{"id":8544,"date":"2013-12-16T15:21:59","date_gmt":"2013-12-16T20:21:59","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.topweddingsites.com\/wedding-blog\/?p=8544"},"modified":"2014-05-10T06:31:57","modified_gmt":"2014-05-10T10:31:57","slug":"how-to-cut-wedding-costs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.topweddingsites.com\/wedding-blog\/wedding-planning\/how-to-cut-wedding-costs","title":{"rendered":"How to Cut Wedding Costs"},"content":{"rendered":"

The average wedding costs somewhere around 28,000 dollars, but smart couples know there are always ways to trim the fat. The key is to put the money where it matters most without losing any of the special touches. Here is how budget-friendly Cinderella can still have her dream wedding.<\/p>\n

\"Wedding

Pick the Best Date<\/h2>\n

Ever notice there are right and wrong times to plan a vacation — the same is true for weddings. Picking the right month and day of the week adds up to big savings. For example, avoid getting hitched during the peak spring months. Instead, look for a day in late summer or winter when the wedding venues are hungry for business.<\/p>\n

You reduce the budget even further by getting married on Friday or Sunday. Those are the least popular days of the week to book a wedding. If you schedule the reception in the afternoon, you save more still. When negotiating with a venue, discuss what days offer the lowest rate.<\/p>\n

Look for All-Inclusive Packages<\/h2>\n

The right location will cover the catering, guest stays, drinks, flowers for the reception and maybe even the music. This is especially critical if planning a destination wedding. You want to book a resort or banquet hall to get everything for one price. If you opt for a restaurant private room, you will pay for everything separate including service. All-inclusive is the way to save both time and money when planning your wedding.<\/p>\n

Keep the Bridal Party Small<\/h2>\n

This cuts back on the floral bill. If you have five bridesmaids plus the maid of honor, you need seven bouquets. That doesn’t even cover all the corsages and boutonnieres. You can save hundreds on flower costs by choosing a smaller bridal party. You can nix the usher’s as well to save on extra boutonnieres.<\/p>\n

Limit the Bar Selection<\/h2>\n

Cut back on bar costs by eliminating top-shelf and premium liquors. Wine, beer and maybe one or two specialty cocktails are plenty. This not only lowers the drink tab, but it makes the job easier for the bartender. A full bar for a large reception might require at least two bartenders but eliminating cocktails may mean one can manage.<\/p>\n

Avoid the Fancy Appetizers<\/h2>\n

Sure, offering mini quiches and salmon mousse sounds fancy but maybe a cold bar with cheeses would be enough. You can pick specialty meats such as bruschetta for less and still look just as sophisticated. Ask for a simple cold appetizer spread and cut the food cost by about 10 dollars a person.<\/p>\n

Go for the Food Knockoffs<\/h2>\n

No one will notice if the reception dinner is four-star instead of five. You can choose taste-alike options to cut costs without the guests knowing they are eating and drinking for less.<\/p>\n