Cruise Ship Wedding

Brides and Grooms may not often consider the savings that can be had at sea, but couples desiring to combine the wedding/reception/and honeymoon might discover that a cruise can accomplish everything for the price of one. The last time I checked, a sea captain could marry couples, and for the price of a few tickets, the world is your oyster.

Don't go overboard (sorry) on the costs and you'll save enough money that you won't have to walk the gangplank of debt when you get back to shore.

Consider and ocean wedding if you want to save.

New Year's Eve

Now I've heard about everything...a wedding and reception on New Year's eve. But, wow, it saves cash.

Think about it...the party is already built-in. Adjust the wedding plans to include a New Year's eve gathering and you have a true money-saving event. People will even stay up late and celebrate with the bride and groom.

I guess the message here is simple. Don't overlook the holidays as a source of wedding/reception money-saving.

Saving on Good Counsel

I often tell couples that they can save the largest amount of money for their marriage if they get good premarital counseling. Most couples wonder how this could possibly be true.

But considering the the divorce rate is still hovering around 50%, and considering that divorce is a very costly decision economically, getting good counsel before marriage is always a money-saving venture. Good counsel can help couples plan their future together, set a budget, save for the future, and steer clear of financially-disastrous habits (such as spending more than they make in income or living on credit).

Financial instability and financial stress is still the number one reason for divorce. If couples find themselves falling behind on a mortgage, a car payment, or they are overwhelmed with debt, the marriage of most is going to suffer big time. Financial stresses are almost always the beginning point of marital discord and breakup.

So . . . spend a little more for great counsel before you get marriage, and reap the rewards of saving more and spending less later. Your marriage will thank you.

Oriental Trading

One of the most inexpensive and readily-available sources of wedding supplies is Oriental Trading (www.orientaltrading.com). Great site for all things decorational, seasonal, as well as items such as balloons, bubbles, table decor, streamers, or unique items for the reception.

If you haven't discovered this site in your planning, take a look. It may save you hundreds of dollars as you plan your reception.

Saving Tip #1

If you are looking to save money for your honeymoon, try using some of these tips.

Tip #1
RETURN TO THE COOKIE JAR
Here's a simple, yet effective way of putting aside some significant "pocket change", especially if your honeymoon plans are a year or more away. Every time you get change from a purchase, place the change in a cookie jar or other large container. Continue to collect this money over the course of a year. And when you are ready to use it . . . sort it, wrap it, and cash it in for bills.

I've used this simple method for years to help pay for our family vacations. It is amazing how much money (just in change) can pile up over the course of a year.

My personal best: I saved some $350 one year for our family vacation. Not exactly chump change! That little nest egg paid for our gasoline round trip, and a couple of nights lodging.

Don't sneeze at the cookie jar and don't raid it! Just keep saving.

Healthy Honeymoons

I'm not really a health nut, but the other day I noted an article in a bridal magazine regarding some of the healthiest honeymoon destinations. Then the idea struck me! Couldn't a healthy honeymoon also be a low cost honeymoon?

For example, for couples who enjoy hiking . . . how about a honeymoon trip to the great Northwest and seeing some of the volcanoes, redwoods, etc. Miles and miles of trails over some tough terrain. Romantic, plenty of alone time, and the sights would be spectacular. Lose weight and get into shape on the honeymoon, what a novel idea!

Or how about a trip to the Great Lakes? Do some kayaking?
How about a trip to the Rockies, do some skiing?
How about a trip to the Grand Canyon and Phantom Ranch? Talk about losing weight!

Don't overlook a health conscious honeymoon as a great way to save money.