Where to SPEND and where to SAVE, for your WEDDING

Everyone wants the wedding of their dreams. But your budget might not allow for it! So here is a short list of things that are important to budget for, and things you don't necessarily need to throw a lot of dough at. 

SPEND- Open Bar

No one wants to be invited to a party and have to pay for drinks. These people are guests at your wedding, and guests shouldn't have to pay for drinks. So it is crucial you budget for an open bar. If you are working with a very small budget, consider having a limited bar. You can even do b.y.o.b, and just have the bar make one specialty cocktail for your wedding.  As long as you are supplying your guests with some type of complementary beverage, they should be happy!

SAVE- Wedding Cake

Now I'm not saying you shouldn't have a wedding cake. Cutting the cake is still a timeless tradition, and makes for great memories/photos. But the extra-large extravagant cake may be unnecessary. More couples are going with a small minimal cake, for themselves to cut, and save in their freezer for their anniversary. They are doing alternative, more cost-effective desserts like donuts, cupcakes, or even mini pies. Guests won't have to wait in a long line to get a single piece of an over frosted cake, and can just graze through the different array of desserts you have for them.  

SPEND- Videographer

Not having a professional wedding video is one of the most common regrets couples have today. Pictures help capture how the day looked, but video captures how the day felt. With a wedding video, you can see the sights, hear the sounds, and feel the emotions of your big day all over again. You can relive special moments, like your vows to each other, and your first dance. Hiring a videographer also gives you the chance to have all the raw footage from your wedding day, so you can look back at all the little precious moments. Your wedding video is a keepsake that will last a lifetime. Hiring a videographer is a purchase you won’t regret making.

SAVE- Centerpieces/Decor 

Couples spend on average anywhere from $3,000-$10,000 on wedding decorations alone. That's including flowers, centerpieces, and if your venue doesn't provide it, linens. That can be a huge chunk of your budget. And frankly, most guests don’t put down ‘decorations,’ as something they remember about a wedding. There are so many DIY ideas online. You can go crazy at Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree, or Michaels, spending very little money to make your centerpieces/decor! Making your own wedding decorations can become a fun memory you and your bridesmaids have together. And if you MUST have them, may I suggest just doing the bride's bouquet with real flowers. Guests are not going to notice if you DIY the centerpieces, they will be too busy dancing and celebrating your love!

SPEND- The DJ 

If your wedding was an Awards show, the DJ would be the host. They are the one who does the introductions, let people know when to eat, when to dance, and when to do the bouquet toss. They basically run the show. So your brother just playing songs on Spotify from his iPad is not going to cut it for your big day. You need a professional who can play great tunes, and keep your wedding day rolling. 

SAVE- Wedding Shoes

Most wedding dresses are floor length, so in short no one is going to see your feet. Also in pictures, the tips of your toes are usually the only thing you see. So it is not necessary to buy an expensive pair of Louboutins that are barely visible. Also, you will be walking and dancing in your shoes all night, so comfort is key! And if you happen to be wearing a short dress or power suit, there are SO MANY affordable and stylish pairs of shoes in stores and online.