Saving on Your Wedding

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding, the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Before You Say "I Do", Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget, 300 Money-Saving Tips, and more.  Visit often for more money-saving ideas on your beautiful day.

At a recent wedding I noted three money-saving ideas.  After asking the father of the bride to comment on these, I offer them here for your consideration, too.  Great ideas, all.

1. Suits instead of tuxes.  Yes, tux rental seems to be on the way out.  Have noted an increasing number of weddings that, though formal, don't require tuxedo rental for the groomsmen or the groom. Dark suits are in again, as well as gray.  And listen, suits look great if you can find matching neckties.  Hundreds saved here, especially if the father is paying for the rentals.

2. Natural table decor.  Yes, at my most recent wedding, I noted that the bride had decorated the tables (an outdoor wedding) with simple white table cloths with wooden centerpieces (natural wood) and flowers from the garden (not the florist shop).  Savings?  Tremendous, considering that there were nearly 25 tables and, with floral-cut centerpieces, would have cost hundreds if not a couple grand.  Elegant. Natural. And beautiful.

3.  Thursday night instead of Saturday.  Again, off nights can save big money.  This venue would have costs a few thousand, but having the wedding on an off night saved considerably...according to dad.  And because the wedding was held over a holiday (four day weekend) the Thursday night held up very well on attendance. In fact, it was a smash hit...and a savings.

Making You List . . . Checking It Twice

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding...the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget.  Drop by often for more money-saving tips.

A recent excursion into a bridal shop confirmed the importance of making a bridal list.  Without a clear plan it is easy to become overwhelmed by the array of choices and challenges of bridal shopping.  This isn't just true of attire, but every aspect of the wedding planning.

A list is essential for those brides who are looking to save money (and perhaps have a more robust honeymoon or even a down payment on a house).  With the average credit card debt now topping out over $10,000, brides can very easily enter into marriage with cumbersome debt. 

List-making is very helpful for decor, accessories, travel arrangements, reservations, and even those odds-and-ends that might sneak up at the last minute.

Most helpful is the list that can be shared with family and friends.  Many items you may need could be donated, borrowed, or even shared.  Try it.  Don't feel that you have to purchase everything to make your wedding beautiful. 

Time Savers

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding...the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget (Sourcebooks) and Before You Say "I Do" (Perigee).  Visit often for more money-saving tips for your beautiful day.

As the old adage goes:  time is money.  And when it comes to planning your wedding, your time can indeed translate into dollars.  So you need to have sense when it comes to time-management.

A few tips that might help save you time and money:

* Create a master list of the items you will need for your wedding and, when you are ready to purchase these, create a driving route and a time frame for this work. Don't spread this out over days or counties . . . that's a lot of gasoline and a lot of time, which translates into more money spent.  Rather, finish your work on time and in time.  Money saved.

* When at all possible, look to shop online.  Amazing what you can find now (with great photos) on web sites and stores overseas.  My daughter purchased her wedding dress (made outside the U.S.) but saved hundreds of dollars (even with shipping included).  The dress fit perfectly, by the way!

* Look to buy a honeymoon package from a well-established travel agent.  Agents can find superb deals and also get you top rates for airfare, lodging and side-excursions.

* When at all possible, take the advice of someone who has been there before you.  Whether it be a location, your dress, or finding the best deals on decor, you are likely to know someone who can save you lots of money via their advice.

Stay with it . . . your time is precious.  And as you know, your time translates into money.

Farm Fresh

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Before You Say "I DO" and Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget.  Visit often for more tips on saving time, money, and stress on your special day.
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Increasingly, brides are discovering the beauty and savings to be had from outdoor weddings.  And they are also discovering that a farm wedding isn't about cowpies and chicken feathers so much as it is about spacious surroundings, plentiful parking, low stress, and a unique venue that offers beauty and brawn along with less hit on the pocketbook.  In short, a farm wedding can be anything you want it to be, and you'll have no trouble finding equipment and catering services that will bring a panache to your party.

At last count, I had counted over a dozen farm venues in my county alone, and that number is growing.  Increasingly farmer Johns are opening up their barns for large groups, and offering the homestead for photos and tents as well as corn.

Check with your local chamber of commerce (first option) or seek out brides who have used an outdoor venue.  In short order you'll have a short list of farms in your area that would welcome your group--and some with amenities that you will surprise you.

Go ahead . . . think green . . . think farm fresh.  You'll save (yes!) when you consider how much it's going to cost to rent that hotel plaza or wedding facility.  And once you factor in the single location for both wedding and reception, those savings will land squarely in your bank account . . . and what couple couldn't use some more cash for the honeymoon or a downpayment on a farm of their own?

Amazon

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding, the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for more money-saving tips for your special day.

