Planning a wedding is a lot like juggling a budget.
When you say “yes” to one thing you’re really saying “no” to another.
That’s why you might want to consider letting go of some “traditional” Wedding Day staples so you can include things you really want.
So here’s a few ways you might be able to save some $$$ while still planning your Big Day:
1. Save The Dates
Listen, guests don’t really care about the Save The Dates so don’t spend a lot of money on these. Yes, they can be super cute, with the engagement photo on it, hanging on the fridge, but with the cost of stationery & postage, it’s not a gotta-have.
2. Programs
No! You don’t need to print out 150 programs that end up being dumped or trashed (sorry, it’s true). Instead, use a chalk board or other signage as they enter the venue that gives a run-down of your itinerary.
3. Place Cards
Elaborate name cards on their place settings don’t impress guests. That doesn’t mean you don’t have a seating chart - but again, you can use a chalk board or other signage to show who sits where.
4. *Generic* Guest Books
These can be really fun, but if you have a run-of-the-mill guest book you’ll find that *only* about half of your guests will sign and it’s not something most Brides DO look back on.
5. Slideshow of Memories
Guests are there to celebrate YOUR special day but a slideshow of you and your beloved can cost $$$, take a lot of time to prep, and often don’t interest your guests as much as you think! Instead put up a display in a corner that guests can browse if you really want to show off those early memories.
6. Bouquet & Garter Toss
Do not feel like you have to do both. Or either, if you don’t feel comfortable. It is’t necessary (we promise your guests won’t talk about it later). Do what you want on your Wedding Day if certain traditions don’t make sense to you.
7. Wedding Favors
We *think* we have to, but if you need to cut your budget, start with party favors. You’ll see most of them left behind on the tables after your guests go home and you’ll be frustrated that you spent money when you could’ve poured that cash into something more useful.
8. Grand Exit
Truthbomb: a Grand Exit is more important to you than to your guests. And while getting swept off into the sunset can feel glamorous, it’s not a must-have for your friends & family. And P.S. If you are worried that guests will have left by the time you’re ready to leave, ask your photographer to “stage” a “Grand Exit photo” earlier in the evening.
Of course the above list CAN be a lot of fun to create and add to that atmosphere, so if you have the cash, then we say GO FOR IT! But if not, don’t lose sleep and just cut the expense.