I am getting married in Febuary and am so lost and overwelmed because Im doing everything myself. I have the church and know where I want the reception. I just have no idea on how to pull this off without going into debt. I am supposed to have a budget but I have to pay as I go because I am currently in school and the only income in the household is from my fiance. Please, I need help. Any ideas on how I can save money or get this done with out spending a lot would be very appreciated.
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on Apr 9, 2007, 1:48 PM)
expertplanner
BRIDAL CONSULTANT
Post #2 of 4
(4509 views)
Re: [Donna216] Planning a wedding on a budget
[In reply to]
You are right in that you should have some type of budget. Even if it is a number that you absolutely don't want to go over. Taking the 'pay as you go' route often causes a huge amount of stress for everyone that gets involved in the wedding planning process.
How far away is your wedding date? Do you have at least a year to plan? How many guests are you planning on inviting? Is this reception place in the same city that you live in? The answers to these questions will help us better understand your situation so we can provide you with some cost saving ideas.
Donna216
Post #3 of 4
(4494 views)
Re: [expertplanner] Planning a wedding on a budget
[In reply to]
Wedding Date is February 16 2008, and have about 75 people coming to the wedding. The ceremony will be at St.Augustine Church in Cassleberry, Florida and reception is about 15 minutes away at Cranes Roost lake in uptown Altamonte Springs, Florida.
expertplanner
BRIDAL CONSULTANT
Post #4 of 4
(4489 views)
Re: [Donna216] Planning a wedding on a budget
[In reply to]
Okay. The first place you want to look at cutting costs is your guest list. Can it be trimmed? Has everyone on your guest list been to your house within the last six months for dinner? A get together? A lot of times guests get invited because we feel obligated to do so. It is important to invite people who are really important to you. Plus, the more guests you invite, the more the wedding costs.
Check out the possibility of having your wedding earlier in the day, preferably late morning. Doing this might result in a reduced rate at the recetion site. If the site provides catering, a simple poultry dish, and sides such as rice pilaf and green beans are generally affordable options.
Flowers can be a large expense too. Look into smaller bouquets for your bridesmaids, opting for a few stems and some lovely heather or ivy as accents rather than larger arrangements. Use non-floral centerpieces that you can create with some of your friends incorporating vases, silk petals, base mirrors, and lots, lots of votive candles. Candles are a great inexpensive way to create atmosphere and ambiance on any budget.
Order your cake from the local grocery bakery instead of a stand alone bakery that specializes in wedding cakes.
As for music, check your local musicians' association. Many times they have members that have just joined and eager to work. That could mean a good savings in the music department. Just be sure you get a playlist before your event. You don't want anything played that might be offensive.
These are just some suggestions and I hope they help.
Planning a wedding on a budget
