Make your own veil: Veils are usually just made of tulle and a comb or tiara. Don’t pay $30 or more for something you can make on your own for significantly less. Arm yourself with a glue gun, fabric, and a headpiece, then get to work!
Do your own hair and makeup: Unless you’re planning on doing something complicated and ornate, you probably don’t need to call in the professionals. Look to wedding magazines for ideas and instructions, then try it out yourself. Remember to practice your style at least once before your wedding day to make sure things will go smoothly.
Buy a dress that fits now: Many brides plan on losing weight before they get married and buy a too-small dress for motivation. However, this strategy can set you up for disaster if you don’t make it to your goal weight. Buy a dress that fits now, then have it altered when you lose the weight. It’s always cheaper to take in a dress than to let it out.
Wear family jewelry: You don’t need to spend lots of money on wedding jewelry. Chances are that someone in your family has something nice for you to wear on your big day. This saves you money and also takes care of finding “something borrowed.”
Use standard envelopes instead of square: Square envelopes cost more to mail. Even though it’s just a few cents, it can add up when you consider how many invitations you’ll send out. Choose invitations that fit into standard envelopes and you’ll save on postage.
Carry a single stem instead of a bouquet: A simple and elegant single stem can make just as strong a statement as a large bouquet. You’ll save money on both flowers and your florist’s labor by doing this.
Have a friend officiate: If you’re not getting married in a church, doing this can save you the cost of hiring someone to marry you.
Buy and cook your own food: If you’re doing a backyard wedding or celebrating in a non-traditional venue, you may be able to bring in your own food. Buy in bulk and make preparation a fun, family affair.
Don’t do cake: If you don’t care for cake, don’t have it. It will save you money and you’ll get to eat something you really enjoy. Consider setting up an ice cream or fruit bar instead. You’ll save while still getting what you want.
Forget about hard liquor: Hard liquor and mixed drinks cost more than other alcohol. Cut them out and offer choices of beer, wine and soft drinks instead.
Hire a high-quality vendor: This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s important to splurge on a professional that can get the job done right. You’ll spend more in the long run if your amateur photographer or band flakes out on you and you’re forced to hire someone else at the last minute.
Plan ahead: If you get started early, you’ll have the time and flexibility to shop sales, cut coupons, do-it-yourself and comparison shop.
