| Your wedding is big day and it can be a big | | | | way to mingle and enjoy your guests company, |
| expense. If you want to have an elegant wedding | | | | but still save on dinner costs. Another money |
| but don't want to break the bank, here are a few | | | | saver can be celebrating your reception earlier in |
| simple tips to put your mind and wallet at ease. | | | | the day. If you've scheduled your ceremony for |
| Your guest list | | | | the morning, send your guests a wedding brunch |
| One of the easiest ways to save money when | | | | invitation or even a wedding lunch invitation. Since |
| planning your wedding is limiting your guest list. A | | | | venues and caterers are busiest in the evening, |
| small wedding can be just as elegant as a big, | | | | you may be able to negotiate a better rate for |
| grand affair. Invite only family, close friends and | | | | an off-time event. |
| the wedding party for an intimate party. The rest | | | | Lunches and brunches will also save you on bar |
| of your guest list can receive an elegant wedding | | | | costs, since many won't be drinking in the morning |
| announcement. Don't fret about sending a | | | | or afternoon. A lunch or brunch event can easily |
| wedding announcement. It is perfectly acceptable | | | | sneak by with champagne as the only alcoholic |
| to send an announcement. Your decision to have | | | | beverage. You can also save money on an |
| a small wedding should be respected by everyone. | | | | evening reception bar by limiting what you are |
| Invitations | | | | serving. Many wedding receptions offer only beer, |
| Typical wedding invitations can run anywhere | | | | wine, champagne and soft drinks for guests. Save |
| from $3-$5 per invitations to beyond $20. Fancy | | | | money and skip the liquor; your guests will still |
| folds, fonts and printing can cause these costs to | | | | enjoy themselves. |
| add up quickly. But there is an inexpensive | | | | Details |
| answer. Consider do-it-yourself wedding kits. | | | | While there are no 'small' details when it comes to |
| Many, many brides have saved and shined with | | | | your wedding, you can save money at every |
| do-it-yourself wedding invitations. These kits are | | | | turn. Many brides have turned to E-bay or a |
| elegant and can be personalized by you for a | | | | consignment shop to save on their wedding dress. |
| special touch. DIY wedding kits are the answer if | | | | Your centerpieces can be as simple as Gerber |
| you're interested in saving money. Most kits | | | | Daisy with a floating candle in a low vessel. And |
| include the wedding invitation, save the date card | | | | often, photography students can photograph your |
| and reply cards, so all you need is your personal | | | | wedding - and create some amazing photos - for |
| touch and you're on your way. | | | | much less. If all else fails, ask your vendors for a |
| Reception | | | | discount. |
| Your wedding reception can be the most costly | | | | There are tons of ways to save and still make an |
| part of your wedding day. But there are many | | | | elegant impact. Ask your friends and family who |
| ways you can save and still have an elegant | | | | they can recommend, you just might find a great |
| reception. Consider sending your wedding | | | | deal where you least expect it. Most of all, when |
| invitations for a 'cocktail reception.' This indicates | | | | it's all said and done, make sure you have a great |
| to your guests that you will be serving cocktails | | | | time and enjoy your big day. |
| and light snacks, but not dinner. This is a great | | | | |