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Daddysredhead -> RE: Marriage and Weddings (1/19/2012 7:03:46 PM)
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First things first! CONGRATS TO YOU AND YOUR BELOVED!!! [:)]
I love weddings. Hibbie is right, I used to be a bridal consultant for 4 years back in the day, and I learned a lot of cost-cutting ideas from my brides. I hope that I live up to Hibbie's expectations re: my wedding this summer. [;)] People can have a great time (as it was previously stated), no matter what it costs. For Geoff and me, having the people who are special to us, on our special day, was key.
I think you got a lot of great ideas from people here and you can also get lots more if you search online for weddings on a small budget. There are ways to make your special day look like you spent a small fortune, when you've actually just stretched a dollar. Since Geoff and I are paying for the wedding ourselves, we are watching expenses carefully, but we still want a pretty and memorable event.
First, figure out a budget you can work with realistically. Come up with your, "The most I can spend for everything included is $_____." Then divide that number into the various catagories (clothing, rings, food, music, marriage license, favors, flowers, cake, etc.).
Next, figure out what what you would like to have for each. If you want something really badly, then you can adjust your other expenses to accommodate your "must have."
For me, I want a really nice meal for my guests since we will be spending most of the time at the reception eating and socializing. When I was looking for a place for the reception, I sent emails to the various places I liked and said, "I'm having ___ guests and my food budget is $_____. Can you do a menu to fit this?" The restaurant I picked said yes, and sent me four menus to choose from. We are mixing a matching from those to give a good variety of the yummy food they serve. Another reason I went with a restaurant is because I don't want to task anyone with picking up or returning rental equipment, chairs, etc., setting up, and cleaning up. The restaurant is doing all of that and they also have linens to match the color scheme I'm using.
The other important detail for us was the location for the ceremony. We wanted a church wedding, with a pretty interior, and if it had some history to it, all the better. We are getting married in a church with lovely stained glass and a bell that will be rung after we are married. These little details are all part of its charm.
With these two items taking up the lion's share of the budget, the rest is being done with the help of some very resourceful people and their ideas. If you want to message me on the flip side, I'd be happy to brainstorm with you. I love Impy's suggestions and think that whatever you decide to do, it will be a really special day for everyone who attends your wedding.
Hugs,
Red :)
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