How to Save Money and Still Enjoy a Dazzling Wedding

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A bride shouldn't have to blush at the mounting costs associated with her wedding. She's dreamed of this special day ever since she was a child, and wants the moment to be memorable and a smashing success! But how can she pull off a dazzling wedding without everyone involved going broke? By saving money following these helpful tips, that's how!

But first, a few rules:

1. Even though costs are unfortunately a large part of planning for the wedding, don't let money worries monopolize your time and ruin the fun and excitement of making wedding plans.
2. Prioritize and be willing to compromise. If having an expensive wedding gown or large reception is important to you, be willing to compromise in other areas – such as decorations or type of entertainment.
3. Saving money doesn't mean you have to be cheap. Allow yourself to indulge in some luxuries without feeling guilty about it.
4. Don't be too proud to request group discounts or talk down price quotes.
5. Don't allow professionals to pressure you into making quick decisions involving costs. Take time to explore other services that might provide more for less.

First Things First... the Newspaper Announcement

Wedding announcements are usually sent to newspapers in the following towns; the bride's, the groom's, her parents, his parents, her grandparents, and her old hometown.

When possible, submit your wedding announcement and picture to newspapers that don't charge for publication.

If your area's newspaper charges by the word, practice writing your announcement using as few words as possible. If the charge is a flat fee, get your money's worth. Write an announcement filled with as many details as possible that will become a lovely wedding book memento.

How to Save on the Wedding Announcement

If cutting wedding costs is a concern, don't order announcements from a bridal salon or bridal shop. They charge top dollar. Instead, shop around at stationary stores for the best price possible.

Ordering a simple wedding announcement design will cost less than more elaborate styles. Plain white paper with black print is still a very classy choice. Know before placing the order exactly how many announcements you need so you don't over-order.

You can save up to 95% on announcement costs by purchasing high-quality paper by the pound at a stationary store and printing your own announcements using an elegant font on your computer. One great paper source is Paper Direct.

The All-Important Wedding Gown

Needless to say, one of the highlights of any wedding is the wedding gown. It will be the central focus of guests as the wedding march is played and the bride makes her entrance. It will also be the focus of the wedding budget.

Begin looking for the wedding gown as soon as possible for best style and price selection. But don't order the gown before the wedding date has been set. Ordering a gown that proves out-of-season once the date has been set will not only be a frustration – but incur a cancellation and reorder expense, as well.

Avoid shopping for your wedding gown at big, fancy salons. These type shops do not offer the best prices, and the salespersons who work on commission tend to be more aggressive. In addition, prices for alterations are also more expensive.

Look through bridal magazines and catalogs to get ideas on styles of wedding gowns you like. Some wedding gown ads list the stores and chains where the gown can be found, and provide toll-free telephone numbers, as well.

Bridal catalogs that offer good values include Laura Ashley (1-800-223-6917), Bridal Originals (1-800-876-GOWN), and Discount Bridal Service (1-800-874-8794).

Tip: When shopping for a gown, consider discontinued styles. They are usually offered at a great savings – sometimes hundreds of dollars.

Wedding Entertainment

Wedding Entertainment selection is another area where costs can be cut without being cheap. After considering whether you prefer live musical performers or a DJ, decide what type music you prefer to be played.

Check out available options, and compare package deals that each offer. Try to get more for your money. Compare prices per hour versus flat fees. Also find out what fees are per additional hour if the reception lasts longer than planned.

If using a band, specify how many breaks they will be allowed to take during the reception. This time should not be included in flat hour rates for playing. Draw up a contract and get signatures.

The contract should include hours band will play, break times, type of music to be played, band member's names, type of attire to be worn (tuxedo, suit, other). Try and get the band to agree to a clause that if band members change before the wedding, the contract is void, with no monetary compensation.

One last word. Hiring a DJ and selecting song preferences can still provide great entertainment, and cost much less than a live band.

Cutting Wedding Decoration Costs

Decorations are a big part of any celebration, and a wedding is no exception. By thoughtfully considering wedding decoration purchases, money can be saved to apply to other wedding costs.

First consider whether or not you want a theme wedding. If so, it will be your cue as to where to shop for the things you need. Purchase decorations yourself, making a careful selection, and turn decorating into a fun get-together with friends.

Remember:

1. Regular balloons cost less than helium-filled ones.
2. Latex balloons tied in bunches are every bit as festive as the shiny, Mylar foil type, and less expensive.
3. Renting a helium tank and buying your own balloon is much less expensive than ordering pre-filled helium balloons.

One great online source for balloons is BalloonIdeas.com. Besides good prices on a wide assortment of every type balloon imaginable, clearance pages offer even greater savings. They also have a balloon drop kit to make the bride and groom’s entrance more festive and dramatic.

Besides balloons:

1. Twisted crepe paper draped in loops is still a popular wedding decoration and one of the least expensive.
2. Stringing already owned clear, white Christmas lights in a dimly lit reception hall will add sparkle to a festive occasion without costing a cent.
3. Instead of ordering expensive table centerpieces, you can create an eye-catching wedding-tribute using silver framed pictures. One display could be of the bride and groom; as children, together on dates, and while making wedding preparations. Another display could be of wedding day photos of relatives.
4. Creating mobiles of hearts, sparkles, stars, and doves to hang from doorways, corners, and above tables creates lovely, low-cost wedding decorations.
5. Instead of renting a wedding reception trellis, borrow one from a friend, relative, or neighbor.

In addition, ordering your cake through a baker instead of a caterer could save a lot of money. Before you order, ask if the cake will be delivered to the reception location for free, or if there is a charge.

If you have a talented relative who is a great cook, nearly $200 can be saved by having a homemade cake instead of buying one from a bakery.

All in all, nearly every aspect of the wedding can be made less of an expense by prudent shopping. And your wedding can still be dazzling!