Holiday Weddings

Brides who are looking to save money on floral arrangements don't have to look much further than the holidays. Most churches by the first of December, are going to have plenty of Poinsettias as part of the decor, and there are also banners, candles, and other color that can make a Christmas wedding very special and festive.

Don't try to reinvent wedding flowers...just use what's on hand. Use the candles, too. You'll save plenty of money and headache.

Singing It

A few years back I presided over a wedding in which the bride and groom (both accomplished singers) provided all of the music for their own wedding. Naturally, they saved money.

There's a "do it yourself" trend in most everything these days: home repair, car repair, home decorating, etc.

Don't overlook all of the possibilities for saving money in this "do it yourself" philosophy. What can you do? Can you paint, draw, sing, decorate?

Might be worth some significant savings as you plan your wedding and reception.

Showers of Blessing

Bridal showers have been around for as long as weddings (I think). But have you considered using your bridal shower for more than just a party to receive gifts?

Now, with the financial stresses facing many brides, a shower can also be an opportunity to ask your friends and family for help with the wedding, reception, etc. It can also be an opportunity to ask for specific gifts that you might be able to use in the ceremony or reception. Many friends would be more than gracious in giving gifts that can actually save brides money.

Your shower can also be a time when you can express your appreciation and love. Make sure you give something so you can receive with graciousness and gratitude.

e-Bay payoff

Increasingly, I'm hearing stories about brides who are financing their wedding plans by selling items on e-Bay. Not a bad little plot and a quick way to make some money.

Better yet, while you're out there on the internet, why not do a little shopping on e-Bay? Might find some great bargains on reception decor, cake stands, toasting flutes, and much more.

Don't be afraid to search for used items that look like new. It's a great way to save.

Longer Engagements

Some years ago, when I was writing Before You Say "I Do", I realized that longer engagements actually save couples money. Several reasons for this.

First, couples who have longer engagements tend to save more for the wedding and honeymoon. They don't go into debt so hastily.

Second, couples who have longer engagements tend to have a deeper appreciation for what it takes to strategize and build a life together. They discuss finances more deeply, and they arrive at a plan, and set goals for their future.

Finally, longer engagements allow couples to get to know each other more fully . . . and this leads to a much better start in marriage. Some couples might even discover that they are not right for each other, not as compatible as they should be, and by not getting married . . . they save more money (and heartache) than they can imagine!

Don't be hasty. Take your time. And do the hard work of talking about finances before you get married!

Rail Car Wedding

Last week my wife attended a reception held in a railroad car (that had been renovated as a reception area/restaurant). Not large, but sizeable enough for a small, intimate wedding party.

Another idea to save big money: why not have your wedding and reception together in a place like this? Invite your family and friends to this dinner, bring in an officiant, take your vows, and everyone stays for the reception. No fuss, no muss.

Unique. Romantic. Candlelight? Good food.

Alternative Days to Save

Last week I met a bride who informed me that she was having her wedding on a Wednesday night. A small affair, certainly, but she was definitely having the kind of wedding that not only saved money, but time, energy, and travel.

Here's how she was working it:

She had reserved a large back room in a downtown Indianapolis restaurant (a nice one!), invited all of her family and friends for the meal, and then she and her fiance were tying the knot before the wedding began. Everything was happening in that one room...ceremony (short and sweet), followed by a dinner reception (no travel to an alternative site). Wow...that's ingenuity. And that's saving money for the honeymoon!!!

Better yet, on a Wednesday night, she got a great deal with the restaurant. Why wouldn't she? Brides who want to get off the Saturday wedding wagon will find some great deals out there!

Free Weddings!

Many couples may never have considered the possibility of getting their entire wedding for free. But it can be accomplished . . . especially if the couple is willing to apply via radio or television for various contests.

One of the best places to begin is by visiting:
www.weddingcontests.com

This little web site offers some of the best options for couples looking to get it all for free.

If you are the type of people who enjoy being interviewed, or who don't mind the media, you might look into applying....