It’s no great secret that weddings can carry a hefty price tag. When considering tying the knot with the person you love and before going out and spending a large chunk of yours or your family’s savings, there are things you might want to consider.
According to a recent article that appeared on the Host Madison website, the average wedding in 2016 cost an estimated $35,329, That’s an enormous amount of money to spend on anything that isn’t a long term investment. For newlyweds who are just starting out, it would be far wiser to put such vast amounts of cash to work toward making their financial goals, paying off student debt or saving for the down payment on a home.
Two professors of Emory University found in a study conducted in 2014 that brides who spent more than $20,000 on a wedding nearly twice as likely to have their marriages end in divorce than those who opted to spend only between $5,000 and $10,000.
No one says that you have to forego having a wedding and just go before a judge at the county courthouse. You also don’t need to hold your reception at the local roadside diner. There are plenty of ways for couples to save money on their nuptials that can make them extra special, even while staying on a budget.
Consider Alternative Days & Seasons
Weddings are most often held in the early summer during the month of June with most couples choosing Saturday as the most popular day of the week. Those dates for religious and reception venues as well as services that cater to weddings are most likely to be booked well in advance. In addition, you will pay the going market rate which can be substantially more than if you chose a different day of the week and at a different time of year. Choosing to get married on a Friday evening or even on a Sunday after regular church services, for example can be one way to save money and effort. Additionally, late summer, and early fall weddings can take advantage of weather that is still good and the colorful display that nature has to offer during the season.
If you want to save money on reception costs, why not take advantage of brunch – which costs far less than dinner? Wedding guests are also much less likely to drink to excess before 11:00 a.m. than they might be after 8 p.m.
Saving on Décor and Location
Booking the wedding venue can be one of the largest wedding costs. If you have family or friends who have a beautiful garden or backyard space, ask if they might be interested in allowing you to use their place in lieu of a gift. More often than not the answer will be ‘yes’. You may also consider a state or local park or beach. Permit costs are low and often there are pavilions that can be reserved for just a few hundred dollars. Natural locations can also help you save money you might have spent on greenery to decorate a church or reception hall. With a few artful touches of drapery, you can create a fantastic atmosphere that is both natural and memorable.
Wedding Attire on a Budget
Rather than spend the average price of $1,500 or more on a wedding gown, consider some other alternatives to save you some cash. Vintage dresses can be had for far less money at a local vintage or consignment shop. You can also go online and find the perfect dress on Etsy or eBay. With a few alterations you have not only saved some money, but will have something truly unique.
Grooms can also take advantage of vintage wear or opt for a simple slacks and vest combination.
Receptions for Less
If you are planning a reception, traditional catering can also run up a big tab. There are several options from having a pot luck where family members bring something special to share with everyone or hiring a food truck or pastries such as pies or even omelettes or crepes made on the spot for your guests. There are so many creative options out there, and you may even find a few more reception and food ideas on websites such as Pinterest.
With a little bit of creativity and a little bit of extra work you can save huge amounts of money on your wedding. No matter what your wedding budget is having an experienced wedding planner like Geri Sims of Atlanta Wedding Décor can help you save money on your wedding and make it special.
Geri has more than 20 years of experience in creating one-of-a-kind events for every type of budget. With the use of dramatic fabric draping, uplighting and props, Geri can make it extra special. Contact Geri today to discuss your wedding plans.
