The average cost of a wedding today is $28,000. For one day! I personally have a friend whose wedding cost over $100,000! Her parents had to take out a second mortgage on their house to cover the costs.
A person’s wedding day is a very special and important occasion, and of course needs to be celebrated as such. However, the cost of a wedding should not be what determines how special the day is. In fact, with a little bit of creativity, you can create a memorable celebration at a much lower cost.
Vintage, retro, indie, and DIY weddings all allow a bride and groom to create a beautiful, unique wedding celebration while keeping costs down.
Here are some tips for a simpler wedding:
1. Reduce the guest list. The smaller your guest list, the lower the cost of the entire reception and often the ceremony site rental fee as well. Also, with fewer guests, the bride and groom are able to spend more time with each guest. Having a smaller guest list insures that the most important people in your life will be present and that you can celebrate with them. Remember, this day is about what you, the bride and groom, want.
2. Enlist help from friends and family. If you have a friend who is great with flowers, why not have her arrange the table centerpieces? Or does your aunt bake yummy cakes? Perhaps she can make your wedding cake. Have a friend who is an event planner? Maybe he can help with the logistics. You can request these services from friends in lieu of wedding gifts.
3. Have the ceremony in a public park, garden, or museum. Many sites can be reserved for a small fee. Think outside the usual country club or fancy hotel settings. There are many unique and beautiful options available in every community. (Note: Keep in mind you may need to rent chairs for a public park setting, so finding a venue that include the chairs and set-up is often helpful.)
4. Have your wedding near where you live or where the majority of the guests live. This will reduce the cost of travel.
5. Do the catering yourself, or hire a family-owned restaurant. If cooking isn’t your thing, look for a local family-owned restaurant. They will be more able to work with you within your budget and generally will go the extra mile to make your day that much more special.
Remember, being frugal and thrifty is not the same as being cheap. The more thought and creativity you put into your wedding, the more memorable and enjoyable the day will be. Have fun!