It has been years now since the money-saving light has blinked at Amazon.com, and it is safe to say that brides can find most any item on the Amazon site.  The Amazon bridal accessories, in particular, offer many savings.  Purses, veils, stockings, gloves, even shoes . . . it's all here.

Brides should not overlook the savings to be had in other areas of the Amazon site, however.  For example, there is an Amazon bridal registry.  Brides can set up their gift list here--not much different than any department store.  Only drawback to Amazon, of course, is that brides aren't handling the merchandise first . . . they aren't holding it in hand when they make their selections.  Still, Amazon offers remarkable savings for those who know what they want.  And don't forget the free shipping.

And, as Amazon began principally as a book seller, don't forget that there are many books and magazines that can offer additional savings--resources that can help brides to find those money-saving ideas from housekeeping to honeymoon.

Valentine's Day

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father-of-the-bride and author of Before You Say "I Do" and Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget.  Visit often for more money saving wedding tips.

Many couples are discovering that Valentine's Day weekend is a cost-savings bonanza.  In addition to sales and savings on many love-related items, there are also wedding related opportunities to be had. 

For example, a growing number of pastors and churches are offering Valentine's Day weddings (for free).  I've read about several of these opportunities for those couples who would like to get married on Valentine's Day and don't really go in for all of the frills and spills of the traditional wedding (and the related costs).  The Day itself makes the wedding special and memorable, and couples that don't feel the need to buy into the traditional wedding madness can take advantage of these savings (and memories).

The idea here is that couples can get married in a church venue, take their vows, sign their license, and be on their honeymoon way . . . and most of the time pre-marital counseling is included (and that's extremely valuable).  Couples can slate a time, enjoy the already decorated church, and not have to worry about all of the other amenities that consume their time and money.  Invite friends and family and, viola!, wedding. 

It's probably too late to take advantage this year . . . but if you are looking ahead . . . well, book ahead. 

Airport Answers

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father-of-the bride and author of Before You Say "I Do" and Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget.  Visit often for more money-saving ideas.

Recently a friend invited me to a wedding in the airport.  Now, this was a new venue to me.  Sure, I considered the airport for my flying needs, but for a wedding? 

What I learned, however, is that most airports do have large meeting rooms.  Most of the time these rooms are used for corporate gatherings, but can also be rented out for other occasions.  Including weddings.

What this bride and groom loved about an airport wedding was the convenience of it.  Evidently, their idea was the get married, host the reception (in the same room), and then, afterwards, catch the first flight out to some tropical destination for the honeymoon.  All in all, not a bad set of ideas. 

I'm not sure about the cost of an airport wedding (as far as rental goes) but I can see the benefits in terms of parking (always available in the large garages), food, practicality, and timing.  For couples who are pressed for time, an airport wedding offers ceremony, reception and travel in a one-stop atmosphere.

I'd love to hear more from other couples who took advantage of this option.  Anyone else out there ever participated in, or attended, an airport wedding?

~Todd Outcalt

Talking about Money

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for more money-saving ideas for your beautiful day and your life. 

Marriage counselors continue to point out that financial issues are the number one reason why couples divorce.  But what with education debt, mortgages, car loans, and people generally living about their means, it's no wonder the money continues to be a primary source of stress in marriage.  (The Average American also spends something like 104% of income.)

But couples don't have to begin marriage with this burden in tow.  Solid planning, open and honest discussion about money, and a budgeting plan for life are some of the keys to lasting happiness.  Setting goals and striving together toward those goals not only affects a bank account, but also continues to capture the heart and imagination in marriage. 

As you plan your big day, don't forget to have those heart-to-heart talks about your financial philosophy and the goals that will keep you together.  Down the road, your relationship will benefit from these plans. 

And with a goal, you'll actually have a star to strive for.  But don't worry . . . you'll get there.  As long as you control your finances and don't let finances control you, life's a peach.

Talk Time

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding, the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do" (3rd Edition).  Visit often for more money-saving tips.

Great marriages are built upon the solid foundation of love, commitment and common goals.  And when it comes to money--or more specifically, saving money--couples who plan together stay together.  Conversations about money should definitely begin in the engagement stage, and couples who set a budget long before marriage are far less likely to fall apart when finances become a focal point.  (And they always do!)

In fact, finances are one of the most common reasons why couples develop problems.  Or again, the inability or unwillingness to discuss money and share common financial goals is one of the biggest stressers in marriage.

A three-part solution to finances can begin in the engagement period if couples will discuss the following:

* What financial goals do we agree upon for our first five years of marriage (debt-reduction? obtaining a mortgage?  emergency funds?, etc.)?

* How will we/ can we use our finances to affirm what is most important in our lives?

* What long-term financial goals can we agree upon before we get married?

Ringing in the New Year

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father-of-the-bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for money-saving tips on your beautiful day.


