Is the Economy changing your wedding plans?

The average wedding cost in 2009 was $28,385. This average is less than a 5% decrease than 2008 weddings.

Most 2010 brides are cutting back in several ways, but they are still planning a wedding that will be unforgetable! Know where to cut and where to spend!

Here are some ways to cut costs without cutting quality:

Rethink the guest list

Invite close family and friends. Don't feel obligated to invite distant relatives that you're not close to. It's also OK to not invite co-workers that you don’t regularly hang out with.

Floral

Use more candles and fewer flowers. Use smaller containers, which require fewer flowers to fill. Ask your florist which flowers will give you the same look for less.

Alcohol

Give fewer options- beer, wine, signature drink. Open the bar after dinner to minimize the amount of time guests are drinking.

Music
Fewer musicians costs less money. Hire one string (harp or violin) rather than a trio or quartet. Select a band with fewer members. Have the band start after dinner is served to minimize the amount of time they are on your money clock.

Linens and chairs
Have a love of specialty linens and chavari chairs? Use them sparingly. Use them for the head tables only rather than on every table.

Play the numbers
Who says you have to have one per person? Not every guest will take a program or even a favor. Rule of thumb is to have programs for 75% and favors for 85%. By the time you’re ready to leave, many of your guests will have already left. Provide send away items (birdseed, bubbles) for 75% of your RSVP.

Don't nix the coordinator!
I may be a little biased, but seriously- do hire a coordinator. A professional coordinator will save you time and money. They have connections and knowledge that will save you money. Often their knowledge can save you their fee!

You can have a beautiful wedding, even on a budget!

Planner Girl:)