Budget Budget Budget – I know that this is often a huge concern – How to get everything you dream of into that budget – or Champagne taste on Budweiser wallet – Budget is a very important part of your planning -I truly believe no one should go into debt for years or put their parents in debt over a wedding.
Buying your gown at the big box store saves over the boutiques – Not at all – I know many boutiques with gowns starting at around $300.00- they are also owned by your local business people who have a vested interest in your business – your wedding – and your word of mouth recommendations –
Same on Flowers – Your privately owned florist is trained – to know flowers – to design flowers and again – vested interest in your business and your local community. Above all – the people you meet with 9 months before your wedding are more likely to be there for your wedding and creating your vision – All of the privately owned florists I know also have fabulous ideas on how to meet just about any budget –
Disposable Cameras –Please ask your girlfriends that have done it how many photos were worth having – you buy the cameras – develop the cameras and have great photos of knees – noses – and the dance floor – If looking for entertainment for your guests – go for it – otherwise put that couple of hundred dollars towards your professional photographer.
“My friend has a camera” — that sends shivers down my back every time – when this amazing day is over you have your spouse, your rings and your photos. No it is not necessary to buy the $5,000 package if not in your budget, but by all means consider a professional if only for a few hours for the most important shots. Not only for the experience ( your photos will happen much more rapidly so you can get on to your guests), but the equipment – the eye and the lighting. My experience has been that most friends, Uncles and cousins have not spent the extra thousands on the lighting and that really makes the difference.
Buffet is always less – No not necessarily – It depends what you would like to serve. I have found that very often a single entree sit down dinner not only is elegant but can be done for less. A sit down dinner of a single entree lets the caterers know exactly how much food they need – everyone is served gracefully – there does not need to be a percentage of overage on food for changed minds /forgotten minds / or being sure the buffet does not have the 100th guest look like the 100th guest going through
As always remember to have fun, focus on keeping it simple and surprise your guests with some apple cider, ice cream sundae station, or hot cocoa in the winter. Maybe a basket full of apple cider donuts as they arrive for a ceremony in the fall – Skip lots of little things that shall find there way to the garbage afterwards and think of one fun factor that plays on your season or your love. Your guests will remember this and also kind to the environment.