I LOVE THIS TOPIC. Someday I'd like to own my own business and be a wedding consultant.
Here are just a few ideas on ways to save money...
Invitations
One of my sorority sisters did her own invitations. She bought some of that see-through paper and a solid print paper to go behind. She then put the two together and paper hole punched them and tied a simple ribbon to attatch the pieces together. It was SO super classy looking yet saved her a lot of money.
Gifts...not yours though
I have heard that a lot of people find themselves thinking they need to buy EVERYONE and their mother a gift for being in their wedding. Not true. My cousin's wife did a nice job of presenting gifts to us for being in her wedding. I did not expect anything as I was just the lector. However she presented me with a simple candle and candle holder. The candle was the same color that she used for her wedding too, so it tied in beautifully. Perfect gift but not a fortune. You get the point.
Beverages
I've heard different views on alcoholic beverages at the reception. I know of couples who have paid a fortune because of an open bar and others who haven't. Personally I like what my cousin and his wife did. My aunt and uncle paid for a certain amount of drinks. Because they knew who all was attending the reception after the RSVP, they handed out 'drink tickets' which allowed so many beverages. The bar at the reception understood the rules and was great about their approach. After your tickets were gone it was up to you to buy the rest of your drinks. I think it worked great.
Things NOT to skimp on
I agree with all of the above. Your guest's happiness will make or break your wedding. I agree that food is important but NOT as important as the music and the photographer. Personally I put the photographer ABOVE all. This is the person who will capture your memories, who will be working with you personally to make sure everything looks right, etc. I've heard horror stories of couples that had terrible pictures and had to redue their wedding day. Now who wants stress and tears like that.
Well best of luck and I'll post more if I hear other great ideas.
Good luck,
Hootie
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What do you get when you cross and Alpha Omicron Pi and a Sigma Phi Epsilon? A beautiful Chi Omega!!!
http://www.unomaha.edu/~comega
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