This is the second part of my blog on how to plan a low cost wedding. It is too easy to lose sight of the main goal of the wedding – you. When asked what our “theme” is, my fiancé and I say “us.”
Negotiate with vendors. In this economy you have the perfect opportunity to negotiate. Your vendors want to charge top dollar because many couples will simply pay it. Don’t settle for “package deals” that include items you don’t want. For example, photographers will usually add on very expensive wedding albums and engagement sessions. Also watch photographers that force you to buy prints through their website. You could be charged $10 each for 4×6 prints you can order yourself for $0.85. Watch for hidden costs and make sure you understand the entire deal before you buy.
Get creative with gift giving. It may not be traditional to ask for cash as a wedding gift, but instead of registering for things you may not need, consider registering for larger token items. Many websites allow you to register for items such as your honeymoon rental car, your wedding photo album, or even contributions to a down payment on a house.
Remember, you do not have to stick with any tradition. Use the music, the food, and the atmosphere to give your guests a true taste of who you are, and it will be a memorable experience, no matter how much money you spend.
Enjoy!
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