Since most brides begin planning their weddings at least a year in advance, January is the perfect time to make those financial resolutions that can lead to balance and a perfect wedding budget.  And remember:  the longer you begin making those plans for the wedding, the longer you will have to save in order to make them a reality.

Last-minute planning often leads to financial heartache.  There have been many brides who simply overextend their dreams and then overextend their bank accounts as well.  But with advance planning--and advance saving--most wedding dreams can be fulfilled and financed at the same time.

Put January to work for you by starting early.  Set aside money each week (or each month) for some of those honeymoon goals, or decor needs, or even for that down payment on a house.  The longer you stretch toward your goal, the greater the odds of achieving it. 

Toward this end, think of it as paying yourself first, or tipping yourself first, or even setting aside gratifications now for greater rewards later.  You are your greatest investment. 

More Christmas Decor

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father-of-the-bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for money-saving tips for your beautiful day.

There's more to Christmas decor . . . including those money-saving ideas for wedding and reception.  When you think about color and attitude, why walk away from a season loaded with lights, candle flame, trees, poinsettias, bulbs and bells?  There's enough here to save loads of money if you choose a fully-loaded reception hall or house of worship.  The decor comes standard.

And consider this too:  if you can arrange your wedding on a non-Saturday afternoon (say a Friday or Sunday) you can very likely save even more money on those rental fees.  Off-peak hours are usually less.

And finally, if you can hold your wedding between Christmas and New Year's day, you will likely have more guests (or at least guests who can travel).  And all of that decor will still be there . . . all for the taking.

What's not to like?

In Shape

Staying in shape for one's wedding . . . or getting "into shape", can actually be a cost-saving measure, too.  Being healthy, and taking responsibility for one's health, is a key ingredient in marriage.

Couples that enjoy activities together--and even simple past-times like eating meals together--are far more likely to have long and healthy marriages. For years my wife and I have enjoyed hiking, kayaking, and exploration.  These pursuits have not only united us in common interests, but have also enabled us to stay in shape while enjoying long conversations and problem-solving.  (It is indeed amazing how often we have discussed family crises, financial stresses, retirement planning, and trip planning during our hiking adventures.)

The point here is this:  you don't have to spend big money to have fun together.  And you might also want to think about some of those inexpensive activities during your honeymoon, trading out some of the high-cost excursions for simple past-times that would strengthen your relationship.

Staying in shape can also keep your marriage in shape.  It's true.  Now get on that treadmill!

Making the Most of the Holidays

Welcome to Debt-Free Wedding, the blog written by a Father of the Bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget, Before You Say "I DO" and 300 Debt-Free Wedding Ideas.  Visit often for money-saving tips for your beautiful day.


It's a fact that brides can usually save big money on wedding decor . . . IF they are willing to use the holiday decorations and colors already existent in the church, the rental hall, or the park.  The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to enjoy money-saving options, and all of those holly sprigs, Christmas trees, poinsettias and Hanukkah decorations are perfect for your wedding!  You don't have to do any set up, just take advantage of the beauty.

And with the average decorating costs for a wedding running into a five dollar bill, it's easy to see how a holiday wedding can provide enough money-savings for an extra night or two of honeymooning or even pay for airfare.  Or, for those brides who want to be really frugal, you can essentially pocket those savings and keep the money in the bank.

Make the most of the holidays by making your wedding both memorable and built-in-beautiful.   

Corny Ideas

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . a blog written by a father-of-the-bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget, 300 Weddings Ideas, and Before You Say "I Do".  Brides who visit often will find dozens of money-saving tips for their day.

Poppers

For centuries people have enjoyed popped corn, and as far as snacks go, popcorn is still King.  Better yet, it's also one of the lowest cost snacks to make.

Many wedding receptions have looked to the popcorn popper (think movie version) as a low-cost option for after-dinner snacks, or even as an addition to the festivities, especially if the reception is centered on drinks and dancing.  Even large popcorn poppers don't cost much (Sam's Club, Meijer, Costco all have versions of the popper for sale) and they are also rentable.  Ask around, and you might be able to locate a popper that a friend would loan.

And if you have children at the reception, you can't go wrong with this idea.  Kids love popcorn, and having a popper on hand can also make the parents very happy. 

Happy popping . . . .

 

Let's Get Started

So, after this long hiatus, it's now time to begin again like Michael Finnegan.  For those brides who are looking to save money, create a debt-free wedding, and kick start their marriage with a balance in their bank account . . . this is one place to begin. 

Dads will also appreciate this blog, and mothers, too.

