Archive for the ‘ DIY ’ Category

Thinking of turning your dream of starting a business into reality? You’re in good company. According to a 2006 Yahoo Inc. poll, two-thirds of Americans have entrepreneurial aspirations for reasons including the ability to do what they love and so they can be their own boss. User statistics from BizBuySell, Continue reading Part 2 of 5: How to Successfully Buy a Small Business

Over the past year, historically high levels of unemployment have left record numbers of highly-skilled individuals looking for work. This has caused many to ask themselves if now could be the right time to pursue their dream of buying a business and becoming their own boss. Continue reading Part 1 of 5: Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Small Business?

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!

Planning a wedding can be a very stressful endeavor, especially in this economy. Adding the word “wedding” to almost anything seems to immediately double the quoted price. I have been sticker shocked more times than I can count throughout my wedding planning process this year. Below are a few things I have learned that may help cut costs and in my next blog I will provide a few more helpful hints.

Think outside the box. Get creative. For example, instead of having your wedding at a hotel where they control the catering and charge you a per-head alcohol cost, maybe have an outdoor wedding at a private residence or venue that you rent, where you can control the costs. You can hire a less expensive caterer that you choose, and buy your alcohol in bulk.
What is most important to you on your wedding day? It is easy to get caught up and begin to strive unnecessarily for perfection. Ask yourself, what do I want out of my wedding day? For me, I want to have a day where I can have fun and connect with my friends and family, not give them the prefect meal or show them my decorating ability. Pick what is important to you and keep that in mind throughout the process.

Don’t get caught up in details. Most people at weddings don’t talk about the centerpieces, the token guest gifts, or the great the wall decorations. If you’re keeping costs law, try to keep it simple. With simplicity, you can really showcase your personality. Maybe use pictures of the bride and groom or family members as centerpieces, or simply a candle with flower petals. Use the money instead for vendors you really care about. For example I want amazing pictures more than amazing flowers.

Remember most importantly that your wedding is about you.

Why spend money when you can get stuff for free? Invite some friends over and swap things you no longer need.

Here’s the idea:

1) Everyone brings one full bag of stuff they no longer want. Decide on the size of bag –  a regular, brown grocery bag is probably the easiest.

2) Everything must be in excellent condition – completely usable. Clothes are best (who doesn’t want some “new” clothes?), but jewelry, books, games, household and kitchen items are OK too.

3) Depending on who’s invited you might want to choose a “main theme” such as “women’s clothing” or “kid’s clothing”.

4) Keep it simple for the host or hostess – everyone brings a dish to pass.

5) BYOB

6) Provide private space for people to try on “new” clothes.

7) Unless you set guidelines, recognize that some people will walk away with more items than others.

Have fun!

By the end of the party you should all have exchanged a bunch of stuff you weren’t using with “new to you” stuff you’ll eagerly use. And you spent the evening with friends. It’s a win-win-win idea.