On any given day in America, a small child is dreaming of their wedding day. They might imagine ice sculptures or a multi-tier wedding cake. As fantasies meet reality, especially with many couples paying for the big day themselves, some aspects must change to meet the budget. Read on to discover ways to save on your big day:
Consider reception halls
Venues are the largest expense of a wedding. The location, the reception venue, the ceremony site, and transportation to and from the ceremony can account for $19,163 (The Knot) of the total cost or 54 percent of a wedding in America. If the backyard isn’t your style, consider reception halls. Many of them will offer price discounts on certain days and some even allow you to bring in your own catering.
Keep your wedding small
Take a look at your guest list. A smaller guest list means a smaller venue, less transportation, invitations, favors, catering and décor. Sit down with your intended and discuss which guests can be cut. Family should be looked at last, but co-workers or friends that have not kept in touch over the years can be culled from the event. Make sure that both of you agree. If family is helping to pay for the wedding, ask for their input to avoid hurt feelings.
Be Frugal on the Flowers
Flowers are a statement piece for any wedding. However, they’re also one of the most expensive components of a wedding. While flowers are often non-negotiable for couples, there are some tricks to help you save.
Speak with your florist about your frugal flower aspirations. While you won’t be able to get peonies on a carnation budget, there are various options that fall in between the two. Depending on the season, you may be able to get a luxury flower on a reasonable budget.
Alternatively, if you’re unable to compromise on the flowers, consider repurposing them. You can turn flowers from your arbor into centerpieces for the tables, put your bouquet flowers into table vases at the reception and line the hall with the flowers from the ceremony aisle. Learn how to arrange flowers like a pro and transfer your décor from the ceremony site to the reception venue.
The cost of your wedding doesn’t have to determine the beauty of it.