Budgeting for an Affordable Wedding!

In this tough economy, everyone is trying to save a little money, even when it comes to weddings!  We can give you a few hints you probably dont know about and maybe some you do.  But either way, hopefully you can save a little money and still have a beautiful wedding! And I hope you are not afraid to do a little work yourself!

Beginning with your venue, there are some places that actually will offer it for free or donation. Examples are churches, your friends or familys farm, etc. Always ask for your friends help in locating a venue. That is what they are there for!  Another money saver with a venue is having your wedding on a weekday. Having it on a weekday at some venues will save you half the price!  If your friends want to come to your wedding, they won't mind what day it is!

Invitations and save the date "kits" can be bought at office supply stores such as Staples or Office Depot. You can pick out the design and print your own at home.  Another money saver is Party City and they do a remarkable job!  There are also several websites you can design your own and order from such as Vista Print. Design it and just order a minimum amount just in case you are not pleased with the finished product.

The flowers you can save money on by calling the florist before your wedding and asking what flowers will they be throwing out about the time of your wedding and see if they will give you a discount. Most of them will. If you dont mind using artificial flowers, you can definitly save a lot of money there! And, you can keep them forever!

Decorations you can buy at hobby lobby, Michaels, even the Dollar Store! Just use your imagination!
Order your monogramed deco online, your guests will never know where it all came from!

Musicians, let your friends do the pickin and grinnin!  Or put the music you want on CD and have one of your friends operate the sound system.

Photographers, Videographers, DJ's are all professionals and are not something to be skimped on when it comes to saving money.  And not just because I am one of these!  Your photographs, video of your wedding day and the way your DJ controls every part of your reception will be an everlasting memory of everything  you have worked so hard and long to accomplish for your very special day!

Finally, THE DRESS! and of course the bridesmaid dresses!  Watch for sales!  I know I don't have to tell you that!  Also, there are several consignment shops in the area that sell wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses, both slightly used and new.  Look at craigslist, but be careful while doing so and ALWAYS take more than one person with you to go look at the dress or dresses! Or meet them in a populated area to just look at it to see if you are interested. Also, stores like JCPenneys and Macys sells wedding dresses as well and you may find one oneline. Keep the alterations charge in mind, that is always expensive! 

Happy Hunting!  Hope this helps.  Be Blessed!