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Cheap Wedding Ideas: 10 Wedding Planning Tips to Save on Your Wedding Day

Nobody really wants a "cheap" wedding, but smart brides plan on spending their money wisely, on things that matter most to them and their loved ones.

We asked Aimee Massaro of WISHES Concierge Services in Scarsdale to give us some ideas on how you can save money when planning your wedding. Here are 10 of Aimee's tips for watching your wedding budget.

Wedding Planning Budget Smarts

You’ve dreamed of your wedding day forever, but how long have you been saving your pennies for the big day? Not to worry, here are 10 ways to help keep your budget in line, while still having the wedding of your dreams.

1) Pick an off date or time.
There are just not enough Saturday nights in the week! Try working with a different day of the week – Friday night, Sunday brunch? How about a Thursday night or Saturday afternoon? Religious obligations may steer you in one direction or another, but moving away from a Saturday evening affair will give you extra money to splurge for an awesome honeymoon.

2) Pick an off month.
Sure, everyone dreams of being a June Bride, but a January through March bride will save a lot more money. By working with off months, many vendors (including caterers and musicians) will be a lot more flexible with their pricing. So, you may still have your Saturday night wedding, it just may need to be indoors! Think Winter Wonderland!

3) Choose a site that comes with everything.
You may think using a raw space, or even your own backyard will save you $$$, but in reality, the cost of all he rentals (tents, tables, chairs, linens, china, etc) will set you behind…never mind the additional stress headaches!

4) Skip the Favors
Your guests usually never use them and sure won’t miss them. Instead make a donation to a favorite charity. Many will provide you with simple notes for you to have at your guest’s place setting, just to let them know of your donation. Share your happiness with those less fortunate!

5) Tailor the Menu
Don’t assume a buffet will be less expensive. There may be less staff involved, but there is a lot more food, thus increasing the caterer’s costs and therefore your costs. An elegant seated luncheon or dinner of appetizer, salad, entrée and wedding cake will be plenty. If you have a sweet tooth – skip the salad and opt for an extra dessert.
Keep Cocktails simple. Your guests do not need a meal before a meal. An hors d’ouevres filled cocktail hour will be elegant and more than enough!

6) Borrow
Since you need something borrowed, perhaps borrow a headpiece from a sister or a friend. Remember, you are not going to wear it again.

7) Scale back on Flowers
Work with your florist from what is in season, rather than what is not…Reuse flowers from the ceremony at the reception for centerpieces, or around the cake.

8) Book short term
The closer out you book, the more flexible your vendors will be. A date that sits empty is lost forever, but a last minute booking can be golden for both them and you. If you can get your act together is less than six months, you will have a bargaining advantage.

9) Shop the Sample Sales for Your Dress
You may be able to get the designer dress of your dreams at a fraction of the cost!

10) Cut the guest list
How many long distance relatives and long ago friends do you need to invite? Share your day with those nearest and dearest to you only. It will be more meaningful, and you may actually have a chance to mingle with all your guests.

Wedding budget planning tips by Aimee Massaro of WISHES Concierge Services in Scarsdale, NY. 914-722-2040