Tag: centerpieces

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Budget Blooms: Real ways to stretch your floral budget to the most

Flower

Gorgeous flower arrangements are an inevitable part of a picture-perfect wedding. Flowers have the amazing ability to transform and uplift the entire wedding scene, making even a drab location picturesque. However, flowers are expensive and your floral budget can quickly get out-of-hand, unless you plan well.

Fortunately, it is possible to stay within budget and still have fabulous floral décor at your wedding. Here are our insider tips to help you stretch  your floral budget and get great value for the money you invest.

1.Highlight bigger blooms

Larger blooms are not only more dramatic, they cover more space. So, you will need fewer large blooms to complete floral arrangements, and they will create a strong impact. Discuss with your florist to find out which blooms are in season at the time of your wedding. Design your floral décor with the largest of these, and there should be significant cuts in overall cost. A larger flower like an orchid may be pricier than roses. However, with the larger size you will need fewer of them to complete the arrangement. Sunflowers, orchids and hydrangeas are other good choices for maximum impact and economical prices.

2.Keep your centerpieces simple

Although your centrepieces are important, finding budget-friendly choices that pack a punch isn’t too difficult. Expensive exotic flower installations can eat into your budget. However, a similar impact can be achieved with cheaper choices. Focus on the colours in the design. Your florist can suggest economical choices that will tie with your theme. You can also use few exotic flowers and complete the rest of the arrangement with cheaper seasonal fare.

3.Budget-friendly choices work for designs that are seen from far

While your centerpieces will be viewed up-close, other parts of your floral décor won’t receive too much focus. For instance, the flowers on the altar or lining the edges of the aisle or hall will not be scrutinized from too close. Hence, use cheaper flowers in these arrangements to save money. Filler flowers like carnations are saturated with color and hence the best choice for pops of color. However, these are cheaper than roses. Seen from afar, your guests won’t be able to make out the difference. As long as the effect is similar, it won’t matter whether you used carnations or roses in the actual arrangement.

4.Opt for seasonal and local blooms

This is often the cheapest way to get fantastic blooms. Since local flowers are easily available, transportation costs are minimum. Also, since local produce is fresh, it will look amazing. Seasonal blooms are another good way to keep your costs down. If you must have off-season varieties in your floral décor, prepare to spend extra as they have to be shipped from elsewhere. Off-season flowers may not hold up well, in the weather conditions at the time of your wedding. So, avoid the risk and splurge on local and season flowers instead.

5.Don’t splurge on the bridesmaids bouquets

The more bridesmaids you have, the more money you will have to spend on their bouquets. The prices can quickly add up, and its value isn’t really justified. Instead, invest in a spectacular bridal bouquet. Then plan your bridesmaids bouquets as miniature versions that aren’t too costly. Your florist can whip up alternatives that match yours. Once again, focus on the colors and design instead of the actual flowers in the bouquet.

6.Find alternatives to corsages

Corsages are pretty pricey, since there is a lot of effort involved in creating them. Unless you are very particular about having them, find an alternative to serve the purpose. Use single flowers without fillers, and they will cost  less. Your Wedding blog suggests several alternative corsage options from feathers to starfish and even buttons. We think this is a great way to tie it to the theme of your wedding, while deviating from the traditional floral corsage idea with an unexpected twist. Isn’t it a great way to get noticed? Check it out and get inspired.

7.Add extra greenery

Have you ever realized that the greens in your bouquet are rather inexpensive when compared to the blooms? Make the most of this factor, by choosing more greens and adding flowers as accents in your bouquet. Ivory or ferns cost far less, but fill space. They also add beautiful texture to floral bouquets, enhancing its appeal. So, use lush greenery in your bouquet and centerpieces. You will need fewer blooms, but have floral arrangements of noticeable size and impact. So, choose from foliage , herbs and ferns to add a lush effect to your bouquets for much lesser.

8.Add details like ribbons or lace

Simple additions to your flower bouquet, like a ribbon or lace will help it appear larger. It is also a romantic addition that will enhance the appeal of your bouquets. The same applies to centerpieces as well. Satin ribbons add saturated pops of color that will enhance the beauty of your flower arrangements. Lace adds a romantic note. So, these are classy choices that will help you create a better looking flower arrangement sans the cost.

