How to Plan Low-Cost Weddings
Weddings are often described as the most important event in a couple’s life. Family and friends gather to experience elaborate ceremonies that end in a lavish reception. In their quest to make their special day memorable for everyone involved, however, many couples find themselves going over budget. The Knot reports that the average wedding in 2013 cost over $29,000. Most brides spent over $1,000 on their wedding dresses, and an average of $200 was spent on every guest attending the wedding.
Nevertheless, contrary to what the bridal magazines and peer pressure might tell you, you do not need a large budget to create a beautiful and memorable wedding experience. In fact, couples who are on a budget are wise to consider cheap weddings so that money can best be spent on new homes and other long-lasting purchases. To make sure your wedding is inexpensive, think about the following tips.
1. Consider banquet halls that are flexible. A flexible banquet hall is a venue that allows you to choose your own caterer and decorative elements. In most cases, the hall will open your banquet room so you can decorate and set up for the wedding. This cuts down on amenities offered by the facility. Also, the best wedding places offer price breaks on days when wedding receptions are not typically held. This can cut your venue budget in half. Think about a reception on a Wednesday or Thursday. Try to stay away from Saturday and Sunday receptions, since these are the most expensive.
2. Think about purchasing all inclusive weddings. These packages are secured at the best wedding destination places. Weddings, receptions, and honeymoons are all included within the price. Venues, hotels, caterers, and other vendors offer price breaks so they can be included in wedding packages, and the savings are passed down to you. The package provides you with a wide variety of flower, food, and decoration choices. This means that cheap weddings can turn out as glorious as expensive ones.
3. Consider wedding flower choices carefully. Flower arrangements for bouquets, centerpieces, and decorations can cost thousands of dollars. Gardenias, hydrangeas, lilies and peonies are some of the most expensive flowers. You may want to shy away from these. Instead, consider cheap options like carnations, gerber daisies, and stock roses. Add greenery, foliage, and branches to flower arrangements so you do not need as many flowers.
4. Think about cutting down guests lists for low-cost weddings. Catering for events, venues, and decoration costs are all reduced by limiting invitations to your wedding. Also, smaller banquet halls can be rented to accommodate the smaller guest list. Consider inviting only close friends and family members to your wedding. If you have not spoken to someone in several years, then you probably do not need them at your wedding. Smaller weddings are not only inexpensive, but they are far more intimate.