How to Plan a Wedding on a Small Budget
Inexpensive Ways to Have a Special Wedding Ceremony and Reception
Weddings are a special time where a bride and groom decide to invite their closest family and friends to celebrate one of the happiest days of their lives. Having a special day and a great reception don't have to cost too much. Here are some tips to have a great wedding at a great price.
Deals on Wedding Dresses
Internet auction site eBay is well-known for people buying and selling collectibles. There is also a huge market for used and new wedding gowns. Found the right gown in a high-priced formal-wear boutique? Check eBay with the gown's model number and chances are you'll find it for cheaper.
Another idea is to look for a bridesmaid dress that is available in white or ivory. Bridesmaids' gowns are often significantly cheaper, but can function just as well for a somewhat casual wedding.
Need an even cheaper option? Just check out regular department stores and discount stores for general dresses. Not all white dresses are wedding dresses. Even a simple, plain dress can look special with the right accessories and pretty hair and make-up.
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Sites
There are many options for inexpensive wedding and reception venues. Public parks, specifically gardens, can be a great place for a spring, summer, or fall wedding. However, the bride and groom will have to deal with the public watching their most special moments. Public parks also will force the couple to handle most things themselves, such as getting permits, renting and setting up chairs, and more.
Check with the town for some public spaces such as pavilions and community centers. These can often be rented for a nominal fee, and can be decorated to rival any fancier location. Community groups such as the VFW or American Legion might also have facilities available for rent.
Having a wedding at a less traditional time can cost less. This can include afternoons, Fridays or Sundays, or even if the off-season. Many reception halls have cheaper packages for these less-popular times. However, guests might not be that happy with a Friday evening wedding since they will need to take time off work. This can be especially difficult for anyone traveling a long distance to attend.
Setting the Wedding Atmosphere
Fresh cut flowers as centerpieces for every table can add up in cost. One inexpensive yet equally beautiful option is to have potted plants as centerpieces. This idea is also good for people who don't like the thought of killing plants for decoration, or those who want the centerpieces to live on. Flowering potted plants can be matched to the color theme of the wedding, and cost a lot less since there is no cost to arrange the flowers. Potted plants are available in a variety of prices.
Flowers and plants aren't the only options for attractive centerpieces. The couple can design centerpieces from any number of supplies available at craft stores. These can include votive candles, stones, glass beads, mirrors, etc.
Favors are another wedding decision that doesn't have to cost a lot of money. Most wedding guests have no use for many favors, and they agree that edible favors are preferable. Look for candy in the grocery store and put it into individual cellophane bags for favors. Shop clearance candy after major holidays (Halloween, Valentine's Day, etc) to get great deals.
Budget Reception Tips
An enjoyable and formal wedding needn't always include a sit-down served meal. Many reception venues offer a buffet package. Lots of money can be saved by having guests serve themselves. Buffets also have the benefit of allowing guests to choose from several options, or sample a little bit of everything.
Even less expensive is having a cocktails and hors d'oeuvres reception. Guests don't need a full meal to have a great time. It's the quality of the food that counts, not the quantity.
A potluck reception is a great idea for a casual and small reception. If every guest brings a dish, the couple doesn't need to spend much on food themselves.
These tips allow couples to have a great wedding ceremony and reception without having to spend too much money. And don't forget, the most important part of a wedding is watching the couple celebrate one of the happiest days of their lives. Remember that and try not to stress about the cost of the big day.
Bride and Groom
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