Courthouse or Traditional Wedding?

I have worked with brides and researched a lot of trends in the wedding industry and I wanted to drop some advice for all the soon to be brides. I have noticed that a lot of brides put off their wedding date or try to lowball wedding vendors or venues because of money issues. I would like to give a piece of advice to all those who are seeking to save money for their big day.

1. Limit your guest list

Limiting the amount of people on your guest list can save you thousands of dollars and you can also invest more money into the things that you really want for your big day. Your wedding day should be shared with those closest to you and those you plan on talking to after the wedding. If you're spending big money on your day, you want it to be shared with those that mean the most to you and have invested in your lives.

2. Set a reasonable budget

Research vendors and their costs and set a budget that you and your fiance can both agree with that works with all the elements you want to include on your special day. Setting a $5,000 budget for a 250 person wedding with a Gatsby theme is not reasonable- you are spending less than $20 a person. You must include things like catering, linen rentals, decor, rings, dress, suit, etc in your overall budget and these things start to add up quickly.

3. Consider a courthouse wedding

If you can't afford a traditional wedding, don't get bent out of shape. After all, the most important things is having a healthy marriage after the wedding. Consider getting married at the justice of the peace. It's less than one hundred dollars! You can still dress up, have a best man/maid of honor, have a bouquet, take pictures, have rings etc. You could also have a belated reception up to 6 months after the wedding. If you still want a traditional wedding consider having one a few years down the line after you tie the knot at the JOP once you have enough saved up.

4. Consider DIY techniques

There are so many sites where you can plan an entire wedding using do it yourself techniques. Plus, you can save tons of money in the long run. For example you could make your own bridal bouquets using faux flowers which could save you tons of money. (There are video tutorials on this). So research some different things you can do and start planning.

5. Hire a wedding planner

Wedding planners often have connections with venues and vendors and may be able to connect your with resources that can help you stay within your budget. Find a planner that you like and that you can afford. After all, they will save you tons of time and money in the long run!