The words “budget” and “inexpensive” often do not give us the impression of glamour or style, and are words that can easily make any Bride feel helpless. Practicing money management while planning your wedding can be a challenge all it’s own, along with all the other obstacles and tasks you must face before your big day. However, there are plenty of ways you can create the wedding day of your dreams without breaking your budget.
Practically all brides today have some kind of budget they are planning to stick to, whether it’s just barely enough or flexible, there are plenty of expenses you can easily avoid. Saving money is not just about cutting down on spending, it’s about making room for options for the things you really care about. For example, choosing an inexpensive floral option for your center pieces could give you that little bit extra you’ll need for that dress you’re dying to have. Sticking to your wedding budget is all about making smart choices; by taking the time to consider all of our options, we can have the chic, stylish, and glamorous wedding we’ve always dreamed of, without any guilt or regrets.
When it comes to your Bridesmaids’ dresses, keep all of your options open. Although your dress may be from a designer, you can easily go for a stylish (and affordable) option for your maids. Consider browsing online department stores for an abundance of options. A popular trend today is letting your Bridesmaids all wear different dresses, with various styles and cuts, with varying shades of specific color scheme. This lets them choose a flattering shape and color, while still maintaining the overall palette for your wedding. Ellos dresses, for example, offer plenty of fun, flirty, and formal options that will easily fit into your budget. If your maids are purchasing their own, it’s provides them with an affordable option, and a practical dress they can wear long after your big day.
As for the floral details, it is no secret that flowers alone can account for a large portion of your overall budget. Considering you will need bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces and other decor, you can cut costs considerably by considering just a few key things. First, find out what flowers grown locally. Second, choose based on what is in season for your wedding date. Any flowers or greenery that are flown in from exotic countries will be significantly more expensive. There are plenty of affordable alternatives to popular favorites that could save you hundreds, and be just as beautiful.
Often, saving money is as simple as getting creative and doing your research. Evaluate all of your options and you’d be surprised just how much room you have left in your budget, whether to cut costs or just to splurge on the honeymoon.
The average cost of a wedding gown is in the thousands, which can be a scary figure for most brides-to-be. Wedding costs can accumulate quickly, and for couples on a budget, the wedding gown can be a big contributing factor. There are, however, plenty of options available for quality, stylish, and affordable dresses, no matter what your budget might be. Being a savvy shopper can save you big, and with the right tips, you don’t have to sacrifice your wedding day vision to stick to your budget. Utilizing all your resources is essential, and the wedding market has an abundance of options available. Every style, and price, can easily be found… if you’re looking in the right places. 
When it comes to wedding costs, there are many different traditions in terms of who pays for what. Obviously modern couples often do not adhere to these types of expectations, most even pay for their ceremonies on their own, without help from their families. 
- Expensive Postage for invitations: if your invitations are anything besides standard, expect to pay more than you were expecting per envelope. This can mean: oddly sized, bulky, heavy, multi-layered invitations or unique packaging. It may not seem like a lot, but if they end up running $2 in stamps per invite, it can add up when you have 200 guests.
- Obligatory Tips: There is a difference between a “service charge” and gratuity. You should be aware that the service charge is mandatory, and is the compensation for the catering hall for hiring servers. This is not in place of the tip, so you may be surprised with an extra fee at the end of the night, up to 20% of the overall costs.
Making Memories: When you choose your photographer, be sure they are shooting digitally. Preview your pictures and share via a computer, and have your pictures burned to a CD. If you prefer film, be sure they recycle materials and don’t use so many chemicals in the development process.
