The key to affordable wedding planning is adjusting your expectations to fit your financial reality.
1. Many couples save up to pay for their own wedding and sidestep all the trouble of whom paid for what.
2. Create a realistic budget and stick to it. Figure that the reception will eat up about 50 percent. Music, photography and flowers each take up about 10 percent. The remaining 20 percent goes to everything else-- dress, tuxedo, invitations, hotel, limo and so on.
3. Cut back creatively. Look for discounts. Revise your guest list starting with the children. Use less-expensive invitations. Brides and grooms have the option of renting their wedding attire as do their attendants.
4. Save for your wedding expenses during the engagement. Be prepared to place down payments with most of your vendors early on to reserve their services. Tipping will be expected.
5. While trying to conserve your resources, it is best to remember there are rules you should not bend. Don't have a cash bar. If the expense is a burden, consider limiting your offering to beer and wine.
|
