Paying For The Wedding... Determining Who Pays

Happy Thursday Budget Brides!!!

Picture It (in my Sophia from Golden Girls voice): It's January of 1999, I am at BBQs with a bunch of my friends. In high school I usually hung with about 7 or 8 girls; however, this particular evening there were other girls from our high school that came along to celebrate a birthday. To make a long story short, we had a great stress-free time ordering our food, great conversation and a room full of laughs then the bomb drops. The check comes to the table and people start putting down $20 for their dinner (for 2 people), others start breaking out calculators to add up their bills (including me because I will not pay for others) and a bunch of head rolling occurs because others are trying to skip out on their bill. I can say that this day goes on the list of days that I wanted to crawl under the table and just die. The lesson learned from this experience always know whose paying and how the bill will get paid.

This rule can be translated to your wedding as well. Before you and your fiance decide to put down a penny of money have a serious conversation about who is actually footing the bill for the wedding. As a wedding planner, it is so embrassing to see newly married couples opening up their wedding day cards in order to pay vendors. Know who is paying, how they are paying and when they are paying. This will help you to 1) create & maintain your budget, 2)acknowledge what checklist items can be crossed off your lists of to-dos, 3)give you a point person to follow up with and 4) Give you a peace of mind on your wedding day knowing that all bills have been settled in full.

If there are a variety of people paying for the wedding, for example, your parents, his parents or others make sure you confirm with them about their finacial participation in your special day. Also be honest and up front with them about your expectations for your wedding day. Have a conversation with them about how you would like items paid for. For example, you would like to have the final payment in an envelope the morning of the wedding so that you can hand it off to your wedding planner/coordinator. If your contributors that not adhere to your reasonable rules then you may have to give them a GIRL BYE and move on without their finances.

So Budget Brides, How did you determine who was going to pay for what expenses for your wedding? Did you have any incidents that day of your wedding when it came to paying vendors?

Bridesmaids and Budgets

Happy Tuesday Budget Brides!!!

I hope you all had a great weekend. We all know that weddings can be a very expensive time for the bride and groom as well as their respectively families but many times we don't think twice about the Bridesmaids. Bridesmaids, Maid or Matron of Honor have very important roles in the wedding planning process as well as some wedding activities and wedding day. It is their job to throw your bachelorette party and possibly your bridal shower. I have also seen bridesmaids act as wedding planners, graphic artist, florist, bakers and a host of other things that take a considerable amount of time and money.

So when considering attire for your bridesmaids here are a few tips on how to keep your bridesmaids out of the poor house.

• Have an initial meeting with your bridesmaid whether individually or together to discuss how much they can actually commit to spend for their entire outfit for the wedding. This should include the dress, shoes, purse and possibly any jewelry.
• Once you have determined a price point give your bridesmaid a guideline to follow in terms of picking out their bridesmaid dresses. (Tip: No one wants to feel like they are spending their money without a say.) Examples of guidelines include tea length satin dress in plum or a strapless floor length dress with pick ups.
• If possible, allow your bridesmaids to use items they already have in their closet like silver sandals or pearl earrings and necklace.
• You may want to skip expensive bridal shops and head straight to department stores like David's Bridal, Macy*s and The Limited for economical options. I suggest department stores because you can use coupons on purchases or get a discount for the quanitity you purchase.
• If your bridesmaids have deep pockets, I would suggest companies like Two Birds Bridesmaids and Butter by Nadia who offer convertible dresses that your bridesmaids can wear again and again after your wedding.

Here are some great sites for affordable bridesmaid dresses:

www.davidsbridal.com - Bridesmaid dresses range between $99 - $155 with some dresses on sale for as low as $79.99

www.twobirdsbridesmaids.com - Prices range from $270 - $1375 a little steep; however, these dresses can be worn for years to come.

www.shopbutterbynadia.com - Prices range from $246 - $370 Convertible dress that can be worn 10 different ways.

www.anntaylor.com - Prices range from $185 - $395 most of these dresses can be worn again to church, weddings, Christmas party or a night out on the town.

www.thelimited.com - Currently they are only offering two styles priced at $89.50 and $98.

www.whitehouseblackmarket.com - Prices range from $168 - $398.