9.Add a unique touch to your décor with non-floral centerpieces

Expensive flower arrangements with exotic blooms are always impressive. Nevertheless, this isn’t the only way to create impact. You can achieve the same effect by adding few cheaper and unusual items. You can find elements that tie to your chosen theme. The best part is that such items can also be reused in your home décor later. Take a look at this article on the Bridal Guide for some interesting suggestions along these lines. From Bird cages for garden weddings and rustic themes to pin wheels for outdoor weddings, there are plenty of amusing ideas to borrow and use. 

10.Choose airy flowers that add bulk to arrangements

Similar to adding foliage to increase the bulk of your floral arrangement, add bunches of light and airy blooms to enhance the volume of the entire arrangement without costing much. Wispy strands of baby breath act as great fillers for bouquets and centerpieces. A single stem will occupy significantly more space than a single flower. Hence, this is one option to explore. Your florist can suggest more such options that are pretty and light and create the effect you desire.

11.Reuse and re-purpose to get the most out of your wedding flowers

In most cases, you will have your wedding ceremony at one location and the wedding reception in another location. Although it may be the same venue, your reception hall is likely different from the one for the wedding ceremony. In such cases, the common practice is to set up separate floral arrangements at either spot. However, the smarter option is to reuse the same flowers at the second location. Arrange to transfer the flowers from the first location to the second, and you will only have to pay the transfer cost. You will have to employ help to do this quickly and discretely after the ceremony. Plan this movement carefully before the wedding day, so it progresses smoothly on the day.

12.Go for non-floral bouquet options

Many substitutes for real flowers look just as good, or perhaps even better. Spend less by replacing your bridal bouquet and that of your bridesmaids with non-floral options. From fabric flowers to paper flowers, brooches, lace and even feathers, explore the variety of options available. There are endless options as long as you are flexible. The best part is that you will also have an unforgettable accessory that your guests are bound to remember. So, let your creative juices flow and come up with a non-floral bouquet option that ties to your wedding theme and is unique in every way. For more inspiration and ideas, take a look at this fantastic post on the Martha Stewart website.

13.DIY your wedding bouquets by going for what is cheap and available on the day

If you have time and are crafty, this is the best way to stretch your wedding bouquet budget. Visit the local market the day before your wedding, and find cheap flowers that fit your color scheme. You could even enlist the help of your bridesmaids or friends who are particularly talented in this area. However, remember that this is not an option if you are rather particular about what you want. On the other hand, if you are flexible and ready to go with what is available, this could be the cheapest way to find flowers for your bridal and bridesmaids bouquet at a bargain price. With a little creativity, you can easily find ideas for unique and beautiful bouquets with what is readily available.

14.Add seasonal bounty to the mix

Another idea for a non-floral bouquet is to add seasonal bounty like fruits, foliage and natural décor elements to your centerpieces. When you pair colorful fruits like limes, berries, apples or peaches, you can easily obtain the pop of color you choose. These also add texture and unexpected beauty to an arrangement. The best part is that such seasonal produce is often inexpensive and will bring down your flower budget significantly. Take a look at this post on the Martha Stewart website for some stunning centerpiece arrangements bursting with fruits and even vegetables.

15.Start with the grocery store bouquet

If you must save on your flower budget, look no further than the regular flower bouquets available at grocery stores. These give you the right base to begin your arrangements and designs with. Rearrange the blooms, add a few extra embellishments like brooches, twine or lace for a touch of glamour and you are ready to go. Remember however, that this setup requires extra time. So, don’t embark on this route unless you have the time and skills to get creative and DIY the day before your wedding.

16.Mix and match by cost of flowers

Flexibility is key to achieving the desired impact while staying within budget. If you want your floral arrangements to look lush and expensive, mix and match expensive and inexpensive flowers in your arrangements. One way is to go with alternating arrangements of flowers that fit each category. The other option is to use few large blooms of the expensive flower of your choice, and alternate it with inexpensive flowers as the fillers. Flowers like baby’s breath and daisies are perfect for this option.

Weddings are very expensive, and every penny that you save goes towards your future. So, it is wise to consider your options and make budget cuts wherever possible. Even if flowers are a priority in your wedding plans, you can achieve startling results without breaking the bank. The above suggestions should help you with this. Have we missed anything? If you have any more ideas, don’t forget to share it with us in the comments section below. After all, it is all just a matter of thinking outside the box and finding choices that do not compromise on your main priorities.

