are attended to.
Hire your wedding photographer to create memories instead of simply taking photos. When scouting out photographers, always check out their prior work and their references. Inquire about the way in which they participate in each aspect of the day. It is imperative you are comfortable with their style as it will have an impact on your entire day.
Decide in advance if you will be inviting children to your wedding. If you want to save a little money and stress, you can avoid inviting children. You may find that some guests will not be able to make it because of no one to watch their children.
If you care about the bride, you will definitely be looking for ways to make sure her wedding is everything she has dreamed of. If she is left to worry about all of the planning, reservations and meals, and the wedding doesn’t live up to what she has been hoping for, it could be a disappointing day for the both of you. In order to prevent your fiancé from being upset, ensure that you run everything by her.
Write your own wedding vows. Of course, copying vows from another source is easier, but keep in mind that your partner knows you well. You will become closer to your partner and make the day more romantic by writing the vows yourself. You can use other sources for inspiration, but add your extra touches to them.
You don’t need to go over the top to have the wedding you have always wanted. Use the information you just learned to make your wedding unforgettable while saving some money for your honeymoon.