Budget Wisely - Don't "Go Cheap"

I'm asked again and again for my advice on squeezing the most of a less-than-millionaire budget.  These are my best recommendations:

1. Prioritize.  Make yourself a list starting with the element that is most important to you (for example: "quality of food" or "entertainment").  Spend money where it's important to you and to your guests, not where the books and magazines say you should.

2. Do not channel Martha: Martha Stewart is not real.  The person exists but the persona does not.  Her editors find exciting, flashy ideas...not ones that are always possible or accessible to most.  A little inspiration is good.  A lot of envy is bad.

3. Have brunch and save.  It's true, you can save a bundle but still throw a very elegant event by switching to a brunch, or a Sunday or Friday event.  Just remember, some things won't be easy or less expensive.  Limos may have school events to service and some wedding pros (even the good ones) moonlight.

4. Go seasonal: if you have to ship it in from Hawaii because you are getting married in December in Maine, it's going to cost more.

5. Cut your guest list: if you don't know their last name or marital status, toss 'em.  You should only be inviting close personal friends and family to such a sacred event anway, right?

I always say "plan a good party".  Get great entertainment, great-tasting and bountiful food and a great sense of humor, and you will have a jaw-dropping wedding on any budget.

Comments

[Katie]

Nice blog! I really enjoy reading this one. These ideas are very helpful especially for brides like me who don't have a fortune to spend just to make a one day event. I really appreciate blogs like this because at some point this really make sense especially with what economy we have today.