For all your bridal needs and advice, our Best for Bride team of experts are here to help. Whether you want a stunning wedding dress, accessories, alterations or wedding day services, visit our website to find the best solutions to bring your wedding day ideas to life.

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Creating Unforgettable Moments: 15 Secrets to Ensure Your Wedding Guests Are Enchanted!

We have all attended weddings that score average or perhaps slightly better than average? However, how many times have we been truly impressed by the way a wedding was planned and executed?

It isn’t too difficult to plan a wedding that scores an average or slightly-above-average rating. However, you can do much better. When you host a wedding, take care of the details and your wedding will be elevated to an outstanding level. And the best part is, not only will your guests “love” your wedding, they will never forget it. So, what are these factors to keep in mind? Let’s take a look, shall we?

Welcome bags for guests from out-of-town

There is no rule that this is a necessary part of your wedding. However it can be quite impressive when the couple thoughtfully gift welcome bags to their out-of-town guests. Have these placed in their rooms, and your guests will be impressed by your thoughtful gesture. Fill it with snacks for them to munch on. You can also add souvenirs like sunglasses or key chains, perhaps even a magazine or crossword puzzle. Finally, we think you should use this opportunity to also introduce the theme of your wedding to your guests in a subtle way. Use the theme colors or motifs to give them a sneak peek into what they can expect at your wedding. More ideas on creating perfect welcome bags here, on the Knot. 

An impressive entryway

First impressions last forever. Let your wedding occupy a permanent spot in your guests memories, through a stellar entryway that will not go unnoticed. Create statement style décor in your entryway, with theme pieces that are striking and majestic. Plan the design well, and keep it uncluttered so it is neat and noticeable. Meaningful additions like family or couple photos would also make it more impressive. Similarly, make sure your reception hall is well decked and picture-perfect long before the guests arrive. This sets the ambiance for the event. Choosing the right lighting, décor elements and seating arrangements will make or break your wedding scene.

Create wedding programs that multitask

The wedding program is stationery that is rarely put to much use. Make yours different with some creativity. Let your wedding program be suitable for something else as well. If your wedding is outdoors in summer, print the program on a fan that your guests can use during the day. Or, print it on a bag that doubles up as confetti holder. Small, but unusual details like these go a long way in making a wedding rather memorable.

Have a short and sweet ceremony

Long ceremonies can really bore and tire out your guests. With nothing to do or contribute, it can get rather dreadful when the ceremony drags on and on. So, skip all that is unnecessary. Keep your ceremony short and crisp. Discuss this factor with your wedding officiant, so it is handled efficiently. Take your time for the vows and walk down the aisle in full style. Your guests want to see you get married and capture that memory perfectly. But try to keep the rest of the ceremony to the point, and nobody will complain. Guests will appreciate it when they have some free time to walk around and mingle, rather than staying put in one place for a function that drags on.

Well-organized transportation plans

Guests will appreciate it a lot when you arrange transportation for them. This is even more important if your wedding venue is remote. Arrange a shuttle service, and your guests will be relieved that they needn’t hire cabs for their onward and return journey. If your ceremony and reception are held at different venues, arrange transportation between these two points. This will allow your guests to relax and ride in comfort, while they park at the first location. However, ensure that the arrangement is well-organized. Clearly communicate the plans to your guests. Have it on your invitation and wedding website. Provide proper directions and timelines, so there is no confusion. Also try to make the ride enjoyable by booking comfortable vehicles and include soothing music for the ride.

Plan interesting pre-wedding activities

There will always be few wedding guests who aren’t familiar with most of the people at your wedding. They may feel rather bored with nobody to mingle with. Make sure these people do not feel left out or lonely, by planning a pre-wedding activity where they can meet and mingle with others. This could be a cocktail hour before the main event, when they get to hang out with the others in a casual environment. People tend to naturally get talking at such events and this will help them get to know the others. You can also host simple games, through which the guests introduce themselves to the others. For more ideas on how to get your guests to mingle and mix, visit this post on the Wedding Wire website. 

Don’t leave them hungry

Guests just hate it when they are famished by the time food arrives. Neither is it fun when few items on the menu suit certain guests, due to dietary or other restrictions. Make sure your caterers deliver on time, and the food service is efficient. Also include a wide range of items on your menu so there is something to please every taste. While planning your menu, think of diverse options that suit vegetarians, vegans, people with allergies and food restrictions due to health conditions. When there is a variety of food to choose from, your guests will be excited to enjoy it and look forward to the entire experience.

