It’s no secret that weddings cost a fortune. In fact, with the average nuptials costing an American couple around $26,000, it is most definitely something that needs to be planned for meticulously. Of course, most couples would say firmly that every penny is worth it. But the last thing you want is to be entering married life with a pocket full of debt – not exactly the most relaxing start to your legal partnership! You might just want to get married as soon as possible and to have a big glitzy wedding, but stop and think about the implications first. If you can save money on your wedding whilst still making it the fabulous affair you always dreamed it would be, then why not consider getting thrifty?
Rose Gold Mr & Mrs Cake Topper
The dress
We all know how much of a big deal the dress can be. In fact, in can sometimes seem as though the whole wedding rides on getting the dress right. It is vital that you feel confident on your wedding day, and wearing the right outfit always helps to give you a little boost. But brand new dresses certainly don’t come cheap – even more so if you decide to go for a designer option. Of course, the dress needs to be good quality, and good quality often means a hefty price tag too. But for an item of clothing that you are only going to wear on one day of your life, ask yourself if it is really worth it? One way to meet in the middle when it comes to style and price is by opting for a second-hand dress. This option may horrify you at first but remember – second-hand doesn’t always mean ‘used’. And even if it does, consider the fact that your dress has a bit of history to it and tells a story. If you have found a stunning second-hand dress but you are dubious about its condition, find some wedding gowns dry cleaning in your area. You never know it, it may come up as good as new.
The food and drink
The meal or ‘wedding breakfast’ as it is usually known tends to be quite a spectacle and certainly not the cheapest part of your big day. You may feel the pressure to deliver something really amazing to your guests, but consider what you actually need to include. How many times have you been to a wedding before and the majority of the main meals have just been left? With catering being as expensive as it is, the last thing you want is a ton of food wastage. If, in your experience, people tend to fill up on h’orderves , simply serve a huge selection of those and ‘light bites’ instead. As far as drinks go, opt out of a full free bar and instead simply stick to a choice of a couple of beers, prosecco and perhaps a signature cocktail.
The venue
The venue is without a doubt the most expensive part of your wedding day, often making up to 45% of the total expenditure. Obviously it can pretty much make or break your whole day, but some simple changes can mean you save a lot of money on it. Firstly, don’t get married on a Saturday! Prices soar on the most popular day of the week and you will struggle to find an available slot too. Choose a Sunday or, if it’s possible for you and your guests, a weekday. Also consider having your ceremony and your reception at the same place. This cuts travel costs between the two and you may even be able to haggle a discount for doing so as well.
Check out what I'm loving right now on Amazon!
