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. Fortunately, there are many ways to enjoy the wedding of your dreams without going broke. As you begin preparing, follow through and apply as many of the below tips as needed to see what kind of funds you can save up behind the scenes.
If you are hosting a destination wedding, your guests may appreciate receiving a basket of vacation goodies in their room on their arrival. Include maps, cameras, hats, disposable cameras, or guides on local attractions that they may want to visit. Furthermore, a Zagat guide or other culinary guide is useful for any gift basket of this theme!
Really consider your vows, as this is one of the central parts of a wedding ceremony. Marriage is very serious and is a strong way to commit to someone, understand that you both might have to make some sacrifices. Express your love for the other person in your vows.
A wedding dress is a big expense. Look at dresses that aren't actually classified as wedding dresses. They are usually much less expensive but they can be just as beautiful. A bridesmaid dress, for example, could look stunning on your figure and will typically be less than half the price of an actual wedding gown. Even with some alterations to complete your vision for the dress, it could be less expensive in the end.
Keep the bride happy on her special day by ensuring that all details meet her high standards. If she's stressed about planning, and it's a less than perfect wedding, it can destroy her. A Bridezilla will be on your hands if you do not let her make decisions.
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. You can achieve this look by using heat-fixed or adhesive crystals or small pieces of costume jewelry. Make sure that it will match everything else in your wedding outfit by remaining consistent with the colors you choose, the cut, and also the size of your stones.
Choosing centerpieces for your reception tables can be a difficult and costly decision. Keep your centerpieces very simple instead of large and ornate. Simple centerpieces help keep the table from feeling cluttered and make it easier for guests to talk to each other.
If you are going to have a destination wedding, give your guests a basket filled with exotic goodies. Some examples of items that you should put in the basket include: disposable cameras, sun hats, sun glasses and tourist maps and guides. Additionally, you may want to include a local restaurant guide so that your guests know where to eat.
Purchasing a wedding gown online can save a lot of money. If you decide to go this route, purchase the dress early so you will have time to get it altered. A certain person claims to have spent only $100 or her gown, but had to spend another $200 to get it altered. The cost of an alteration should also be included in your budget.
Finding your perfect wedding dress might be an expensive activity. When you are shopping, try getting a dress that might not be traditionally thought of as one made for a wedding. You could get a bridesmaid's dress, and it would be just a fraction of the cost. Even if this dress is not perfect and you need some adjustments made to make it your dream dress, it could still run you quite a bit less then an actual wedding dress.
If the bride and groom share a fondness for travel, look for decorative elements that convey a shared sense of wanderlust. Invitation can be designed to resemble a travel brochure, boarding pass or vintage postcard. A classic leather suitcase may be kept open to show family photos, wedding programs or favors.
Consider your different options to find the right type of alcohol for your wedding. An open bar can be very expensive over a long time period. Ask the venue about their various alcohol service options.
Don't hesitate to delegate important tasks to people that can handle it and that you know you can trust. Your wedding is a major life event, so it's natural to want to be part of the entire process to make sure it goes right. You can overdo it though, so you may want a trusted pro who has expertise in this area.
Weddings are joyous occasions but they also bring a lot of stress and drama into play. Use the information and tips from this article to make your wedding and wedding planning as stress-free as possible.