Indulge them in an open bar

There is no denying that an open bar is rather expensive. Nonetheless, it is one of the things guests look forward to most eagerly. So, don’t disappoint in this area, if you want your wedding to be remembered fondly. If the cost bothers you, keep the selection limited to just beer, few signature cocktail drinks and local wines. Just remember that this is definitely better than the guests having to pay for their drink or there being no alcohol at all. For budget-friendly bar options, visit this post on the Brides website. 

Gift them favors that they will actually use

Most wedding favors are simply tossed or stashed away in a corner of their cupboards and forgotten forever. Don’t let your money go to waste. Pick favors that your guests will actually appreciate and use. The more unique they are, the better you can guarantee this factor. You will want to customize your wedding favors. Nonetheless, try to have the customization done is such a way that your guests won’t mind using it despite the printed impression on it. Edible favors are always a good idea. However, if you want to gift something that lasts longer, consider items like key chains, sun glasses, beer mugs, shot glasses, candle stands or décor items.

Don’t have the speakers blasting at full volume

There will be elderly guests at your wedding, and they won’t be keen on loud music at your wedding. So, be considerate and set your speakers to a moderate volume. Also, plan your seating arrangement in such a way that your older guests are away from the speakers and sources of music. It would also be a good idea to have an alternate lounging area, where they can sit and relax while the youngsters dance to the beat. This will allow them to mingle with others their age and have a good time of their own.

Invite them to participate

Rather than sit as mute spectators throughout the event, guests love it when they get to participate in the wedding. Invite your guests to request songs, and have your DJ play some of them. We are sure your guests will appreciate the opportunity to dance to tunes they love, than just to those you love. You can even involve them in the wedding ceremony. This post on the Intimate Weddings blog suggests a variety of interesting ideas like a musical procession, a prayer circle or including them in the unity candle ceremony. Find something interesting like this, and you will easily create fond memories for your guests. 

Add an unexpected twist

Just imagine how impressed your guests would be if a group of onlookers would out-of-the-blue break into dance for a certain song. You could even impress them by taking dancing lessons and owning the dance floor with a spectacular number for your first dance. Or your bridal party can perform a choreographed dance when it is least expected! These items are never forgotten. So, add it to your wedding celebration. This will wow your guests and will be the talk of town. I wouldn’t be surprised if your guests think this is the most unforgettable event from your wedding, in the years to come.

Serve some nibbles after the party

Dancing to the beat for a long time can make your guests hungry. Serve your guests tiny snacks and watch their moods be uplifted in no time. Have these snacks served late at the reception, and it will instantly energize everyone. Midnight snacks like cookies, milk shooters, pop corn and even tacos will be appreciated by your guests. Distribute it around and your guests will be re-energized to continue on the dance floor again.

Appreciate your guests presence

You are truly blessed when most of who you invite attend your wedding. Some of them may have traveled from afar to witness your wedlock. Others may have put aside several plans to make it to your special day. Openly express your gratitude for their presence at your wedding. They will definitely appreciate the gesture. Make it a point to at least greet and spend few minutes with each of your wedding guests. This will make them feel that their efforts were worthwhile. Also remember that nobody likes a couple that’s too engrossed in themselves. Your wedding day is special, however it is also about those who take the pains to be a part of it.

Make an exciting exit

Memorable exits add the perfect finishing touch to a well-planned wedding day. So, plan yours well. Use showstopper elements like balloons, candles or even bursting wedding sparklers for a perfect exit from the venue. Consider bubbles or even flower petals instead of the traditional confetti for non-messy and sustainable options. Make it matter by also choosing a vehicle that makes a statement. Ride off into the night on a bicycle, hire a horse and carriage or even go for a fully decorated vintage car to complete the day in full style.

Don’t be one of those couples who are so busy that you forget about the other people who are in your wedding. Focus on the guest experience; we are sure your guests will love your wedding. After all, all your efforts pay off when your guests openly commend you on the preparations you did and how impressive your wedding was. So, think from their perspective when planning your wedding. Keep it personal and you can immortalize your wedding in the memories of those who attend it.

