Wedding Planning Tips for Saving Money on ‘THE’ Big Day

Each year, the holiday season ushers in the excitements and joys of marriage proposals and engagements. It is a time of year that is frequently viewed as a perfect time to “pop the question”, and that ‘pop’ is immediately followed by the need to begin planning and preparing for THE Big Day ahead. Aimee Massaro, the owner and founder of WISHES Concierge Services (www.wishcorp.com) in Scarsdale, New York, has Ten Tips for ways to save money on that ‘dream wedding day’.

(PRWEB) January 10, 2004 --WISHES Tips for Watching the Wedding Budget:
1)   Select an “Off” Date or Time.
There simply are not enough Saturday nights in a year. Look into a Friday night, Sunday brunch, Thursday night or Saturday afternoon. These “off” dates and times could give you extra money for a “dream” honeymoon as well.

2)   Select an “Off” Month.
While many females dream of being a June Bride, January through March brides can save a lot more money. During these “off” months, vendors such as caterers and musicians, will be a lot more flexible with their pricing. So, a Saturday night wedding may be possible, it just may need to be indoors. A Winter Wonderland wedding can be quite beautiful.

3)   Choose a Site that Includes Everything.
Many people believe that by using a raw space, or their own backyard, will save money. The reality is that it’s a lot more expensive to rent tents, tables, chairs, linens, china, etc., and more stressful.

4)   Skip the Favors
Guests rarely use, or want them. Instead make a donation to a favorite charity and place a simple note at each place setting letting your guests know of your donation. Share the happiness with those less fortunate!
                  
5)   Tailor the Menu
Buffets are not always less expensive. While there are less staff involved, there is a lot more food, which increases the caterer’s costs and final bill. An elegant seated luncheon or dinner of appetizer, salad, entrée and wedding cake will be plenty. Keep cocktails simple because guests don’t need a meal before a meal. A cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeuvres will be elegant and more than enough!

6)   Borrow
Since something needs to be borrowed, perhaps a headpiece from a sister or a friend. Remember, chances are it will not be worn again.

7)   Scale Back on Flowers
Work with the florist to select flowers that are in the season of the wedding, rather than what is not. Reuse flowers from the ceremony at the reception for decor, or around the cake.

8)   Book Short Term
The closer out you book a date, the more flexible vendors will be. A date that sits empty is non-profitable, but a last minute booking can be golden for the couple as well as the vendors. Assembling a wedding celebration in less than six months, gives a negotiating advantage.

9) Shop the Sample Sales for Your Dress
Buy the “dream” designer dress at a fraction of the cost!

10) Keep the Guest List Small
Ask yourself how many long distance relatives and long ago friends truly need to be invited. Share the day with those nearest and dearest. It will be more meaningful, and the bride and groom will actually have a chance to mingle with all the guests.

WISHES Concierge Services Corp. is Westchester’s premiere concierge and event planning service provider. Aimee Massaro delivers first-class, custom services designed to make life simpler and more enjoyable. WISHES can arrange every detail of wedding planning from the engagement party to a wedding day timeline; recommend and work with vendors; schedule all appointments; make all hotel and transportation arrangements; attend to a bride’s personal shopping needs; and make honeymoon suggestions and travel arrangements.
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