10 tips to ease the wallet when planning your wedding

With all the talk of surging gas prices, nation-wide mortgage crises, increasing food costs, etc., it feels as though EVERYTHING is becoming more and more expensive.  With so many expenses on the rise, the idea of planning a wedding can feel...well, daunting.  However, I am convinced that you don't have to spend a fortune to have a beautiful and stylish wedding, even during the current economic climate.  With a little bit of organization, diligence and creativity, you can create a wedding that is stunning and doesn't break the bank.

The following 10 tips will help you save some cash and create a memorable and stylish event, even in today's world.

Tip #1

When shopping for a dress, choose one that can easily be modified to look designer.  For example, purchase a simple dress and have a tailor add on a color sash.  With a little bit of creativity and a great tailor, you can save $100's of dollars.

Tip #2

Find venues that will allow you to bring in your own liquor while their staff serves it.  This is usually less expensive, even when you offer your guests top shelf liquors.  Furthermore, keep your cocktail hour to one hour and then only offer wine and beer during the dinner and reception.

Watch your local liquor store for sales and purchase your "bar" over time.  For example, red wine may be on sale this week and your favorite champagne may be a holiday special in a couple of months. 

Tip #3

Order your cake from a grocery store.  Many stores can now make really pretty cakes and all you have to do is dress them up.  These cakes were purchased from a local grocery chain and then adorned with blue ribbon and topped with flowers arranged by a local florist.

Tip #4

Order invitations that are flat print.  This is vastly less expensive than embossed, engraved or letterpress invitations and look just as good.

Tip #5

Use your local craft store coupons to purchase various decor items.  For example, Michaels Craft Store usually has a weekly 40% off coupon.  This coupon is great to use on a large box of votive holders, big candles, ribbon, matte boards, frames, etc.

Tip #6

Work with your caterer to have them provide the main table linens and you provide runners  that incorporate your wedding colors.  Have your vendor provide neutral colors (white or black linens) and add in your splash of color with fabric you purchase at a fabric store.

The theme of this wedding was fly fishing.  Blue silk fabric was purchased and was made to look like a river flowing down the middle of the tables.

Tip #7

Hand make (or computer generate) special touches that will make your event really special.  For example, make your own table cards using a photo, a description and a picture frame.  One idea is to name each of your tables a place that you and your fiance have been and in a sentence or two, explain why that place has so much meaning.  Incorporate a picture of the two of you in that location, place your sign in a frame, and you have a wonderful table card.

Tip #8

Purchase a simple veil and embellish it by hand.  For example, I purchased a cathedral length veil that was very simple. Using fabric glue, I adhered tiny crystals to the veil that matched the pattern on my dress. 

Tip #9

Instead of having flowers as centerpieces, use other items that tie your colors and theme together.  For example, you can use big tall vases filled with fruit or a variety of greenery, or use differing heights of pillar candles tied with ribbon that matches your wedding colors.

Tip #10

Make your own wedding favors or buy simple items that are a nice touch to thank guests  for celebrating your special day with you.  For example, if your color palette is light green and red, purchase fresh pears and make a tag that says "thank you for coming...from the perfect pair" and tie the tag with red ribbon. 

Another idea is to give your guests handmade wine charms tied with a tag that says "thank you for celebrating with us...from the charming couple."

Best of luck with your upcoming wedding. 

Meghann Kopecky

President/Design Director of Urbanity, a company specializing in invitations, announcements and fun party ideas.  www.urbanitystudios.com