At Best for Bride, we understand the challenges of planning and organizing a wedding. Although it is difficult, we have the right solutions for your most challenging tasks. Whether you are on the search of the perfect bridal gown, need dresses for your bridesmaids or have to pick out the perfect wedding cake and favors, we have the solutions for all your needs. Visit our website on this link to bring your wedding vision to life.

We help modern brides find the perfect wedding dress and everything else they need to bring their wedding ideas alive, as the one-stop, hot and happening bridal destination. Visit Best for Bride today to make your wedding day dreams come true!

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Top tips for styling your wedding

Your wedding is a reflection of your personality and style. When the various elements at your wedding come together, it will showcase who you are as a couple. So, it is not just about the details, it is also how these details work together.

Most brides base their wedding on a theme. Although the same theme may have been done a thousand times before, it can be executed completely differently at yours. Nonetheless, making it unique depends on how you plan your details. This is where our tips for styling your wedding will help you.

Here are some of our insider tips to help you style your wedding, to make it uniquely yours!

1.Discuss and note down what you want

Before you begin collecting pretty pictures on Pinterest or browsing the internet for trending themes, take a minute. It is easy to be swayed by what looks good and interesting. However, it may not be the right one for you. Instead, identify what you want first and proceed from there. Sit down with your fiance and discuss what you want your wedding to look and feel like.

It is helpful to jot down not just elements and factors that should be at your wedding, but also words that describe the effect your wedding should create. This will help you when you have to shortlist or choose between ideas that are right for your wedding plans.

2.Collect ideas for all the different elements of your day

Once you know what you want, it is easier to collect ideas that work. This is a good time to start looking at Pinterest and all those pretty details in the various websites you come across. Cover all the different elements from wedding dresses, accessories and food to transportation, décor and stationery. It is a good idea to create different boards on sites like Pinterest and Loverly to segregate your collections into relevant groups.

You may come across new and more interesting ideas every single day. So, this will be an ongoing process. Nonetheless, don’t forget to revisit the data you collect, and subject them to closer scrutiny. Then eliminate those that do not hold your attention, as they did originally. This will help you narrow down your preferences and you will soon identify a pattern emerging.

3.Be open to options

Not all things that match your vision will be available easily. Don’t be disappointed if you find that the items in your mind aren’t all available. To avoid this situation, always make a Plan B. When you plan your wedding imagery, do it with plenty of alternative options. This will improve your chances of finding things you need to complete the effect. At times, it may also be helpful for you to reconsider your options and choose items that are easier on the pocket.

4.Don’t hesitate to get creative

There are no specific rules that govern your choices. You are in charge and have absolute freedom to mix and match, eliminate or combine ideas till you find what you love. Look at the various images and ideas you have and find out what it is that you like most about each of them. If you always thought you wanted pastels at your wedding, but find your collected images to have jewel tones, use this as a cue.

Images will help you recognize what actually appeals to your taste. Use the information you collect to identify patterns, prints, colors and style elements to dictate your wedding style. It is also possible that you will find more than one emerging trend. What do you do in this case? Simply mix and match to create your unique style statement. So, if it is boho and chic, use elements of both types to style your wedding.

5.Get help from the pros

Pulling off the numerous details of a wedding is no easy feat. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself overwhelmed and reeling under pressure. Hire professional help if you find yourself reaching nowhere with your ideas. If not for the entire scene, you can still spend money on just the details that are important.

Wedding planners usually have the talent to find vendors who will gel with you and bring your vision to life. However you can also ask the vendors you’ve already booked to suggest others who they have worked with and are capable of getting the overall picture right. When you discuss your ideas with a potential vendor, see if they accept your vision. Work only with those who believe your idea is feasible, don’t dismiss your ideas or suggest too many changes to plan.

6.Think out of the box

One of the biggest problems with wedding planning these days, is that couples stick to the trends entirely. When they borrow and execute ideas as such, the novelty is lost. Avoid this mistake. While you should be inspired by ideas you find, try to add to it with your own inputs. Get creative and break the mold.

If an idea captures your interest, think of how you can further enhance it. Whether it is adding an unusual accessory to your wedding dress or giving an unexpected twist to the menu, exercise your creative juices. Small but quirky ideas can be remarkably memorable, and all that it takes to shift your wedding experience to a whole other level. Keep it personal, and the custom changes you make will have stronger impact.

