Weddings are expensive. How much so? The average affair in the United States is more than $18,000, according to BRIDES magazine. But luckily there are some creative budget savers to keep you (or your parents) from busting the bank, according to WeddingChannel.com and MSN Money.
- Receptions (food, music, venue) are about 50 percent of your total budget. To save money here, try for a less demanded day. Friday or Sunday weddings (instead of Saturday night), for instance, could save you big.
- Also, try for pasta and chicken entrées instead of beef and fish.
- Use flowers that are in season and locally available.
- Order all your printed materials together, and order extras just in case. Going back to the printer for just a few invitations could cost more than you think.
- Use a budgeting tool (many are found online) to keep track of your purchases. Set up an amount you want to spend before you actually start passing around the credit card.
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| You don't have to shovel out the money for a big-budgeted Hollywood wedding. Actor Kevin Costner and his bride Christine Baumgartner Saturday, Sept. 25, 2004 (AP Photo/Rogers & Cowan, Lara Porzak) |
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