6 Ways To Have Your Dream Wedding Without Blowing All Your Money

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1. Buy a sheet cake in addition to your regular cake.

Some modern couples are choosing to create dessert tables instead of going with a traditional wedding cake. They might spread out cookies or donuts. Or they might serve ice cream or sushi.

If you don’t want to sacrifice a cake cutting picture, you can still save money. Instead of getting a huge cake that can feed all of your guests, you can buy a smaller, cheaper one that looks good for photos. Once you cut out the first slice, the rest of the cake will be cut behind the scenes so no one will even notice that they’re eating from a sheet cake instead.

2. Use digital invitations. 

You wouldn’t think invitations would be that big of a deal, but you’re going to be sending out dozens of them. That means you’re going to be purchasing dozens of stamps.

And if you’re choosing to send out save the dates or invitations to an engagement party, bridal shower, or bachelorette party, then you’re going to buy even more invitations and stamps. You can save yourself the trouble (and the money) by inviting your friends to RSVP over your wedding website. Everyone is online nowadays, anyway.

3. Choose any other day than Saturday.

Prices can skyrocket, based on which day of the week you choose to hold your wedding. You can still give your out-of-town guests travel time by holding the ceremony on a Sunday. Or you can give your party animal friends a chance to get wasted without worrying about work the next day by holding it on a Friday.

4. DIY your decorations.

You don’t want to DIY everything because weddings are stressful enough and you don’t want too much on your plate. But you can always DIY here and there. Make your own centerpieces. Make your own welcome signs. Make your own arch.

You and your future spouse can work together on these projects in order to bring you closer together — and save money in the process.

5. Shop at trunk shows.

If you’re struggling to fine a wedding dress in your price range, you don’t have to settle for something mediocre. As long as you start your search early, you’ll have time to look around — and to visit plenty of trunk shows.

Trunk shows are events where designers will show off their merchandise. If you buy your dress at one, you might get a discounted price. Or you might get a discount on your alterations. It never hurts to check!

6. Be careful about your date and your guest list.

The same venue is going to cost you a completely different amount in December as it would in August. If you’re flexible with your date, then you should think about holding your wedding during the off-season. That way, you won’t have to pay as much for the same exact thing you would be getting a few months later.

It’s the same when it comes to your guest lists. You’re paying per head, so the more people you invite, the more money you’re going to have to spend. That’s why you should think twice before inviting every childhood friend and extended family member. You might want to keep things intimate to keep prices realistic.