7.Sometimes less is more

Whether it is color, texture, prints or patterns, use liberal doses at your wedding. However, make sure it doesn’t overwhelm. When there are too many details, it is likely that the important ones will simply drown in the chaos. So, aim to create just one or two focal points, and let the rest of your wedding arrangements draw on this as inspiration. When working with bright colors, keep the effects contained and use no more than four colors in your wedding to avoid a cluttered look. Remember that it is important to prioritize the factors that mean most to you, and focus on these in your wedding arrangements. The rest should simply be to complement the main things and not compete with it.

8.Remember ideas aren’t always expensive

Executing an unusual or interesting idea at your wedding doesn’t mean it should eat into your budget. With the right approach and planning, you can snag the deal for a good bargain. Handmade details or DIY ideas can be inexpensive when done right.

Set aside time to visit thrift stores, search online and in likely places to find items for less. If you are crafty, use your skills to personalize your décor, wedding favors or add custom touches to your outfit. Shop and think with an open mind. If you are flexible with your choices, it will be easy to find alternative and unusual options for your settings. Not only will these pack a punch, you can also impress your guests with your eye for detail and resourcefulness.

9.Score extra points with unusual items in your décor

 

Every time we come across an unexpected element in the wedding décor, it stays in our memories. These small items usually end up being the signature of your wedding day scenery. Your guests identify them with the occasion, and they become a strong part of their memories. So, do some brainstorming to identify unusual items that will enhance the décor at your wedding. Take a look at this article on the Woman getting married site for some unique wedding centerpiece ideas. The best part is that most of them are easy to DIY, and give your creativity a big boost.

10.Don’t get caught up in other people’s expectations

Whether it is your mother, your wedding planner or maid of honor, their role is to help you realize your wedding vision. For the full-list of who these likely wedding hijackers are, take a look at this article on the Knot. Don’t succumb to pressure and give-in to what they say, unless you absolutely agree.

Some brides are too timid to step up and say something when others try to take over their wedding. Don’t do this or you will see your ideas going out of the window. Remember that it is your wedding, and the day should reflect your likes and preferences. Keep it that way. The easiest option for you to make this happen is to identify your must-haves earlier on. Welcome opinions that contribute to your vision, but don’t commit to anything that you aren’t sure of. You can always say, “I’ll think of it, thanks,” and get off without committing to the suggestion till you think it through.

11.Prepare well and prepare right

Although you may have a zillion brilliant ideas, it is useless unless you execute them with perfection. Preparation is key to nail perfect results. Use visual cues to recognize whether your ideas will translate well in person. Set up a journal or diary to record these details. If you are good at sketching, try to recreate the picture in your mind through sketches. Or if you prefer to work with existing pictures, spend time comparing the colors and effects. This will help you set it all up easier, when the time is right.

For decorations, make note of the general rules to obey to create a visual setting that will impress. Gather all your props, raw materials and décor essentials to set up samples and ensure they look as good as you expect them to. Take pictures of the arrangements you make and click pictures. They will serve as reference points for when you have to do the real thing and are pressed for time.

12.Think of how it will photograph

After the day, all the details you painstakingly create will live through your photographs. So, it is essential that you plan a photogenic wedding, so the memories are sharp and impressive. When you think of your wedding style and especially the colors, consider this aspect. Think of how certain color combinations will translate in photos. Unless it can be captured as beautifully as it is in person, your theme may not look great in pictures.

Even the food you serve at the wedding, your bouquet and jewelry should look beautiful when displayed. Play with contrasts and textures wisely to create an attractive setting to increase the visual appeal of your wedding scene. Discuss these factors with your photographer prior to the wedding. He can guide you on changes that will improve the overall look of your pictures.

13.Create your own style

We always advise brides to have an inspiration board when planning their wedding. However, like I mentioned earlier, this shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all of your wedding. This is only to motivate you to come up with your unique ideas. Pictures that appeal to your taste will definitely give you a good idea of what you would like to have at your wedding. Once you recognize a pattern and shortlist elements that will be in your wedding, you should go about creating and settling into your own style.

Try to create a cohesive look and feel, and fashion your unique wedding statement. Whether you DIY or hire professionals to do the various details, make sure that it finally reflects who you are as a couple and your personal choices. This will help you avoid a cookie-cutter wedding.

Best for Bride has been helping brides realize their wedding dreams for over a decade now. From bridal dresses to dresses for the bridal party, accessories, wedding favors and even cakes, we have everything you need to plan the perfect wedding day. Visit our website by clicking this link and discover how we can help you have the perfect wedding day.

