In today's economy, we are all trying to make the best out of a low to no dollar situation. Meaning the money we are making, is not going as far as we would like it to go. This has taken place in every aspect of life, for example, Oil, Gas, Milk, and the chocolate chip cookies that I know longer can afford, the price of everything is skyrocketing, and sad to say, you're wedding plans are no exception. So how can you bend and stretch you're wedding dollars, when planning your special event? Always remember, and never forget, knowledge is power! Sound familiar? If you have the know-how you will be able to save money, have a wonderful wedding, and actually come out ahead in the process.



Hopefully this makes sense and the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together. Here are four helpful tips that you can start using today.

1. Limit the size of your guest list:

This you can do right away without any cost. Even though you're not spending any money, what you will have to spend is time. The less people you have on your guest list, the less you have to spend on per plate cost. Remember the caterers are going to charge you per-person, so by reducing your guest list you will always come out ahead but keep in mind, this will take some serious thought and planning.

2. Reduce You Wedding Party Size

Believe it or not, there are advantages to having a smaller, more manageable bridal party.

Think about it, your bridal party will be so much easier to communicate with, the reason for this is simple, there are fewer people to contact when changes in the rehearsal schedules or anything else should come up. You will be able to save a considerable amount of money, when buying gifts for those in the bridal party, cutting back will mean big savings for you.

3. Food Cost

Food is one, if not the biggest expense you will have, when you're wedding plans are underway. Research and explore your options to see what is best for you. For example having a dessert reception will all the chocolate covered goodies, could be something to consider, or instead of a sit down meal have a buffet dinner. Here is a caterer tip, "drop-off-catering". The caterer delivers already prepared food and sets it up, this is a valuable option when it comes to saving money. You can always cater it all or partially yourself, if you are up to the challenge.

4. Flowers

You can get friends or families who have the talent in this area, to help with your decorations and center pieces. Instead of freshly cut flowers that can be very expensive and costly, consider silk flowers instead, they have a very elegant look, and last much longer than real flowers. Or perhaps choose a location that is already decorated to your liking, another option is have the wedding ceremony in a garden setting, or a museum.

Stay Informed

Tony James