Dream wedding with short budget - Where to start

Dream wedding with short budget - Where to start (by Ashley) ,Assuming you want a traditional wedding, the first decisions to be made include: the date, your attendants, and where the reception will be held.  Of course, the date might be your most important decision.

Traditionally, couples tie the knot on a Saturday.  If you really want to save some cash, consider having your ceremony on a Thursday or Friday.  How about having a Sunday service on a holiday weekend?  You’ll find that there are many more open dates on these days and you’ll ultimately realize more savings by booking on these less traditional time frames.  Many reception locations will offer a discount for an off day. If they don t offer it, ask for it.

Also, you may want to consider an early marriage and an early reception.  An 11:00 marriage with a reception immediately following can realize great savings as most guests will have already had lunch before your ceremony and the reception will most likely be over by dinner, so all you’ll have to provide is some light finger foods to tide over those rumbling tummies!

Additional savings may be realized by having your wedding in the months of November through April. These months are less busy for most wedding related services and locations. Again, ask for a discount for being off-season.

You need to decide how many attendants you will have so you can bestow the honor on them early enough! They can save the date and help you plan!  Traditionally, the bridesmaids are responsible for their own wedding attire, but the bride usually has the final say on what they wear.  Be mindful of your attendants’ financial situation and don’t choose that $500 satin chiffon number.  Remember, you’re trying to throw a wedding on a budget.  Let them save some cash as well! 

Where your reception will be held is another huge decision that has to be made early on in the wedding planning stage.  If you want to opt for a traditional reception hall, you’ll have to book early to be sure you can get the venue of your choice.  If you or someone in your family is the member of a benevolent association (The Elks, The Moose, The American Legion), consider these as viable options.  They often give discounts to members and you will probably have access to a huge area for your wedding reception as opposed to Aunt Emily’s backyard!  Just remember to book early!

You can also look to find a free place to hold your reception such as a friend’s home, a church’s reception hall, or even the local fire department’s reception hall!  You could look into a local park, art gallery, and even your own home.

You’ll need to start on a guest list as soon as possible and begin thinking about invitations.

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