Every bride has a budget, whether big or small, but every bride has one. I have yet to meet a girl who isn't interested in saving money somehow. Then comes the important part: what are DIY projects that can save you some cash, and what are "don'ts"?
We asked several of our brides the projects they were considering as DIY projects and got some input from them as to what is quick and easy and can save you a good chunk of change. Here's what we think:
1. Invitations. Have your super artsy creative bridesmaid, groomsmen, or good friend design them for you and then professionally printed. Then gather your girlfriends together to assemble and mail! Make it fun by popping in a fun wedding movie and having margaritas or a glass of wine.
2. Centerpieces. These don't have to be elaborate to the point that you can't do them yourself. Mirrors, candles and flowers can be very classy and simple centerpieces for your table and be easy on the pocketbook. If the food is good, no one will miss the froo-froo on the tables!
3. Flowers. Think about using silk and arranging yourself or having a friend help you. You can find books that teach you (Flower Arranging for Dummies?) how to put together nice bouquets and even the boutonnieres. Trust us ladies, you can do this!! Silk flowers can save you a lot of money as well, AND you can have the flowers you always wanted for your bouquet, in season or not!
So now that you know there are ways to save, here are the areas that are big fat DON'TS!!
1. Your dress. First of all, don't try to make your gown. It's always better to hire a professional or purchase something. Don't, I repeat, don't skimp out on your gown. I'm not saying you need to spend an arm and a leg. But this basically the most important purchase you will make for your wedding, and you do need to feel amazing and love the way you look when are wearing when you have the gown on. Your glow on the day of the wedding comes from knowing you look like a million bucks and feeling confident in that. So if the gown of your dreams is a little out of the price range, think about some of our recommended DIY projects above that can allow more in the budget for your gown.
2. Photography. In the opinion of our brides, this is the second most important purchase you will make for your wedding. Your pictures will be the only thing you have to actually remember that amazing day! You want them to be awesome! According to Bride's magazine, the average couple spends $2,097 on their photographer. Again, that might more than you were thinking, but consider that you will have the pics forever. It's worth every penny.
3. The food. Make sure it's good. That's what people will remember about your reception, especially if it's bad. I remember the food from almost every wedding I have been to and how awesome (or not) it was. What I don't remember: the centerpieces.
Happy planning!