Special guest post on some great money saving tips by Kathryn Porritt from Bridal Style Inc

Weddings are so special and important – one of the days in your life that you will remember forever – but they can also be a big drain on the budget.  Many weddings these days cost into six figures and can mean that you start your life in debt.  That isn’t a great idea!  But, you can create the memories you want, with all the glitz and glamour you desire, without heading into the red.  Here are some great tips you can use to save money on your wedding day:

1. Decide what’s really important to you and only splurge on those items. There are some things that are really important to you on your wedding day – it might be the photography and the flowers, for example. So, splurge on those things and then save on the items that aren’t as key to you.  You can scrimp easily on items like favours, wedding accessories online and wine – if you shop around.
2. Don’t be scared to ask for a discount. Now is not the time to be coy. Get your negotiating pants on and ask for a discount – you’ll be amazed what vendors will give you as added extras or discounts if you simply ask the question.  And, what’s the worst that can happen?  They say no!
3. Try a different time of day for you reception. Conventional wedding times and days can be a drain on the budget because you’re competing with everyone else. If you want to save a little cash, and be on trend, try a cocktail reception or even a brunch reception.  You’ll save some money, have the option to be really versatile with your menu and catering, and be super stylish as well.  All the trendy set are doing it.
4. It’s all about who you know. You want the best quality for the best price, so think about weddings or events you’ve been to that you loved and ask the bride and groom for recommendations for their vendors. Recommendations mean you know what you’re getting in terms of quality, and also you can potentially save money with a referral.
5. Yes, you should use a wedding planner. No matter how small your budget it, think about using a wedding planner.  It may sound counterintuitive, but think about it.  A wedding planner takes all of the emotion out of negotiating you the best deals, and they’re well connected, so they’re in the know with the best vendors.  Plus, you get the added bonus of less stress planning your big day.  All round, wedding planners are a great idea.
6. Only choose in-season fresh produce & flowers. Flowers can be a huge drain on the budget if you get carried away by out of season blooms. Stop yourself from overspending easily by only choosing flowers that are in season locally at the time of your wedding day.  The flowers will look better and they’ll be cheaper too.
7. Be miserly with alcohol. Yes, your wedding day is a big party after the vows have been made, but alcohol is one of the biggest ticket items that can drain your budget dry.  To stay within a smaller budget, choose one bubbly, one beer and one red wine and buy in bulk – you’ll save a fortune!
8. Location, location, location. Try hosting the ceremony and reception in the same location to save on venue costs and transport. If you have guests staying together at the venue too, then you are in a great position to save some money by letting the venue know you have multiple bookings tied to the one event.  They are sure to give you a great rate.
9. Are cars really that important? Hire cars are one of the items that can be a drain on the budget. If you have a family member or friend with a lovely car that you can pretty up with a ribbon, then do that instead of hiring cars. It will still feel special on arrival, but you avoid the cost.
10. Get inspired by Martha Stewart. Weddings are the perfect time to get crafty! Be inspired by the many wedding websites around the world dedicated to helping you create beautiful decorations, favours and stationery without overspending.  Much can be achieved with a bottle of bubbly and your bridesmaids on a craft it yourself night!

Above all else, make a budget and stick to it.  Yes, really stick to it.  Keep a spreadsheet of your expenses and when each payment is due so you don’t lose bookings or pay any penalties.  If you overspend on one area, capture that in your spreadsheet and find somewhere else to make up the difference.  Being super organized is the best way to save money on your wedding day.

Do you have any great ideas for saving money on a wedding?  Please share with us in the comments.

By Kathryn Porritt

Kathryn Porritt is the owner of Bridal Style Inc, your feminine online wedding shop filled with a curated collection of bridal accessories, wedding lingerie and wedding gowns to buy online. A celebrated author on all things weddings and parties, and an experienced wedding planner and stylist, Kathryn’s unique feminine wedding style is brought to her customers through her beautiful online wedding collections.