Have an Unique, Cheap Wedding
Weddings are getting more expensive and, for many couples, saving money is one of the most important aspects of their wedding. There are ways to save money and still have a wedding that you are proud of. Follow these steps to plan your own unique, cheap wedding.
Contents
Steps
- Create a budget to stick to. Sit with your fiancée and talk about what ideas you want to have, want, and do not need. It is important to know how much you can afford before you start planning. Cheap and unique weddings are doable; but you have to be aware of the numbers.
- Look for a free ceremony venue you can use. Some public parks are available without charge if you are not inviting many guests and you reserve well ahead of time. If you are a member of a church, chances are you can use it for the ceremony at no cost. Save money by having the ceremony and reception at the same place.
- Find a reception venue that also caters. You will save money in the end, and chances are you were going to have to hire a caterer anyway. Perhaps a relative has a place you can use for your guests, a large yard with a tent. It's all about planning and possibilities.
- Serve guests appetizers instead of a sit-down dinner. Most caterers are willing to work within your budget, even if that means avoiding the 3-course meal and focusing more on hors d'oeuvres. Also, if you are having an open bar, serve just beer and wine instead of hard liquor.
- Plan your wedding cake the same way: check for local schools with cooking programs or relatives or friends who work at bakeries.
- Use fake flowers to save on floral costs. The florist is one of the most expensive characteristics of a wedding and there are many faux-flower alternatives. Also, consider non-floral centerpieces, like using candles that you can buy in bulk or placing board games in the middle of all the tables as both a centerpiece and a conversation starter.
- Do it yourself. Sometimes the cheapest and unique way to do something for your wedding is to make it yourself. Do the calligraphy for your own place cards, make your own favors, and create your own ceremony programs.
- Ask friends and family for help. You probably already know someone who can take the photos the day of the wedding or someone who can help you design invitations. Most of your loved ones would love to help you create your unique wedding, so all you have to do is ask.
- Put an iPod on shuffle and rent some speakers instead of hiring a DJ. The play list will be what you want instead of concerns of paying someone else.
- Go vintage. Look for your wedding dress at a second-hand shop. Shop around Etsy for bridesmaid gifts. You can find old vases to use for centerpieces at thrift stores, as well as other fun and unique elements to include on your big day.
Wedding Budget Chart
Doc:Wedding Budget Chart
Tips
- Read wedding blogs to get ideas.
Warnings
- Don't compare your wedding to other weddings you have been to. Some people want expensive, fancy weddings, but it is okay that you want a unique, cheap wedding. Everyone has different priorities of their wedding ideas.
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