Spouse: someone who'll stand by you through all the trouble you wouldn't have had if you'd stayed single. Author Unknown
Planning a Wedding on a Budget
Planning a wedding on a budget can be a challenge but it can also be a lot of fun. There are many, many ways to cut corners without looking like you're cutting corners. For example, design and print your own wedding invitations and thank you notes. You can even print a checklist off of the computer to help keep you in line and to keep everything organized. List everything you will be spending money on and develop a budget. Do stick to it and try to stay under it.
If you make the food yourself, you'll save a bundle. That includes the cake. You can find beautiful, easy to make cakes in magazines and on the internet that will rival even the most expensive wedding cake. Not only will you save money, but you'll have a ball doing it. When you're planning a wedding on a budget the key is to plan ahead and get organized.
When you're planning a wedding on a budget, you'll find yourself just shaking your head at some of the prices being charged for things like mint and nut cups. This should be one of the easiest, most frugal details to take care of. Imagination is the key here. You need a container to hold mints and one to hold nuts. It doesn't have to be crystal. Find something that matches your personality. It will be fun being a little different.
Use candles for centerpieces. They're beautiful and inexpensive. Keep the food simple. No one is going to remember the food anyway. They will remember the festivities and the atmosphere in general but the exact dish that was served will fade quickly. Have enough but not too much. You might even consider hors d'oeu rves and mini sandwiches.
If you know someone who has a unique talent, now is the time to flatter the heck out of them. Do you know someone who sings, bakes or takes pictures? Most people are flattered to be asked to participate in a wedding. Maybe you know someone who makes crafts. She might be willing to help out with the decorations. When you're planning a wedding on a budget, think about the things you might be able to borrow like punchbowls, serving pieces and things you would only use once.
Obviously, weddings are about a lot more than money. It doesn't make much sense though, to start off your marriage with debt you can't afford and will most likely regret. Besides, you'll need the money for the honeymoon!
Lauren Silverstein, Michael Schor
Rabbi Michael S. Friedman officiated at Maplewood Country Club in Maplewood, N.J.
Between a man and his wife nothing ought to rule but love. William Penn |