Your first step down the aisle

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It's never to early to start shopping for gifts,favors or anything else you may need, espeicaly after the holidays. I saved tons of money this way.
SHIRLENE F.
The best way to save is to be very realistic with your budget and to do your best to not go over what you really can afford. Planning in advance is very helpful to set specific goals along the way. Set aside a certain funds per month/week that will go directly into the cost of your wedding. Realize that a wedding is made to last, so that means not just preparing for the moment, but for all of your days in this life. * Most important tip, you can never have enough prayer because HE will always make a way.
Yvonne O.
The best way to save on a wedding is to make your own bouquets and to get married at a wedding chapel. Also, you could have a small ceremony with your immediate family, and have your family bring a dish for the meal.
Barbara P.
My bridesmaids are spread out through the USA right now, so to take full advantage of that I have them constantly looking for bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses that not only look great but are cost friendly. The more research I seem to be doing, the more price cutting I find. Another big tip is to buy in bulk. Nobody will know if it came from Walgreens or a high end gallery!!
Brittany K.
Don't mention "wedding" when you're talking to vendors about prices. If you tell them you're throwing a "big party" (which you are!), prices are a lot lower than if you actually say you're having a wedding reception.
Lauren M.
Carry a stick of white chalk with you on the day of the ceremony to cover any spots that may get on your gown.
Alfred Angelo
Be open to many suggestions before making a decision. Dont have your heart set too fast on something because it may be too pricey and you dont want to blow your budget too early. It may help cut costs down in the long run.
Melissa V.
Visualize yourself at your reception when trying on dresses. This will help you see if it is the right dress.
Jennifer D
It’s nice to have a second opinion. Bring one or two trusted friends or family members to shop with you for added support. Also remember, more is NOT merrier. Bringing too many people with you can get confusing. Everyone has an opinion!
Alfred Angelo
Purchase fresh flowers from a wholesale mart and have close family and friends make-up the boutonnieres for the Groomsmen and relatives. Purchase fresh Roses from a wholesaler and make your own bridal bouquet with matching smaller bridesmaid bouquet and tie the stems with 1" satin ribbons that you can purchase from craft store either by the foot or by the roll.
Keara V.
The best way to save on your wedding is do your own stationary. I did my own programs, invitations, and escort cards and they came out fabulous.
Elika E.
Instead of buying expensive floral centerpieces, make your own! For example: if planning a beach themed wedding, buy hurricane jars and fill them part way with sand and place a pillar candle in the sand. You can scatter shells around the candle and on the table to extend the theme.
Kelly G.
Try to use handmade items in exchange for paying top dollar for the small things in your wedding.
Madelaine E.
Try buying wedding decorations at a dollar store. Not only will you save money, but they always have different items in stock!
Amanda B
To offset the cost of a wedding, ask your family and friends who have their own business to sponsor a portion of the wedding, and in return, you can advertise their business on the the back of your wedding program. (For example: I asked a friend who is a wedding coordinator to allow me to use her services and vendors in exchange for advertisement, she agreed and so far, we've saved over $2500. We have another friend who is a professional photographer who gave us our engagement photos as a gift. My brother--a professional DJ--is doing the reception as a gift, and my friend is making all the jewelry for my bridesmaids at no cost to me. What's great about all of this is that in the long run everyone wins. The bride and groom save money and your friends and family get more business.
Christina S.
Cut down on the cost of décor by having your wedding in a garden. It will also make a great place to have your photographs done.
Miranda D
For a very reasonable price for reception location or wedding location, check out the recreation center or local parks. They are a beautiful location and aren't very expensive! Great for pictures!
lisa j.
Your bridesmaids are called "maids" for a reason! Delegate some jobs and tasks to them, it will clear up your schedule and your head!
Molly W
Buy after Holiday clearance, Christmas especially. You can find a plethora of ribbon, sheer garland, bows, etc. I have 7 colors in my wedding and have been able to find most of my tablecloths, ribbon, candle holders, table setting, etc in the after Holiday clearance section. After Easter is great for pastels, Valentines is great for red, etc. :o) Hope this helps!
Cari H.
When choosing your bridesmaid dresses, try to pick different shades of the color you want for their dresses. That's another way to be unique and fun.
Mayra D.