Wedding Recession? - It Does Not Have To Be

The largest mistake a newly engaged couple makes is the assumption that an elaborate wedding means an elaborate budget. A properly planned wedding can be quite cost effective. It’s simple prioritization.

Lists, lists, and more lists. Write out the necessities for your wedding. Venue, menu selection, music and photographer are some of the most shared necessities amongst couples planning their wedding. They are also items that should be taken care of well in advance of the wedding.

Make a budget and keep on track. A common practice amongst couples is spending unconsciously. Sit down as a couple and come up with an estimate of your total spending amount. Make a list of all of your wedding expenses and allot a certain amount of your estimated total to each item on this list. This will allow you to have an approximate total of what you would like to spend when you meet with your vendors.

Here are a few ideas to get the best stretch out of your wedding budget:

Seasons - Winter months although they may seem faux pas, offer a vast amount of discounts. Since they are an off-season they also offer easy date selection. If you’re worried about the weather offer your guests a one-stop location for both your ceremony and reception, such as a hotel. Guests then only have to commute once, and you can also obtain hotel group rates for your out of town guests.

Decor - Stick to flowers that are in-season. Flowers that are in season are far cheaper than those out of season. For the more frugal bride go for flowers in-season that are also indigenous to your region. These flowers will cost far less because you are not paying for the cost of shipping. Choose a simpler centrepiece. Remember guest usually take centrepieces home, providing a more streamlined centrepiece is not only cost effective, but guest appropriate.

Location - Find a location that offers natural beauty. The less decorating you have to do the more cost effective your wedding budget will be.

Destination - A great way to get your dream wedding on a phenomenal budget is through a destination wedding. This is a great option for a more intimate couple, as the wedding party and amount of guests are much smaller than a wedding at home. Destination weddings can be hosted all around the world and usually cost a fraction of the price. The average destination wedding in the Caribbean cost about $5000.

Wedding Planner - Many couples think planners are a luxury, but for the average it is a cost effective necessity. Planners are able to do all the above mentioned and more. A certified wedding planner can even show you how to expand your budget and get the best bang for your buck.

There are many ways to be frugal and still have your luxurious wedding. The best advice to take is to do your research. Don't settle for the first vendor you come across; see at least 3 in each category before making your decision. Always keep your lists at hand so you know where you have leeway in your budget to spend a little more or hold back.

Renee Ferguson WPICC, DWC, CSS
renee@thebeginningofforever.ca