Q: “Jen, I’m sure you’re planning with your budget in mind. But my guess is you’re not willing to compromise on style either. Can you share any tricks or tips?”
A: Everyone wants their wedding day to be perfect, but you do have to be realistic. It's hard when you realize it's not always economical to have the exact wedding you've dreamed of. Here are a few ways to deal with it:
Keep Your Guest List Small
This will help you save on everything -- food and drink, flowers, invitations, you name it. You really don't need to invite your best friend from fifth grade who you haven't seen in years.
Ask Your Friends and Family for Help
Maybe your maid of honor can make the invitations for you, or maybe she knows a friend of a friend who’s a great florist. Keep networking -- you'll be surprised how many people can help.
Work With Your Fiance to Prioritize
Decide what matters most to both of you and you'll find things you can cut back on in order to splurge on the things you really want.
Negotiate With Vendors
Let’s be honest. With the state of the economy, they
can't afford to have you use another vendor, so chances are they’ll be more willing to negotiate to fit your needs. Just be sure to stay flexible on your end. (If they can get you a better deal on tulips rather than the lilies you've always wanted, go with the tulips!)
Skimp on the Rehearsal Dinner
Your guests will be treated to a great dinner at the reception. Do something more casual and fun. Joe and I are having our rehearsal dinner at a Chicago pizza place!
Jen Schefft is the author of Better Single Than Sorry: A No-Regrets Guide to Loving Yourself and Never Settling.
Got a burning question for Jen? Ask now!
-- Jen Schefft
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