Weddings automatically spell out lavish parties, designer outfits, jewellery and receptions, all of which can cost the earth! Sometimes, you need to save in one area so that you can splash out in another. Here are some easy tips that make it possible to for you to save money but still have your dream wedding, without compromising on style.
1. Fixing a budget is the first step towards a well thought-out wedding plan. Decide on the amount that you intend to spend and allow for 25% additional expenses for all the minor unplanned items.
2. Instead of buying an expensive wedding lengha, try out new upcoming designers for a made to order outfit. They will not only put their time and effort into making you look beautiful but their price will be reasonable and the satisfaction guaranteed! The same could be done with your card designer!
3. Better still; wear your mother’s, grandmother’s, sister’s or even your mother-in-law’s wedding outfit. This way you not only save money but will also make a fashion statement. It is a trend that is fast picking up amongst brides.
4. Think about opening a wedding bank account. The tradition of placing the entire burden of expenses on the bride’s family is a thing of the past. Most couples now pay a proportion with parents also contributing to the cost. If you put all the money into one account it willl be much easier to see keep track of your expenses and see exactly how much is left.
5. Keep accurate records of what you have ordered, the total price, the deposit given and the balance that is due. Stay organized!
6. Be flexible about your plans – and save money. Wedding on a popular day like Saturday costs more. If you can consider a Friday wedding, for instance, you will probably be quoted less fro the reception and also get your first choice.
7. Remember the early bride gets the deal! Start shopping around as soon as possible. Book your photographer, venue, caterer and entertainer well in advance. Get them to agree in writing that if they put up their prices before the wedding, you will still pay the agreed price.
8. Only book a catering company or after sampling their food or in case of a photographer or florist, after you have seen their folio. And make sure you hear potential entertainers performing, either live or on tape.
9. Get a written confirmation from all you suppliers as well as the photographers, florists, caterers and car hire company. Give a preferred shot list to your photographer and confirm final numbers to the caterers. This helps in avoiding confusion and the risk of being overcharged.
10. Select flowers that are in season as they are inexpensive – try a mix of textures , fresh flowers mixed with dry and silk ones , not only does this look unusual and different , this combination also works out economical esp in the summer months as fresh flowers are wither away too soon !!
11. Invitations should always be addressed by pen, preferably in black ink.
12. This is the time to call up all family and friends to pitch in for help with the preparations. Enlist the help of that talented friend of yours for design and creative ideas.
13. Serve sparkling wine for the cocktail reception and save the finest champagne for the toasts only.
14. Make extravagant food such as fine seafood as an hors d’oeuvres rather than serving it as a main course.
15. For guests under the age of twelve, ask the caterer to make up simple and inexpensive meals. The kids will enjoy it more and you pay less.
16. Instead of an open bar, have your bartender make special festive drinks named after the bride and groom. You’ll save a lot on the overall drinks bill.
17. Bring along an emergency kit with a needle and thread, safety pins, hairpins, hairsprays, nail polish and extra pantyhose to deal with all unforeseen crisis that seem to arise at such moments.
18. If your first night is being spent at a hotel, ask the manager if they will include extras, such as complimentary champagne, chocolates and fresh fruits that they offer for newly wedded couples.
19. Plan your honeymoon well in advance. Make all arrangements and reservations as soon as possible to avail of the best offer at the best rates.
20. A slightly out of season honeymoon, just away from peak times, will get you bargains and bonus packages.
21. Let everyone know its your honeymoon. Your hotel might offer you a room upgrade!!
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