The 10 Money-Saving Hacks All Brides Should Know
Let's talk about wedding budgeting. Okay, okay, we know money talk isn't always fun - but hear us out. Today we're telling you about a few ways to save for your big day... without cutting out the things you love. With the help of our friends at Total Wine & More, we're providing you with 10 spending hacks to know on everything from ceremony flowers to stocking the reception bar. Trust us when we say your bank account will be happy you gave this one a look over!
1. Buy a pre-owned dress.
Going wedding dress shopping is super exciting. But those butterflies might fade once you take a look at the tags on your favorite selections. Our advice? Head over to a quality, pre-owned wedding dress site (we love this one) to scoop up your #dreamdress for a fraction of the price. (Psst! Many sites will even let you arrange a meeting in person to try on the dress before you buy!).
2. Do a consultation before stocking your bar.
Let's face it — booze is one of the most $$$ parts of a wedding. Before you consider breaking the bank to serve your fiance's favorite drink, set up a consultation to map your liquor out. At Total Wine & More, they'll provide you with a customized menu tailored to the size, taste, and — most importantly — budget of your event. So no more guesstimating (or overspending!).
3. Go with "faux" calligraphy.
You've always *dreamed* of having a stationery suite completely with delicate, hand-addressed calligraphy. However, when it comes to paying for this special touch, it'll cost above and beyond your allotted funds. Our tip to still get this tailored look you love is to choose a digital, scripted font that looks like the real deal. It'll still give off the same vibe you're going for without the extra cost behind it.
4. Send invites digitally.
Speaking of invites, consider cutting costs even more by sending out your RSVPs digitally. In addition to saving on stamps and stationery, you'll be able to track all your attendee's responses online more easily. Check out Zola.com for some truly gorgeous options!
5. Schedule your wedding on a Friday or Sunday.
Cost-savvy brides are smart to steer clear of a Saturday night wedding to get the most bang for their buck. Most spaces and vendors offer lower rates on these off-days, especially if you do some negotiating. Still set on Saturday? Consider doing a morning ceremony followed by a brunch for a more affordable soiree. (We have a feeling Total Wine & More has some awesome breakfast drink ideas up their sleeves...!)
6. Use food trucks for a fun take on dining!
Second to the drink expense comes feeding your attendees. Rather than the traditional plated or buffet option, one idea we're loving lately is using food trucks for entrees. This novel take on dinner will feel like a treat for guests while giving you more control over how much you're spending to feed them!
7. Host signature drinks instead of an open bar.
We're just chock-full of drink ideas to help you save! This next one is a much-loved one by brides — hosting signature drinks, in lieu of an open bar. Rather than giving attendees free rein at the bar, guests can have the option of sipping on creatively-named cocktails for free, or pay out of pocket for something different. It's their choice! Hint: Before deciding on what you're serving, we recommend using the drink calculator over at Total Wine & More to determine just how much you'll be spending.
8. Repurpose your blooms.
Flowers are oh-so-lovely, but also oh-so-spendy. Our trick to getting the most bloom for your buck is to repurpose them. For example, the bridal party bouquets can be used as centerpieces at the head table and floral arrangements in the ceremony space can be installed as decor around the reception. In this case, no buds go to waste!
9. Forgo the DJ or band.
Here's some good news: You can still get the tunes you want at your wedding, without paying for a band or DJ. Simply put together a playlist of your favorite songs (or crowdsource for 'em in your invitations) and put a friend or relative in charge of manning the music for the evening. Simple as that!
10. Return excess liquor.
Did you know you can get money back for the booze you don't use? Talk about one awesome refund. At Total Wine & More you can return any unopened wine, beer, or spirits after the event*. (Now, if only the same policy applied to all those uneaten slices of cake!) ___ Already feeling better about budgeting for your big day? You go girl! Head over to our site for more tips and tricks on saving for your celebration, and then make a visit to Total Wine & More to get all your drink questions answers for your big event. *Only in states where allowable by law – check with your local Total Wine & More store for details.
