While your wedding day is going to be one of the most special days of your life, it can certainly turn from dream day to debt nightmare quite quickly. With so many things to buy and plan, it can be easy to spend thousands of dollars that you don’t have. Luckily, glamorous doesn’t have to mean expensive and there are plenty of ways to get that gorgeous day you have always wanted without being penniless afterwards. Here is some money saving tips for the big day.
Start Saving ASAP
If you have just gotten engaged, and the big day is still a while off, you can start doing all you can to save money. Cutting out those small unnecessary things will make a big difference in the long run and you will be surprised how much a little each week quickly adds up.
While saving all the money for the wedding might not be possible, it’s a good idea to try your best to avoid loans. Starting off your marriage with a massive debt is not the optimal position. If you must get a loan be smart about it. Look around to see your best option and be realistic by only borrowing an amount you are going to be able to pay back without major stress.
Budget
Sticking to a budget is crucial to avoid money headaches later on. It is a great idea to sit down with your partner and decide what your budget is going to be before you even start looking at the things you want. If you find that gorgeous, yet expensive, dress beforehand you may be tempted to bump up your spending allowance. Come up with an amount and stick to it.
Prioritise
Once you have decided how much you are willing to spend make a list of your priorities. Deciding what things are essential means you can get them out of the way first to ensure you have enough for them. If a dress, venue and photographer are your top priorities for example, you may need to think of cheaper options when it comes to food.
Shop Around and Haggle
Shop around! Don’t simply fall in love with the first thing you see as often you will find something that is better and cheaper down the road. You can even try and get better deals by letting a store know that you found the same thing at a better price; they may try and beat it. You can also take advantage of online shopping to find great deals from places like eBay or even dress stores that are getting rid of old stock.
Be Different
Do you really need the typical sunny Saturday wedding? Picking the off-peak days and times can save you a bundle. Be a winter wedding winner by booking a venue on the unpopular dates. Not only will you save money but you will also create a wedding that is truly unique and memorable. When booking the venue make sure you know all of the costs involved and what you are entitled to with your booking.
Guest List
Do you really need to invite your uncle’s cousin’s sister’s niece? Only invite the people that you have a strong relationship with and you truly want to attend. The guest list can grow quicker than you think so being selective in the beginning will save you a lot of stress.