It’s the perfect day for a wedding: there’s good food, friends and family, and two people who couldn’t be happier to make their vows. The only problem is that weddings don’t come cheap; it would probably do most couples some good if they saved up earlier before getting hitched.
Here are seven ways to save and plan for a wedding:
1. Make a Realistic Budget
One of the most important things to do when planning a wedding is to set up a solid and reasonable budget. Every couple has to determine how much they should spend on their wedding day, from catering costs down to the flowers. It’s best to stick to that amount while keeping spending reigned in.
2. Get a Loan
If your budget is a bit tight, it’s time to get personal loans. This is one of the most cost-efficient ways to pay for a wedding. You can get a loan at virtually any bank, and they typically offer more than decent interest rates, which you’ll be able to pay off with ease after you’re married.
3. Pay as You Go
When you are planning a wedding, there is no big upfront cost involved — you pay as you go. This means not paying the venue before the actual date of the event. That way, you won’t have to worry about carrying too much debt on your shoulders should something go wrong with the plans.
4. Negotiate When Hiring Vendors
There is a big difference between fixed costs and percentage costs — learn how to spot them. For example, if you have a venue that charges $4,000, you know you’ve already spent half your budget. Percentage costs are much easier to deal with because they give you the option of haggling — so be sure to take advantage of them when hiring vendors.
5. Plan Everything in Advance
Another good way to save money is to plan everything in advance. There’s no such thing as too early when it comes to getting married; if anything, you will be able to save money and do everything you envisioned when you set out to plan your wedding.
This way, you won’t have to worry about hiring last-minute vendors or paying extra for deliveries that were supposed to be free. Just plan ahead, and you surely won’t regret it later on.
6. Cut Down on Extras
A big wedding doesn’t necessarily mean a great one — so cut down on the extras. The less you spend on things like flowers, the more money you will have to set aside for other areas of your big day. You can still plan an amazing wedding without having to hire extra photographers or buy decorations.
7. Shop Around for the Best Deals
Always shop around when looking for deals — weddings are no exception. You can get a lot of great deals from companies that specialize in catering, invitations, and other wedding items simply by asking around and doing some research.
If you’re going to spend a decent amount of money on your big day, it’s best to make sure the quality is worth the price tag — that way; there’ll be more for you to spend on things like travel for your honeymoon.
8. Get a Second Job
What would you do if you had a little extra cash in your pockets? For most people, the answer is to spend it on something they’ve been dying to get.
Before getting married, however, it’s best that you save up for things like a down payment for an apartment or a house — that way, there won’t be any money problems after your big day. You should also set aside some money for emergencies should anything go wrong.
9. Think of a Wedding as an Investment
One of the best ways to save for a wedding is to think of it as an investment. You’ll be spending a lot of money on your big day, but that’s only because you’re essentially investing in the event that will help you achieve some savings goals in the future.
In this case, investing in a simple yet elegant wedding is much better than splurging on something extravagant and over-the-top. There’s no need for such extravagance when talking about weddings. A balance must be struck, however, so try not to go too bare-bones either; keep everything light and simple and enjoy your special day!
It’s safe to say that weddings are one of the most expensive events to put together; therefore, it’s best if you prepare carefully and stay frugal when planning such an event.
