We all want the perfect wedding, but just how realistic are we being during our planning? Here are five tips to help you save money when planning your perfect day.
1) The Right Ring
An expensive wedding ring is,
traditionally, essential. Well, it isn't. There's absolutely no reason whatsoever that you should be buying a ring that costs three months salary from a jewelry store! The trick to saving money (but not lacking quality) is to shop around. Try looking for a vintage, second-hand ring in vintage boutiques; some of these are absolutely beautiful, and the quality of them is far greater than anything you'd find in a high street store for a higher price. If you live in London then it's well worth heading to Hatton Garden, one of the world's most famous jewelry districts; you'll be sure to find the perfect wedding ring for a fraction of high street prices!
2) Avoid Cliches
It's become something of a tradition that the bride shows up in a horse and cart, or a vintage sports car, or a limosuine; that the honeymoon has to be somewhere exotic; that the dress has to be high-end, designer. The truth is, it really doesn't have to be like this. Not only are these 'traditions' extremely expensive, they've also become rather tacky and tasteless; so to save money why not think of something more personal and original? You're guests will appreciate it more, and so will you too!
3) Don't Pick A Saturday In June!
A weekend in the height of the season is going to cost considerably more than a weekday just outside of season. Obviously you're going to want all of your invited guests to be able to attend, so, logically, a weekend would be more ideal; but, if you are looking for just a small ceremony then perhaps a weekday would suit your wallet a little better. A Friday or a Sunday wedding tends to cost half as much as a Saturday; a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday wedding costs even less! So if you have the chance, it is well worth considering avoiding a Saturday!
4) Avoid the 'W' Word . . .
When you're out shopping, whether for decorations, flowers, or wine, it would be incredibily wise of you not to mention that you're shopping for your wedding! If there's anything that causes retailers to drive up the price it is them knowing that you're wedding shopping. Of course, with certain items it's too obvious that they're for a wedding (the dress, the ring, the venue) so at these times expect to get discounts. The trick to successful wedding shopping is to never be afraid to ask for a discount; after all, who dares wins . . . right?
5) Utilise Your Guests
Entertainers, photographers, caterers . . . if any of your guests are any of these things then make sure you get them on board! You would make a huge saving if you were able to cut out the costs of having to hire people to work at your wedding. By having your guests as the photographers it not only saves money, but it also makes the photographs more personal and organic. When planning your special day ask yourselves questions such as: "do we know a baker who could make the cake?", "do we know a DJ?", or "is Auntie Glenda a florist still?". If you manage to save money here, you're likely to save serious money!
