2010-02-24 07:00:00 by SMARTBRIDE
Wedding Advice: How can we save during the recession without looking cheap?
While the recession hit everyone hard, and where it hurts, it's important to remember that people still continue to get married. Even during the Great Depression marriages happened. The wedding market, while not completely unscathed, wasn't hit as hard by the most recent recession as other industries.
What this means to brides and grooms is that from a cost-savings perspective, using the recession as a negotiating factor with vendors won't always work. Instead, focus on the services and products you want and match your needs to your budgets.
Here's an example:
Let's say you're a bride who wants an all white wedding and you think you're being smart choosing a winter time wedding. After all, you think you'll save on décor. With that in mind, you choose a banquet hall that has beige walls and start your planning
Problem # 1: Your banquet hall! The colour theme in the hall will actually take more finances to hide/redecorate than simply choosing a venue that already matches your colour scheme. If the venue you love doesn't match your theme then choose another theme! It'll be much more cost effective.
Problem # 2: Your décor. While winter is a great time to go all white, remember that snow creates slush which ultimately looks muddy and dirty. While this may not directly affect your table linen (for example), it can create concerns for decorators setting up your event and transporting items to your venue. Guests may inadvertently "muck up" your décor!
So, how can you have the wedding of your dreams on a realistic and recession crunched budget line?
Simple, just be realistic! If you only have a $20,000 budget then you shouldn't invite 400 guests. If you envision a grand ballroom at the top of the city, with amazing vantage points and exceptional food and beverages, don't expect it to cost less than $200+ per person!
Here are some other simple steps to help you get what you want within your budget:
- Research: Find out what local brides are spending and where.
- Hire a Planner: Someone with connections and experience can show you how and where to save and splurge.
- Network: Who do you already know? Caterers? Florists? Friends who have been married? Utilize these people for referrals.
- Negotiate: While discounts may not always be possible, additional items or add-ons can save you a lot in the long run.
- Read the Fine Print: Avoid hidden hosts, look for loop holes, and assess how much a product or service is actually worth to you before you sign anything.
Happy Planning,
Crystal Adair-Benning
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About our Guest Blogger: Crystal Adair-Benning
Distinct Occasions is a proud boutique Wedding Planning firm based in Toronto, Canada, but with satellite offices in Glasgow, Scotland and soon Perth, Western Australia! Providing worldly inspired, creative, detailed, luxurious and intimate weddings, Crystal and her team will help you get the "ohhh" and "awww" for your special day.
More Distinct Occasions Wedding Advice from Crystal:
- How can I personalize my wedding without it looking like everyone else's "personalized wedding"?
- What are the upcoming trends in colour? Should I look to them or avoid them?
- My bridal party is all different shapes & sizes. How can I find a look that flatters them all?