So Budget Brides, How did you decide on your bridesmaid dresses? Were you budget conscience or did you just pick and have them pay? Tell us your story.

Budget Bride Tips: To Tip or Not To Tip

Happy Tuesday Budget Brides!!

Welcome Back Budget Brides!!! I know that many of you are just getting back from your Fourth of July vacations but let's get down to all things WEDDINGS. Yesterday I posted '10 Things Every Bride Needs To Know...' which discussed what brides may need to know when they embark on wedding dress shopping.

Since that was our topic yesterday I was pondering on the subject of tipping. I really wonder what people think about tipping their Wedding Dress Consultant for the time he/she has spent with them during their allocated appointment time. I know many of you maybe thinking, why should I tip if they are already getting paid? Well let me put you on pause and give you a few reasons why it is to provide your consultant with a tip.

1. Wedding Dress Consultants are providing you a service the same as a waiter or taxi driver. Would you go to a restuarant and order a ton of food and not tip the waiter for the service he/she provided?

2. Many of you make a million appointments at every bridal shop in town? (Only God Knows Why!) Wedding Dress Consultants typically work on commission which means their time is very valuable. If you are taking up precious time when you know your heart is set on another dress in another store you are preventing the WDC from making a possible sale.

3. Wedding Dress Consultants have the tasks of carrying the 15 dresses that you want to try on, helping you in and out of the dresses and possibly picking the dresses up off the floor after some of you with no home training have thrown them down like last night leftovers.

So Budget Brides, what do you think? Would or have you provided your Wedding Dress Consultant with a tip once she has provided you with a service? If yes, why and if no, why not.

10 Things Every Budget Bride Needs to Know...

Happy Monday Budget Brides!!I know that all of you are in different stages of your wedding planning process. However, I thought that this would be a great time to provide all of you guys with a list of suggestions you may need to know when going Bridal Dress Shopping.10 Things Every Budget Bride Should Know When Going Bridal Dress Shopping1. Before you step into any bridal shop do your homework. Google the stores you are thinking about visiting read other's comments on their experience. Also note their rules, there are many bridal shops that you cannot take pictures in the dresses. This will prepare you for what you may encounter during your appointment.2. When scheduling the appointment make sure that you ask about the time allotted to you for your appointment. Many brides don't realizae that your usually allotted between an hour to two hours for bridal appointments. Which is not a lot of time. So have a fifty person party full of indecisive people is not the way to go. In most cases, you will leave the bridal shop frustrated and confused. Bring the people who A) are paying for the dress and B) people whose opinion you highly respect. 3. Come to your bridal appointment with pictures (from magazines, the internet, etc.) so that the consultant has a clear understanding of what you are looking for. There is nothing like have an idea in your head that you cannot describe to someone else. Pictures always help to bridge that gap.4. I know that many of you may shy away from this tip but allow the consultant to go in the room with you and help you in and out of the dress. This is the time that the consultant takes to learn more about you, your wedding and the dynamics that is keeping it all together. This will help her/him to help you find the dress of your dress. When you have a friend or family member help you it waste valuable time that the consultant can be using to pinpoint the right dress for you.5. In most cases, know that the consultant is experience in helping brides find there perfect dress. Take note of the suggestions she makes about dresses that fit your silhouette or compliment the type of event that your going to have. For example, you maybe a bride who wants a mermaid dress but you do not have any hips. The consultant will probably suggest an A-line or ball gown dress that may work better for you.6. KNOW that you need SIX to NINE MONTHS in order to find, select, order your dress and make alterations. Many brides wait till two or three months before the wedding to purchase their dress not realizing that they are not allocating enough time to receive the dress from the manufacture plus the time it takes for alterations. (If you wait too long there many also be a rush shipping fee that you may have to pay which may take you over your budget.)7. Some bridal shops charge a fee for you to make an appointment so make sure you find that out upfront. This will allow you to visit the bridal shops who do not have a fee first. You never know you may find your dress there and will not need to lose money or feel obligated to go to those pay upfront appointments.8. If possible before purchasing a dress always ask for alterations to come and give you an estimated price on what alterations will cost you. This will help to give you an over all view of how much you will actually be spending for the cost of your wedding attire.9. Some bridal shops also offer discounts on the days that you purchase your wedding dress. BUY the accessories the same day. It does not make sense to lose free money in discounts thinking I can find it somewhere cheaper. Listen Boo, you cannot get a bling - out veil and tiara for $50. It will make your whole wedding day ensemble look cheap and tacky. Like Nike says, Just Do It.10. Be very conscience of your timing!!! Timing is a huge issue in wedding dress shopping. Don't be caught out there spending at the minimum $65 (rushing shipping $40 and alterations $25) because you procasinated or could not make up your mind). This is $65 before you purchase the dress or made an alterations appointment.11. YOU ARE NOT FAT!!! Ok I Know I Know.... every woman is self conscious about something but this is definitely not the time to be. If you have to go two sizes up to a dress that actually fits then do it. You will potentially spend more money in exchanging the dress or hospital bills because you passed the hell out since you could not breath in that too small dress. It is better to always go bigger and have alterations than to go to small.So Budget Brides, what do you think about my suggestions? Do you have some suggestions that you can include to help other brides?

