Although The Knot’s 2019 study put average wedding costs around $40,000, lots of little details come together to build up the price; according to the study, the reception venue alone averages $15,000. But with careful planning and culling, couples can slash costs and still enjoy the wedding of their dreams. Start with these tips.
them to contribute to a dessert bar at your reception. Entrusting tasks to skilled loved ones keeps their organization close while also lending a personal touch to the festivities. Something important to remember: With few exceptions, you should offer and expect to pay your loved ones for the time they put in (and definitely the materials they need) on your wedding’s behalf. They’re performing services, just like your contracted vendors, and should be compensated. Your loved ones may decline payment and offer their services to you as a gift, but that should be their choice. Regardless, budget for a small gift for each team member to thank them for their contributions. It’s also critical to communicate with your team and have people in place who you actually like and trust; if a task is handed to someone unpleasant or unreliable, only misery awaits.
ASSEMBLE A TALENTED CREW
LOOK FOR ALL-IN-ONE VENUES
Is your friend a graphic designer? Hire them to create custom invitations. Got a cousin who’s talented on the piano? Have them tickle the ivories while the bridal party marches down the aisle. Does your mother have an eye for design? Ask her to take charge of decorating. Do your aunts all have killer dessert recipes? Ask
All-in-one venues continue to rise in popularity. Staying onsite for your wedding and reception — and even your overnight accommodations — cuts down on transportation costs and saves valuable time between wedding prep, photos, the ceremony and reception. Reception venues often supply tables and chairs, and their preferred vendors list
4 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021
PHOTOS COURTESY OF OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER
Cut costs with these tips
may get you additional services at a lesser price than if you contracted them yourself.
BE SMART WITH FLORALS Go for silk flowers versus fresh. Not only is the selection vastly larger — you won’t run into out-of-season blooms with silk flowers — but their longevity far outweighs fresh flowers, allowing them to be displayed as keepsakes or passed onto future generations of betrothed couples. For fresh flowers at a reasonable price, stick with in-season varieties, and accent them with greenery, which often costs less than blooms and yet gives bouquets a fuller look.
RENT INSTEAD OF BUY Nearly everything, from dinnerware to dresses, tablecloths to decorations, silverware to sound systems, can be rented for your big day. Men’s attire has long been temporarily procured for the day of, but dresses can be, too. Renting can be a way to ease the costs associated with bridesmaids and flower girl dresses, which are usually worn once and then discarded. For brides, don’t feel that you have to unload four-to-six figures for your perfect dress; often, sites such as Rent the Runway can supply a gorgeous gown at a reasonable price. Event rental stores are a one-stop