It’s a scary fact that most wedding expenses end up costing double what the budget originally allowed. This means that its likely that the figure you have predetermined to spend on your big day, will end up being only half of what it will cost you in the end. However, there are plenty of sensible ways you can cut down on expenses without risking the sacrifice of your perfect planning.
1) Unless you are already firmly set on a date for your wedding, then try to avoid the peak ‘wedding season’. During this time all of the venues, such as reception halls, will charge almost double what they do in the off seasons. Considering that the Reception costs alone account for 50% of your overall budget, this is an aspect that is worth cutting down on when you can.
2) When it comes to your guest list, keep the number of guests in attendance as low as possible, restricting it to those who you know personally. Most venues will charge per person, and when multiplying the food, drink, favors etc. it will all add up in your expenses.
3) Flowers account for 8% of your overall budget, but you can cut down by: creating the arrangements yourself, picking the flower that is currently in season (it will always be cheaper), and by avoiding purchasing them around Mother’s Day, Valentines Day, and other holidays when flowers are in high demand.
4) Cutting back on certain things in the reception, such as offering a smaller meal, or buying the wine and liquor to be served at the bar yourself, you can save a great deal. Reception hall’s will charge you much more to provide beverages for you.
5) Since the wedding attire is 10% of the total wedding expenses, it is worth taking the time to shop around (even if you found the perfect dress!) and checking out department sales, or even renting a tuxedo or gown. If you are having your gown made, find less expensive fabrics that resemble the luxurious, expensive ones. After all, you will wear this dress only once!
6) Another big chuck of your wedding expenses will be dedicated to the location, so if you want to fly everyone out to your exotic wedding abroad, you will be spending more than you have to. Instead, you can choose a local spot, like a park, or a friend’s garden, which are considerably cheaper, not to mention more unique and meaningful.
7) Cut back on, if not eliminate all together, the deserts at the reception. After people have their fill of food and drink, they often don’t have room for desert anyway.
8 ) 12% of most budgets will cover photo and video documentation of your big day. Since this is one of the most important aspects of your wedding, you will want to save where you can but not sacrifice the memories you want saved. A popular, unique and creative alternative to hiring a professional is to offer disposable cameras to your guests. After the wedding, collect the cameras and develop all the pictures. Now you have wedding pictures from every possible angle at no cost to you.
