Family & Pets

It is easier to have a frugal wedding with a small guest list. Invite only close friends and family. Don't feel obligated to invite work colleagues, extended family, dates for single people or people you haven't seen or talked to in years. The smaller the guest list, the cheaper … [Read more...] about For a more affordable wedding, keep the guest list small

Consider having a florist make just a bridal bouquet, then have the bridesmaids carry fans, parasols or simple cut flowers. Instead of professional flower arrangements on all the tables, try small votive tea lights on top of mirrors, or simple cut flowers in glass vases. For a … [Read more...] about Be selective about flowers and fancy decorations to save money on a wedding reception

Some photographers offer full service editing, retouching, photo albums, and so on. It might be cheaper to find one who will just shoot, and give you the raw footage, or who will shoot and retouch just a certain number of photos. This is especially useful for people who have the … [Read more...] about Look for photographers who price a la carte, or keep it in the family

Champagne has to come from Champagne, France, in order to have that special name. But many sparkling wines are just as good, for half the price. Ask for recommendations from local wine sellers. Likewise, if you are supplying your own liquor, or if your reception hall offers … [Read more...] about Don’t pay for overly fancy drinks and food

Gone are the days when big DJ companies were necessary for weddings. Instead, see if the reception venue has a good sound system where you can plug in your iPod/MP3 player. Then, pre-program your wedding music and just let it run on the day. Ask a friend to be the MC to announce … [Read more...] about Be your own wedding DJ or band