If you’re planning a wedding, you’ve probably noticed something – it’s expensive. Like, really expensive. Weddings can be so costly that most couples rely on one or both sets of their parents for help footing all the bills. While once upon a time paying for a wedding was largely considered to be the responsibility of the father of the bride that time has long since passed for all but the wealthier families out there.
For the rest of us, paying for a wedding is usually a collaborative effort. And even still, paying for the reception of your dreams is a challenge for many brides. Some couples resort to living more frugal for the months (or years) leading up to their big day. Others take on second jobs. No matter what your financing methodology, though, you can probably do with some tips for saving a few bucks.
Even if you’re not actively planning a wedding right this second, there might be one further down the line in life, and it’s never too early to start learning how to save a few bucks when it comes time to planning your wedding day. So let’s get to the tips!
Go With Classy Napkins Rather Than Costly Tablecloths
Don’t get us wrong – we’re not saying to skip tablecloths entirely. Of course you need to have tablecloths, but do you really need them to be extremely expensive ones? How many people are even going to notice if you chose top-of-the-line tablecloths versus just “good” tablecloths? Draw your guests’ gaze to something else on the table, and the answer will probably be “not too many.”
The Knot recommends choosing more simple tablecloths and selecting fancy napkins instead. Every guest is going to touch the napkin, so they’re going to notice them anyway. Why not have them focus on how nice they are instead of how you overspent on tablecloths? Napkins are obviously cheaper than high-end tablecloths, and you’ll surely be adding glassware, plates, silverware and other pieces to the tables to distract guests from the tablecloths anyway.
Don’t Overdo It on Glassware
Speaking of glassware, that’s another area where you can save a few dollars by not splurging for the top of the line stuff. Don’t go overboard on all three glasses. Go with simple water and wine glasses and fancier champagne glasses or fancy wine and water glasses and more cost-friendly champagne glasses. This allows you to put some elegant glassware on the table without having to spend to the max on all three sets. Follow through by using simple glasses at the bar or save even more by using just one simple type of glass for all drinks.
Use 60-inch and/or 72-inch Tables Round Tables
Next up let’s consider the tables that all that glassware, cloth and napkins will sit on. You should go with 60-inch and 72-inch tables. These are not arbitrary sizes; they allow you to seat the most guests per table while simultaneously being more space effective than square and rectangular tables. For a more fun look, you can alternate between 60 and 72-inch sizes. For a more formal appearance, pick one size and stick with it.
Use Chairs With Two Purposes
Of course, tables aren’t just for sitting things on – they’re also for guests to sit around. And in addition to dinner your guests will also be sitting for your ceremony. Unless you’re getting married in a church/chapel (which will obviously have its own seating), choose a single type of chair and use it for both the ceremony and the reception. The costs for laborers to move the chairs from one location to the other for dinner will almost certainly be less than that of renting two entirely different sets of seats.
Stick With Bistro String Lights
Fact 1: tiny twinkling lights look fantastic, especially at weddings. Fact 2: bistro string lights are cheaper than large light fixtures and are able to create a more intimate and romantic atmosphere. Need we say more?
Find a Flexible Venue
Why do you want your venue to be flexible? Because having a flexible venue means that you’ll have the ability to have deliveries and pickups done at the most cost-effective times. Check ahead of time to see what your options are at the venues you’re considering.
Rent From Just One Vendor
More vendors, more problems, more money. It’s as simple as that. By keeping the number of vendors you’re using to a minimum you’ll be able to keep initial costs lower and will likely also save on delivery fees and taxes.
Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings
There’s one more way to save money without sacrificing on quality, but it comes way before the wedding. It’s the engagement ring! Choose a cubic zirconia engagement ring from Birkat Elyon and you’ll spend a fraction of the money you would on a real diamond while still getting a ring that shines every bit as brilliantly.