How to save money on weddings..

*Photo by Daniel Devine*

The most important thing you can do is Prioritize!!!!

Communicte with your fiance & Come up with a reasonable budget. Don't forget, if you have family who wants to help, get specifics on how they can help & factor that into your total budget. And don't over do it, no one wants to go into debt just to get wedding. Be wise! After the budget is decided, create a priority list. 1. being must have and 10. being something you want but not necessarily needed (or something you have chosen to have but wont spend much on). This way, you know where the majority or your budget is going and why? For example: 1. Venue, 2. Food & beverage, 3. flowers.. etc.

Now, together, make your guestlist; because you are working with a minimal budget you might want to include an RSVP. This is so you know your exact head count.

Next, Decided if you want an indoor/ outdoor wedding. Wedding venues vary in price, depending on size and accommodations. The least expensive way to go is definitely indoors. Think about choosing a venue that provides food, beverage, table/ chairs and linens. Then, you only have to worry about decor. One other thing you can do, when choosing the venue, is to pick one with a great scenery or somewhat pre-decorated to cut back on flowers and decor. If you are artistic, maybe you and a group of friends can make your own centerpieces, favors and bouquets to save money.

Hiring someone for each process can become expensive, but if you have friends and family willing to donate time and energy, take advantage of it. Also, look into your contacts, friends, acquaintances, find out who you know, maybe a someone who cooks for large events or someone who bakes cakes because you never know what you already have access to within your own network.

Lastly, if you decide to do all of this yourself to cut back on expenses, you may also want to think about hiring an event/ wedding planner just for the day of know as, a "Day of Coordinator". Like LeSoiree, many planners include a 'day of coordinator", which is basically what it sounds like. A coordinator who comes in the day of to take charge and facilitate the ceremony and some of the reception. This is a great idea for someone who wants to enjoy "their big day", instead of working to make sure everything goes as planned.

I hope you enjoyed our ideas and whether you are that type of person who wants someone to just do it all for you, or only needs help on the big day, keep us in mind. We will make all your dreams come true and have all your guests leaving in awe.

- K.Zaid

LeSoiree Event Planning