But after this long break (and my own daughter's wedding) let me get started with this super-duper money-saving tip:

Marriage Advice in a Bottle
     Couples can create a fun and exciting marriage by inviting the reception guests to deposit "marriage advice" in a bottle.  These bottles, and the accompanying slips of paper and ink pens, can be on each reception table or placed on a stand near the buffet.
     But after the wedding, don't open all of these pieces of advice at once.  Rather, read a piece of advice each week during your first year of marriage, or spread them out over your first five anniversaries.
     These small bits of advice will keep you grounded, draw you back to the support of your family and friends, and provide some remarkable conversation-starters to help you build your marriage. 
     And here's the kicker:  very little cost associated with this marital advice.  A few wine bottles, some scrap paper, and a package of ink pens.  Much less expensive, believe me, than hiring a counselor to provide the same advice. 

 

Bargains

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the super savings blog written by a father of the bride and author of the books Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do".  Drop by often for more money-saving tips.

Savvy brides can certainly find spectacular bargains on bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses . . . if they desire to have a debt free wedding.  For example, David's Bridal offers the bridal gown (shown above) for $249, and yes, there are even $100 bridal gowns, too.  The sky is the limit for what a bride could pay for a gown, but brides who want to keep their feet on the ground can find beautiful attire for a down to earth price.

Also, consider Zappos.com for bridesmaids dresses under $100, with many under $70.  Yes, beauty and a bargain.  What a combination.

And don't forget to shop some of your local retailers for close-out specials and after-season bargains.  They are there . . . and all for the savvy bride.

Christmas Bulbs

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding...the blog written by a father of the bride and author of Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget, 300 Debt Free Wedding Ideas, and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for money saving tips on your beautiful day.

If you are planning a Christmas wedding, don't forget that your decor is a given and will be one of your best money-saving tools.  Likewise, a pre-Christmas wedding can offer some fun gift options for the bride and groom, including Christmas tree decorations or commemorative bulbs.  These can be purchased rather inexpensively and can also serve as a keepsake.

You could also decorate a tree at the reception and invite guests to take a bulb from the tree before the leave.  A nice parting gift containing your names, wedding date, and best wishes.

Finally, you can always use the tree as a gathering spot for your gifts.  Keep the decor simple and use what the season gives you.  You'll save lots of money.

Messages to Bride and Groom

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding...the regular blog written by a Father of the Bride and author of the books Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for more money-saving tips for a debt free life.

Couples who are looking for a fun and creative way to receive messages from their friends at the wedding reception might enjoy having a small dry erase board and markers at each table.  Guests can write down their thoughts, best wishes, humorous comments, and more.  And . . . if they don't like what they wrote the first time, they can erase and begin again.  Provide a board large enough for the whole table OR use one large dry erase board in a gathering area, or perhaps near the entrance or gift table.  (This is even less expensive!)

You may also include instructions for the dry erase board:  perhaps asking your guests to weigh in on the following:
* Offer your best marital advice
* What should we do in our first year?
* Name one place we should visit on our honeymoon

Places where you can find great deals on dry erase products would include Hobby Lobby, Michaels, or online at Oriental Trading.

Christmas for July

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father of the bride and author of the books Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for money-saving tips!

In the event that you are planning a summer wedding, don't overlook the money-saving deals that could be had by purchasing during the holiday season, or post-Christmas rush.  Many retailers put out some great deals during the holiday season, and by planning in advance, a bride can often land some fantastic deals.

Better yet, you can be ahead of the planning game and reduce a larger expenditure by assuming some of the cost in the present year. 

Watch for deals during the holidays on such things as wedding gowns and accessories, shoes, decorative items, lingerie, items on your gift list for kitchen and bath.  Many of these items, and more, can often be purchased for less in the month of December.

So, while you are doing your shopping . . . don't forget to plan ahead.  You might be able to buy now . . . and save a lot of money later.

Simple Wedding Decor

Welcome to Debt Free Wedding . . . the blog written by a father of the bride and author of the books Your Beautiful Wedding on Any Budget, 300 Debt Free Wedding Tips, and Before You Say "I Do".  Visit often for hundreds of helpful tips.

There are hundreds of ways to save money on wedding and reception decor, and one of the best ways is to create your own!  Great options here would include origami (you are limited only by your lack of creativity!), colorful wrapped boxes, craft displays, and even wall hangings or art.  Paper streamers and ribbons can also add a touch of color at a minimal cost.  And don't overlook paper flowers.

Need an affordable source of these products?  Try two:

Paper Source (www.paper-source.com) is a remarkable online and catalogue warehouse that carries anything paper-related . . . and much more.  The site also contains some excellent gift ideas for your bridal party that will not break your bank account.

Oriental Trading is another place where you can find great deals, huge selection, and all at a minimal cost. 

Both can deliver the goods directly to your door.  Peruse their sites and see what you can find that will help you save money!  And remember . . . you can create a debt free wedding.  Start your life together without the added burden of credit card debt and financial worries.  You may find that you are saving far more than money!