Having a Beautiful Wedding on a Budget

When Kate Middleton wed Prince William, the affair cost an astonishing $60 million. Luckily, most of us common folk can skip the $35 million in security guards. And we can probably do without the $80,000 cake, $600,000 reception, and $800,000 in flowers. Most of us spend less on our entire weddings than Pippa did on her bridesmaid’s gown. You can – and will – have a beautiful wedding on a limited budget. Here’s how:

Host two receptions. How is having two receptions less expensive than one! It is when you have a small, intimate reception for close families and friends, and then a larger, less expensive party for everyone. This second party can be given at your home, or that of a friend, and you can make your own foods or even have a potluck. Decorations are much cheaper, and you can serve fun cupcakes instead of paying for a custom wedding cake – again! At your “real” reception, you can go all out but still save because you are accommodating much fewer people.

Off the rack. Instead of a custom wedding dress, choose one off the rack and simply go to a seamstress to get it fitted. There are so many styles that are ready-to-wear that you really can find your dream dress, and it will cost you significantly less. Look online for auctions or retailers, and don’t skip the higher end thrift stores. Most wedding dresses are, after all, only worn once, and you can get a great deal!

Set on Saturday? Getting married on Friday or Sunday can drop your bill significantly. Opting for an odd day – like Thursday – can cut your venue costs by as much as half.

DIY. You can make favors (having a candy bar with small boxes, for instance, does triple duty as favors, decorations, and dessert), centerpieces, decorations, and even your bouquets and boutonnieres on your own. You can print invitations on your home computer – or even be “eco-conscious” and email them. Yes, it’s all right to do this.

Today’s brides and grooms are not bound by the same level of tradition which was prevalent even a generation ago. We have much more freedom to make our weddings creative and unique – and inexpensive. Make it your day.