Wedding Budget: Smart Ways to Save

Don't Do Saturday
Even though Saturday is the most popular day to walk down the aisle, consider doing a Friday or Sunday bash. Since locations and vendors are looking to fill their calendars rather than sit empty, they often give discounted rates.

 

Fewer Guests = Less Money
It's obvious that the fewer people you have means the less money you will have to spend, but the hard part is narrowing down the list. The best place to start is with the kids. You don't have to invite your friends' five kids, just invite the parents -- they'll understand. Another good place to cut are the "plus-one guest." Be clear on the invitation that you're inviting just one person. Your friends will respect a limited guest list.

Choose Where You Want to Splurge
If you love rich chocolate and dream of an exquisite, towering cake -- go for it! But realize that you may have to cut back in other areas, such as making your own invitations or wearing your mom's dress.
 
Get Creative with Grocery-Store Bouquets
Save money on flowers by doing it yourself. With a few snips of stems and basic flower arranging skills, transform grocery-store bouquets into beautiful arrangements. Then personalize it with a creative container that matches your decor, like this bold bucket.

Limit the Booze
Alcohol can make your reception bill sky rocket! Avoid the big bucks by having an open bar for just the cocktail hour then have a cash bar for the rest of the reception. Another way to save is to serve only beer and wine, letting your guest pay for the hard alcohol drinks. Make sure to clarify with your reception location the alcohol prices and be sure to ask lots of questions -- is it per keg? Per drink?

Serve a Signature Drink
Another way to save when it comes to alcohol is by serving a signature drink. This easy idea will add a pop of personality and keep dollars down when it comes to your bill.

Make Your Own Invitations
Wedding stationery can also take a huge chunk out of your budget, so why not make it yourself? Gather a group of friends and create an assembly-line workflow. You'll have customized, handmade invitations and programs in no time.  Check out our wedding planner for templates at:

http://www.forblackweddings.com/Planner_2.html