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Miss Know It All |
Yes, that’s right. I said a frugal wedding. Don’t stand on ceremonies when it comes to saving
money. Why spend humongous amounts of cash, refinance a home or use credit
cards on a wedding that might not last for more than a second.
Today, the average American wedding can cost anywhere from $30,000
to $50,000, and that’s just in New
York City. If you have disposable
income, then go ahead and plan that extravagant event. But if you are in a
financial hole, and who isn’t in this economy, you can still have a fabulous
wedding without going into debt. Following are some ideas to help you plan that
extraordinary, penny-pinching wedding. The extra cash you’ll save can go towards
putting a down-payment on a house, investing in stock market or buying a
certificate of deposit, even if it only provides .01% interest. At least you’ll
have some money for that rainy day.
Rather than
have fancy and expensive invitations printed by a vendor, print the invitations
yourself on plain 20 lb. paper, and don’t include a self-addressed stamped
envelope for your guests to RSVP. Chances are they will remove the postage
stamp, never reply and still show up at your wedding.
You can
save bundles of money, avoid drama brought on by family, friends and future
in-laws by going to City Hall.
If you
must have that designer wedding dress, go to a thrift shop, rent or ask to
borrow a friend’s or relative’s dress.
Instead of
having an elaborate reception at some exclusive catering hall, celebrate your
union at McDonald’s, Burger King, Popeyes or Kentucky Fried Chicken, and let
your guests pay at cost.
Use fake foliage
instead of fresh flowers.
Forget the
eight tiered wedding cake. Serve cupcakes, brownies or cookies.
If you want
to save money on food and drinks, have guests bring their own dish and/or liquor.
Instead of hiring
a stretch limousine, use public transportation, roller skate, bike, walk or jog
to your destinations.
For
music, bring a radio and tune into a station that plays non-stop melodies.
Ask your
guests to take photos and videos of your wedding ceremony. You will save a fortune.
And chances are the photographer and/or videographer will end up taking lousy
images, go out of business or disappear with all of your money.
For your
honeymoon, rent a travel video of the place you would like to visit, and
pretend you and your mate are there.
In lieu
of gifts, ask for cash.
Well, that’s it. These tips may sound tacky, but think
about it; your unforgettable wedding will be the chatter of your guests for
years to come.