How to Save Money on Your Wedding
One of the factors that people find most intimidating when it comes to planning a wedding is the cost that is usually involved in the event. Thanks to movies and television, many people seem to think that all weddings have to be huge and lavish affairs that end up putting you in debt until long after your children have graduated from college. The truth is that your wedding doesn't have to cripple you with debt. Here are some ways to cut down on the cost of your wedding:
1. Limit the guest list. While it might be tempting to invite everyone you've ever met, the smaller your guest list, the cheaper your wedding will be because the scale will be much smaller! Consider having an intimate wedding and reception and then, after the honeymoon, throw a big party for all of the people you wanted to invite to the wedding but couldn't.
2. Instead of renting a hall, think about having your wedding at home. Having your wedding at your home (or at the home of someone you love) will cut down considerably on the cost of your celebration.
3. Instead of having a fancy meal and having to hire a caterer, think about having simpler food or a pot luck-styled reception. Receptions are more for interacting and having fun than eating anyway—simple food platters are often more than ample for keeping your friends and relatives fed and happy!
4. Go organic whenever possible. Instead of hiring a professional florist for the wedding bouquet and other flowers, enlist your friends' gardens and grow your flowers yourself! A package of seeds is far less expensive than the bill from a professional florist!
5. Instead of hiring a professional photographer, ask one of your friends to take the pictures or hire a college student who is hoping to build his or her portfolio!
These are just five simple ways to cut down on the cost of your wedding. If you put your mind to it, you can probably come up with at least five or ten more!