This article was last updated Tuesday, November 15, 2011
This is the biggest day you will, and you want it to be memorable - high quality even - but the average wedding (not including the cost of the engagement ring and honeymoon) is almost $30, 000! Not within your budget? Don't fret. Believe it or even not, with just a little planning and some ingenuity, you can bring your wedding costs way down. Follow these nine tips for a classy, however affordable wedding.
Marry off-season. Reception costs as well as other rentals will be cheaper in case you get hitched during the off-season. For far greater discount, consider getting married in the center of the week.
Utilize your imagination. With a little ingenuity, you'll be surprised what you will find to integrate into your wedding dé cor. Check your nearby dollar and thrift stores often to get the best deals.
Get a little help through your friends. When planning a budget wedding, your very best connections are your friends. You'll be surprised how much talent you'll find when you just ask. Your well-connected friends might be able to help you along with caterers, musicians, photography enthusiasts, film artists and seamstresses among others.
Take it outdoors. Many cities have parks with gazebos or botanical gardens that you can use. Just call your own city hall to see what areas may be available for your ceremony. Bonus: You'll also have the ability to use the stunning outdoor surroundings because natural dé cor - saving you more money upon decorations.
Lease and borrow, but don't buy. Whenever you can forego purchasing items, you'll save lots of money. Make a list of what you need and ask your own if they can assist. Also, call several rental places to price another items that you have to pick. You'd be surprised how much they vary within the prices that they charge.
Purchase a gown alternative. Check out your local division store. You might look for a nice formal dress that will accomplish the same goal for a lot less than what you'd pay within a bridal salon. Verify consignment and thrift stores too. You might be able to find that ideal vintage gown.
Select ethnic cuisine. One way to save money is to go for food with an ethnic flair instead of the traditional chicken, beef or fish. Mexican, Chinese, Italian, and Hawaiian foods are all tasty and will satisfy your visitors, plus they are less expensive than dishes normally served. Build your theme surrounding the menu. Bonus: When you can use your own caterer, you'll save even more money.
Hire students. Second-year college students in photography and also film programs may be just the ticket to saving big money! Choosing a student is going to be less expensive, and their work will most likely be exceptional. Be sure you ask to see their portfolio in the past, though, and discuss thoroughly what you are looking for in your photos and video.
Buy affordable themed invitations. Discount invitations can make a big difference in your wedding budget. Online companies can be a great resource for very reasonable yet classy invitations, and invitations under a dollar aren't uncommon
.