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Chic Celebrations on a Budget: 10 Genius Ways to Cut Costs Without Compromising Your Reception!

church wedding

Your wedding reception will take over a big part of your wedding budget. With many things to rent for the occasion, from the décor to the tableware and seating, it will all quickly add up and cost a lot. While there is no way you can escape from setting aside money for your reception, there are some smart ways in which you can have a fantastic reception without breaking the bank. This is what we will look at today.

Read on for 10 tips on how to save as much as is possible on your reception cost.

1.Choose one venue for both the ceremony and reception

church wedding

One of the best ways to reduce your overall reception expense, is to choose a single venue for both the wedding ceremony and reception. There are many benefits of choosing this option and they include the following

  • You have more flexibility in timing, as you do not have to account for the transportation time between the two venues
  • There is no need for additional transport arrangements to help guests travel to the reception venue, from the wedding venue
  • Guests will be happier if everything is staged at a single venue, as the likelihood for delays and waiting time are less
  • This is obviously a cheaper option. Even when the ceremony venue is a church, you will have to spend more in terms of a donation or ceremony fees.

2.Choose items that do double-duty

By this, we mean you can make your money work more if your décor, seating or anything else can work in more than one way. For example, if your wedding ceremony and reception are at the same venue, consider having the flower arrangements done in such a way that it can be reused as reception centerpieces. That way, all it takes is a few extra minutes to move the arrangement to the reception venue and set it up. Although it may involve a certain labor cost, it will be much cheaper than having the entire reception venue decorated from scratch using fresh décor items. You can also choose wedding favors that act as place cards. Similarly, here is a suggestion we found on the Knot web page, that sounds sensible. Consider using simple glasses in a universal design to serve all your drinks, instead of having to rent various types of glasses for the different drinks that will be served at the reception. The same idea is useful for every wedding aspect you can consider, including your wedding dress. A two-in-one wedding dress that can give you two different looks, is a brilliant idea for a wedding. The Mori Lee 5316 with a detachable tulle skirt is one such dress.

3.Look for all-inclusive packages

all inclusive

Unless you have the talent, time and practice to handle most of the details by yourself, rather than depend on independent vendors for each of the décor essentials, DIY weddings can be very expensive. The cheaper alternative is to choose an all-inclusive package, and customize it to meet your specific needs without spending too much money. The other benefit of choosing an all-inclusive package is that you needn’t worry about arranging all the aspects and have them all come together at time. The vendor-in-charge usually takes care of it, and you only need to follow up. Without too many options at hand, it is also a relief for brides who are easily overwhelmed with too many choices. Check with your venue for whether they offer package deals, or ask your vendors for the additional tasks they can handle. This way you will not have to follow up or work with too many people, and this makes the process streamlined and easier.

4.DIY or outsource it to a known contact

Although we said DIY may be expensive, it shouldn’t always be so. This may in fact, be the cheapest route available to you, if you are organized, have the time for it and are confident in your abilities. If you have done things previously on a scale similar to that of your wedding, or you have the time and resources to bring it all together perfectly, DIY can help you cut the costs to a great extent. You can try your hand at anything from creating the wedding centerpieces, to assembling the party favors and even baking the cake. Or if you have a trusted friend or relative who is a wedding vendor, this may be the route to consider. As an associate you personally know, you are more likely to get a considerable discount on their services, and this can ease the financial cost greatly.

5.Be on the lookout for discounts and offers

sale

If you have a long engagement before getting married, you have time to attend wedding fairs and shows. Here, you can find interesting deals and good discounts for your reception. You will easily find several vendors offering their services and also discounts to stay ahead of the competition. So, if you find one that you like, this is the time to snag it. Wedding exhibitions will also have stalls with wedding décor accessories and other items, and they may be cheaper and unique compared to what you find outside. Also, don’t overlook items that cost nothing, but are a valuable add to your wedding. Free wedding fonts, for example, can help you personalize everything at your wedding, from coasters and place cards, to menu and sign boards for little to no cost. Additionally, we suggest that you sign up for bridal magazines and join the mailing list for newsletters and updates at popular bridal shops and vendors. This way, you will immediately know of any discounts and offers that come up. When you go shopping for your wedding, also check out whether there are any benefits of booking or buying more from a single place. For example, your wedding baker may give you a discount if you ask them to do edible favors as well. It is likely that you will also be able to save more on service and delivery charges when you go with a single vendor for more than just one service. So, explore the options and ask around, you may just be lucky to find a deal that will work.

