Frugal With Finances How To Know When To Scrimp And When To Spend

Frugal with Finances? How to Know when to Scrimp and when to Spend

Putting together a wedding these days is anything but cheap and the cost seems to be escalating annually. If you are of the frugal nature, you may decide not to go full out, rather deciding on what you can afford to scrimp on and when to spend. Determining where the bulk of the money should go is not as difficult a task as it seems. What you really need to decide is what is most important to you and go from there. Here are some helpful hints to divvy out the dough.

Photographer

This is a one-shot deal and you will want it done right the first time. After it is all said and done, the last thing you want is to review horrible wedding pictures. After all, it will be too late. No second chances. Hire a professional-- it is worth it and it will pay for itself in sheer appreciation.

The Cake

Who does not appreciate a wonderful wedding cake? For obvious reason, a cake should be done professionally. Having Aunt Gene make a cake in her apartment kitchen will show its contempt of culinary art very quickly. This cake may need to feed many and having a professional in this field will ensure the deal is done right.

Reception and Catering

This will definitely be your biggest expenditure for obvious reasons. It is said that many guests can quickly forget a wonderful ceremony, yet never forget a horrible reception. You need space and plenty of it, as there will be dancing and small games throughout the evening. Ensure that you have entertainment to keep the crowd on their feet and not asleep at the tables. This is a must. Food and spirit must be available and done with taste; many guests truly look forward to this part of the evening. Make it special for both you and your guests.

Now here are some issues that can be scrimped on

Attire

Although you want to look like a million dollars on that special day, it does not mean that you have to spend that amount. There are so many options these days in the attire department. You could try going to a bridal factory outlet and get a great deal on some wonderful gowns and accessories. Many times, they even carry shoes and bridal under garments. There are similar stores for the groom as well, if they do not find what they are seeking for there is always the rather cheap rental scenario.

Flowers

As you may or not know, flowers are seasonal. When the flower is out of season it will be pricey. There are many flowers on the market and it is not the end of the world if you cannot get those bluebonnets or orchids. Why not try a cheaper, yet still elegant flower such as the carnation and greens to tie it together.

Wedding Invitations and Programs

This is another budget buster and can sneak up on you rather quickly. Finding a decent package on wedding stationery is not too hard to find. There is something that should be pointed out, though. It is not absolutely necessary to get both invitation and program. When guests are seated and the ceremony commences, they have a pretty good idea what they are seeing and the general outcome. The guest really do not need a blow by blow report on exactly what is going on before them, nor do they need to be informed of what is next. This is an expenditure that is not really necessary and will eat up valuable funds that can go in other directions and needs.

Wedding Consultant

This may or may not be the route you were planning on going. If it was, then be prepared to pay, but the bounty could be rather steep depending on whom you hire. Yes, it will ensure your event goes off smoothly, but at what cost? With a dedicated plan and lots of homework and a little shopping time, you and your friend can pull the wedding off. Be sure to investigate wedding insurance as it will make sure all you set up arrives when it needs to and always read fine print before signing anything. Good luck and congratulations to you both.