Every girl dreams of her “big day.” Wearing a white dress, walking down the aisle, marrying the love of her life- these are all things that little girls dream of. Now, paying for that big dream is a whole different ball game. A wedding typically costs an average American couple about $35,426, excluding the honeymoon expenses.
However, you are not legally obligated to spend such a huge price tag to give your relationship a new shape with a commitment to live together forever. Most couples do not want to spend that much. We asked money experts and wedding specialists how to set a reasonable budget and cut costs on some significant expensive wedding elements. Here are eight great insights you can apply to save money on your wedding day.
Be Realistic
Most couples do not see how much their wedding will cost them. As a result, they usually miss the mark and set a realistically too low budget, thus far exceeding their plan. Such a situation can push them under a heavy burden of debt. Starting a marriage in debt is certainly not ideal, as the beauty and happiness of the marital relationship are lost in paying off debt for months and months.
Consequently, to save money, set realistic spending limits considering every aspect of your wedding. If you suspect overspending in one area, attempt cutting back on another. It is just like doing bookkeeping when preparing a budget for your marriage. In addition, if you start by being money-conscious and budget-appropriate with your wedding, it will set you up for this pattern further down the line.
Use Your Credit Card Wisely
It is okay to use a credit card for purchases related to your wedding as long as you charge only the amount you can conveniently afford to pay off. Make the most of your accumulated credit card points towards your honeymoon, especially when you possess a card with great travel rewards.
Book a Sunday
Although Saturday is the most popular day for weddings, it is usually the most expensive day to have your ceremony. Therefore, you are likely to avail yourself of a venue reservation at a much lower price when choosing a Sunday or weeknight for your marriage. While it may not be the most convenient for your guests, it will save you a lot of money.
Choose a Religious Day
For religious marriages, consider having your wedding on or near a major holiday when the church is already decorated. Having the decorations covered can enable you to save money on flowers and other decorations. While on other days, go for simplicity. A candlelit ceremony can be inexpensive, gorgeous, and romantic. Furthermore, a Christmas wedding is always beautiful.
Trim Your Guest List
When you add a guest’s name to your invitation list, you increase the wedding budget significantly. In addition to catering costs, these additional guests also require extra centerpieces, rentals, favors, etc. Although you may ruffle a few feathers, avoid inviting anyone you have not communicated with for the past five years. There is no reason to feel pressured or obligated to invite each of your work colleagues.
Consider making your wedding an “adult-only” occasion. This way, you won’t be stuck paying for everyone’s children, as it will get pricey. In addition, you can save a lot of money by eliminating categories like ‘friends from volunteer work’ or ‘relatives other than first cousins.’ Yes, we know that “Aunt Sue” may be briefly upset that you aren’t inviting her third cousin from Australia, but she’s not the one footing the bill when it’s all said and done.
Save Postage on Your Invitations
Choose simple, sleek cards in standard envelopes for your wedding invitations. Instead of having a reply card, ask your guests to reply by telephone or online. There are so many websites out there that offer an RSVP option these days. Electronic RSVPs will save money from bulky, expensive cards and cut your postage costs in half.
Look for Reasonable Food and Drink Options
A couple should always be honest with their caterer about the necessity of saving money. Ask them for the least expensive entrees and whether or not a buffet will be cheaper than a seated dinner. Determine whether they will allow you to bring your liquor or if serving just beer and wine is much cheaper than a complete bar. Better yet, consider serving tea and water instead of expensive alcoholic drinks. If not, it is a good idea to open the bar only during the cocktail hour and then serve only wine with dinner.
Take Advantage of eBay
eBay is an excellent source for your wedding, from second-hand clothes to marriage favors, ring pillows, cake toppers, and more. Show patience for the auction to end and for shipping. Find a reliable seller whose product reviews demonstrate that the sale is of the same quality as they claim.
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