Wedding Plans – Save Money Chicago
By: Couples Counseling Staff
Getting married is a cherished milestone for many couples, and the greatest expression of their love and commitment to each other. But few realize how easy it is to save money on their wedding, no matter how extravagant or frugal their plans. And believe it or not, the topic of wedding planning comes up a lot during premarital counseling with our Chicago based clients.
Any couple willing to follow the advice below can cut their wedding costs without compromising their dreams for their big day.
1. Set a realistic budget
Perhaps the most important part of creating a dream wedding is budgeting. This means working with your spouse-to-be and setting a realistic budget. This part of the process takes time and effort but is well worth it if done far in advance. It’s also a great “first financial” activity for couples related to money.
2. Rely on friends
Friends are a valuable resource, and couples that rely on them can save a lot on their wedding. In fact, many thrifty couples ask their loved ones to provide flowers, catering, and other critical services instead of traditional wedding gifts. Your friends and family will be happy to help you, and the time you share will make your wedding day even more special.
3. Choose the right venue
Wedding venues vary widely in price, depending on many factors, including their popularity, location, and amenities. But too many couples look only at the asking price and miss out on the perfect venue. Instead, you should always check several options before committing, keeping in mind the unique perks each one offers. See our page on Chicago wedding venues here.
Although traditional venues, such as churches and wedding halls, are still a popular choice for couples, finding an unconventional site for your wedding or reception is a fun way to spend time with your future spouse. It can also save you a surprising amount of money. Parks, courthouses, college campuses, and private homes are all picturesque and unique options, and are usually cheaper than traditional venues.
4. Rent, don’t buy
Buying new dresses, suits, and other formal wedding attire is too expensive for many couples; what they don’t seem to realize is that they can save money by renting. The wedding party can even borrow from family and friends.
A bride wearing her mother’s wedding dress is an especially popular choice among frugal brides, and can add nostalgia to an already memorable occasion. Flowers are another popular rental option, and can easily save you thousands of dollars if you plan an extravagant wedding.
5. Don’t use traditional rings
People usually imagine gold and diamonds when they think of traditional wedding rings. But many couples can’t afford these pricey materials. Alternatives such as stainless steel, tungsten, and semiprecious gems are becoming more popular. If you do want such precious gems as diamonds and rubies, you can save money by either using smaller natural stones or buying less-expensive artificial stones instead.
6. Have a creative honeymoon
Honeymoons can easily cost thousands of dollars, especially if you stay in a nice hotel or do a lot of long-distance traveling. But you can save a substantial amount of money if you plan your honeymoon carefully. Save on travel costs by using a local venue, such as a picturesque bed and breakfast. To save even more, some couples spend the first few days of their lives together at a friend’s home, or choose to spend their honeymoon enjoying nature at their favorite state park or national forest.
7. Skip the party
Many thrifty couples choose not to throw pricey bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and other festivities. But this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice having fun with friends and family to celebrate your wedding day. Sharing an intimate, home-cooked meal, for example, is a great alternative and lets everyone have a good time without being forced to pay for venues, formal clothing, or gifts.
You should never feel obligated to spend your own hard-earned money on celebrations just to follow tradition or relieve family pressure. Remember, your wedding is your special day; always do what’s best for you and your future spouse.
Your wedding is one of the most important events in your life, and it is a time for celebrating and creating cherished memories with the people you love most. Your focus should be on having the wedding you’ve always dreamed of, not your budget.
