It can be tough reaching a compromise when you’re planning your wedding. Many brides-to-be want to blow their budget, much to the horror of their exasperated fiancé. However, there are plenty of ways you can save cash on some of the smaller things, freeing up the budget for the things you really want to splash out on. By sitting down together and making a budget, you can decide what you could compromise on, and where you’d like to splurge, like the dress and honeymoon. Here are just a few of the areas where cutting costs can be easy.
Transport
Many people choose a big white limo or luxury car for their entrance, but think about whether this is necessary. If you are having your ceremony and reception in the same place, then you may not even need a wedding car. However, if you need to make a great entrance, then consider whether having a friend drive your car is an option. If you’re buying a new car soon anyway, then choosing a car on finance can allow you something more luxurious. Add some ribbons and you’ve got a gorgeous, cheap wedding car. Look into an online car loan specialist for further details. You could also borrow a car for the day from a friend or family member who is a car lover. Lots of people own classic cars, SUVs or other vehicles suitable for a wedding, and loaning you their keys for the day could even be their wedding gift to you. With the average wedding limo costing $753 for the day, saving that cash means a big chunk of change to spend elsewhere.
Photography
Although a photographer’s job isn’t easy, they know they can add another zero to the end of their price when it comes to photographing a wedding. It’s not something you want to go too cheap on, as it’s important to have great memories, but consider some other options to cut down the estimate. Many photography students will do the job for a reasonable price, in exchange for using your photos in their portfolio. Have a look through their sample work before making a decision, and if possible get references from previous weddings they have covered. You should be able to find amateur or student photographers advertising on sites like Craigslist, and they are often very talented and enthusiastic.
Cut down on having to have a second wedding photographer at the reception by asking guests to take plenty of candid shots. Couples used to supply disposable cameras, but with so many cellphones around, this is slightly dated. Open a Flickr account and give guests the username and password. They can then upload their photos after the ceremony, meaning you have them all in one place online.
Cake
The wedding cake is the centerpiece of the reception, and bakers certainly know how to charge for their creations. Save money by ordering a small but beautiful tiered cake, then having sheet cakes in the kitchen to be cut up and served. Your guests won’t even notice the difference, and everyone is happy as long as they get a slice. Some couples have even gone for fake tiers on a wedding cake, with only the top tier being edible. This can be a good idea if you want something elaborate, but just don’t have the budget. With cakes costing anything from $300 to over $1,000 at times, it’s certainly an area where you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Speak to your cake maker and be honest about your budget and requirements, together you can find a style that suits your pocket.
Hair and beauty
When it comes to beauty treatments, seeking out talented family members could save you nearly $500. A trainee hairdresser can usually manage a simple up-do, and a make up loving friend can give you and your bridal party a glamorous look. Visit the make up counters of department stores for a free consultation and to stock up on products, and always make sure you do a run through before the big day. If you decide to try some at home beauty treatments like waxing or facials, never ever do them the night before the wedding. If you have any allergic reactions, you’ll need a few days to recover, and products like face masks can cause nasty break outs the next day. Give yourself a couple of days to recover before the ceremony.
Although everyone wants to have the most beautiful wedding possible, every bride has to compromise on one or two aspects of their day. By cutting down on some of the smaller details, you’ll have the money to spoil yourself in other ways, so plan your budget carefully and you’ll have a day to remember. Visit www.BestForBride.com for more tips.
Although I agree there are places to save money I would consider cutting down on decor, flowers or guest count before photography! This is a once in a lifetime event that requires experience not just a good camera! The reason wedding photography is expensive is because you’re paying for a skill set from people that make it look easy but in reality it took time, education and an substantial investment into peoples lives and equipment! It’s an industry that has high overhead and your photography albums and portraits are the only thing after the cake is eaten and the day is done to remember! It’s often the only place you get a good adult family image or that final image of a grandparent!
Thank you Jenn so much for your insights.
Great tips! Sometimes you can do a great amount of good with FEWER things. Cutting back a little bit and letting the “simple” things take care of the wedding for you is a great idea!
When I first started to plan my wedding I was going nuts trying to think of every little thing. I am so glad that I found this site and your comment. I think I will go back and try to really cut back to what I feel is necessary.