No one will know you cut corners!
by Ashley Sollars
- Bar Bill Blues
If you let everyone drink at will for the entire duration of your reception you will probably end up with a bunch of very drunk attendants and a huge bar bill! Opt for beer and wine only, drinks provided during dinner or a cash bar. Also, some venues will allow you to set up your own bar. Hire a bartender and talk with them about what liquors, mixers, beers and wines you should purchase for your guests. Check with local distributors for discounts on bulk ordering.
- Fresh Flowers vs. Silk Flowers vs.
Candles
If you opt for fresh flowers, it
will be beautiful but they are expensive and will die in a day or so. Silk
flowers are generally costly too but they don’t kick the bucket – ever – so you
can pop them up on eBay or Craig’s List and get a minimal return. Candles are
your cheapest option but can’t be reused. Mixing candles and flowers can be
really beautiful and give your reception depth.
- Forget the Favors
An experienced caterer once told me that no one ever appreciates the favors on the table. Opt for something small like Hershey’s Kisses for a little bit of color if a favor is a must.
- Off Season
It may rule out an outdoor wedding but if you need to cut costs marrying in the winter or early spring will help. Watch out: people will try to combine your Christmas/Wedding gifts. Hey, at least no one will be sick of all the weddings they have to go to at that time of year.
- Their Loss Is Your Gain
Second-hand stores aren’t just for the used. Many bridal consignment shops will buy out fading pricey bridal shops and offer dresses at a fraction of the price. Used wedding dresses have been cleaned and really were only worn once! They also offer jewelry, accessories, and veils for a lot less than boutiques!
- Time of Day = Food
If you are really strapped, host a morning wedding with a brunch reception or an afternoon wedding with cake and punch to follow. Specify on invitation, though. You don’t want any grumbley tummies.
- Photographer Finds
Find a photographer that gives you the CD of photos. You can use these files to make your own wedding book and have multiple photos printed at Sam’s Club.
- Home Ec Revisited
Ring-bearers pillows and flower girl baskets are so expensive. Find a tiny basket and spray paint it to the color of your choice. Garnish with a beautiful ribbon. Also, put your Home Ec skills to work and hand-sew a small pillow. Superglue the same ribbon to the pillow.
- Go Back to School
Take advantage of your local college students – they need the practice. Musicians, photographers and graphic designers all need the practice.
- You Paid Enough for Them; Make Them
Multitask!
Place vases on your head table filled with water. Bridesmaids’ bouquets will dress up the table on their own. For added drama, line the front with inexpensive votives.
- Cents and Sense
Some venues will waive the cost of the reception room if you spend a certain amount in food. For the same amount of money, you could have a nicer meal. It just makes sense!
- Guests Don’t Care What Cake They Get; They Just Want Cake
Have your cake maker make a small wedding cake and a sheet cake to accompany to serve for guests.
- 2 – 4 – 1
Host your reception and ceremony in the same place. It will eliminate the lull between the two and will save you on limo and decorations for two venues.
- Kids' Cuisine
Many caterers offer a Kid's Menu that is often discounted in price; plus kids would rather eat chicken fingers anyway.
- Runaway Bride & Groom
Go away on your honeymoon and get married on the beach. Save on all the hassle and expenses!
