Every couple wants to have the perfect wedding. But having the perfect wedding doesn’t mean that you have to start off your married life buried under a pile of wedding related debt. There are a lot of tips out there for saving money on your big day. But while most people know they should email their save the date cards and opt to use in season flowers, there are some more unique and lesser known ways that you can save money on your big day.
Invites
Most people decide to send simple invites that require a phone call or email in order to RSVP. But what about the money spent on stamps? To save a bit of cash, hand deliver as many of the invitations that you can.
The Dress
Wedding dresses, even off the rack wedding dresses can cost thousands of dollars. But bridesmaid and prom dresses can be purchased for as little as 200 hundred dollars. And they come in white and off white. There’s no rule that says you HAVE to wear a wedding dress. And some prom dresses are pretty fancy.
Rehearsal Dinner
A fancy rehearsal dinner at a restaurant can cost you and your fiancé a bundle. Keep it simple and have munchies at your house. Or maybe throw a pizza party. Not only will you save some cash, but the more relaxed atmosphere means that your guests will be able to mingle more.
DIY Decorations
It’s no big secret that it’s often more cost efficient to do your own wedding decorations. But to save even more money, pick up your supplies after Valentine’s Day, when red, white and pink decorations can be on sale for as much as 80% off. February the 15th is also the time to pick up any chocolate or candy you may want to serve at your reception. Search online for the best deals, coupons, and after holiday sales. You’re sure to find centerpieces, round tablecloths, candelabras, and other wedding décor to fit your budget.
No Open Bar
Forgo the open bar. Instead, include cute drink tickets as part of your guest tokens. Two drinks per guest will save you a ton of money but still keep your guests happy.
Non-Traditional Food
Instead of the traditional catered meal, why not opt for something more fun like a potluck? Ask guests to bring their favorite dish instead of a gift. Or, you could ask your local church or women’s group if they do catering. The food will be just as good but at a fraction of the cost.
Smaller Cake
For your wedding cake, why not have a small, two tier cake and a larger sheet cake already cut up and ready to serve in the kitchen? That way you can get your cake cutting pictures without spending a small fortune on the cake.
Larger Tables
Instead of tables that only seat four, use larger tables at your reception. That way you won’t need as many center pieces.
Reuse Your Flowers
If you have flower arrangements at the church, you can reuse them during your reception. Place them in front of your head table for added color.
Simple Bands
When choosing your wedding bands, opt for rings that are simple and not too over the top. You can always buy fancier bands for your 5th or 10th wedding anniversary when you don’t have the added expense of a wedding.
Accept Help
If friends or family offer to help you with any aspect of your wedding, take them up on it. Whether it’s offering to pay for your cake or help with the decoration, every little bit helps in the end.
From cutting out a couple of main dishes to DJing the dance yourself, there are endless ways that you can cut back the cost of your wedding. With a little creative thinking you can save thousands on your big day.