6.Stay on top of your expenses

Wedding finances can be tricky, unless you are in full control. Before you go shopping, it is best if you create a budget spreadsheet and divide it into the amounts you have put aside for each aspect. This way, you will know what amount you can afford to spend on a certain factor. One way you can stay in control, is to note it down and add it into your accounts as and when you incur an expense. Unless you consistently do this, you can easily lose track of all the small expenses you have already been involved in. This can all add up to a shocking extra in the end. If you however, keep your budget updated and have a clear idea of how much has been spent already and what is remaining, you can make sure you do not overstep your budget and spend beyond control. Also, if you get a good deal on certain items, you can adjust the profit into another aspect, and splurge on it instead.

7.Choose less risky wedding reception venues

garden venue

Planning an outdoor garden reception in the summer? Don’t ever rule out the likelihood of rain. In case Mother Nature decides to shower her blessings with a drizzle on the day, you will have to risk your guests getting wet. The sensible alternative in such a case, would be to have an alternative venue where you can move your reception to, in the likelihood of rain. But, this would mean paying money for all the extra arrangements and that would simply cost you more. If you want to avoid such risks, settle for a low-risk reception venue. An indoor venue that has no risks associated with it, would allow you to breathe easy and be done with the funds you have allocated for this. You can also think of getting yourself insured, so that you are covered if any unforeseen circumstances that cost money, arise out of the blue.

8.Find cheaper but working options for your décor essentials

You can find cheaper options for your wedding decorations in many ways, if you keep your mind open. For outdoor weddings, barn weddings and rustic styles, bistro lights and twinkling fairy lights are beautiful but inexpensive décor items. The romantic effect they create is really worth the insignificant price you pay on them. Similarly, if you want a shabby chic wedding, consider switching out table cloths for newspapers under a glass table top. If you are unhappy with the chairs you have at your reception, but cannot afford hiring new ones, consider getting them covered with chair covers. This will not cost too much, but you can instantly add more life to your wedding venue with this single change. It is also sensible to consider a venue that comes with seating and interesting décor already. Restaurants are such examples. Since they are already set up for service, they will have all the necessary items for the food service and good décor too. So, you can save on planning and preparing the venue specially for your wedding, when you book such venues.

9.Keep the timing fixed and stay organized

Venues and service staff charge by the hour. So, it is necessary to stick to the timeline. You may get a better deal if you cut short your booking hours. Simple steps like cutting short your cocktail hour to 45 minutes, and similarly polishing off few minutes from various aspects can save you precious time. This will translate into a reduced bill. Also, your guests will be relieved that there is minimum waiting around, as long as everything progresses smoothly. However, make sure that you stick to the stipulated time and the reasonable time frame you have set for each event. All in the wedding party should be aware of what time slot is allotted to which activity, and not overstep the time limit for each of them. Also discuss the working hours with your wedding vendors in advance. Ask for how much their overtime charges are, rather than run into a long bill after you employ them for much longer than initially agreed. Wind up early in the evening, and you can head home or off on your honeymoon much earlier.

10.Take the paper-free route and think outside the box for everything else

sheet cake

There are many things at a wedding that you can do without, and still have a great wedding. Wedding programs are one such item. You can choose to skip these, as they use up a lot of paper, and also cost for the printing. They aren’t really necessary, and are usually tossed at the end of the day. For your guest’s reference, you can use a single chalkboard or signboard display at the welcome, and this will do the job just as well. To really cut your budget, be open to options like using a sheet cake at your reception, and substituting the reception dinner with a tea-time affair or brunch. Although this may be one of the most economical options around, it may not be for everyone. But definitely do consider it.

Can you think of more ways to save money on the wedding reception? If so, do let us know in the comments below.

For more tips and wedding planning advice, visit us at Best for Bride—your one stop bridal destination. Don’t forget to check out our online bridal store, where you can find everything from stylish wedding dresses to dresses for the entire wedding party, and also chic evening gowns and beautiful prom dresses. Apart from this, we also have a range of wedding-related services like wedding cakes, invitations, favors, photography, flower arrangements, décor and more. Check out our website here, to find out more about how we can complete your wedding perfectly.