Sunday Brunch: Budget Saving Ideas With Aluminum Can Centerpieces

Happy Sunday Budget Brides!!!

The weather is getting more and more gorgeous outside. But let's face it, it's still pretty much freezing (at least to me) in NYC. So not every Sunday is going to be the chance to relax in the park or have an amazing brunch with friends. But one thing a budget bride can do when trying to save money for the big day is cut cost in the floral centerpiece department. I found this beautiful idea why blog surfing on one of my favorite wedding decor sites and I just fell in love.

via Martha Stewart & Fete Fantic

Yes!!! Budget Brides the idea of using either decorative or plain silver aluminum cans is amazing. They are a budget friendly opportunity to add a little character to wedding day decor. Now this may not be a Sunday where you can relax and enjoy the weather but it's an excellent day for a scavenger hunt.

via Chic Maps by Nikki & Fete Fantic

Here are some tips on where a budget bride can collect aluminum cans:

• Start at home.... Anytime you use an aluminum can rinse it out and save it
• Spend a Sunday going to your community restaurants and ask them for their unused aluminum cans
• Visit a soup kitchen and volunteer in exchange for a few aluminum cans
• Call all of your friends and family asking them to save their unused aluminum cans
• Lastly, walk through your neighborhood on garbage night and look through the recycling bags for unwanted aluminum cans

Here is an article from ehow to help you along the way.

Idea Source

Sunday Brunch...Happy LOVE Day!!!

Happy Valentine's Day Budget Brides!!

Since most of the day will be spent on over priced dinners, chocolates and lots of flowers. Be thankful for the love that you have and the love to come.

For those who have not found the love they want see below for a few suggestions to not make this day so mushy.

Tips for the having a great Valentine's Day without a partner

1. Go to church.... Church always makes me feel good. Go to church and give god thanks.

2. Have a beauty day. Go get a mani, pedi and your hair done. You never know who or what you may find along the way.

3. Shopping with the ladies. Participate in a little retail therapy. This makes any girl feel amazing.

4. Volunteer at your local shelter and give a little love to someone else.

I will be spending this Valentine's Day alone because Mr. Budget is doing a double. So I will definitely be using tips 1 & 3. Hopefully, me and one of my besites can throw in a mani - pedi.

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Alcohol & Weddings: To Have, Not To Have & Everything In Between Pt 3

Happy Thursday Budget Brides!!!

In our final addition of Alcohol & Weddings: To Have, Not To Have & Everything In Between Pt 3, we will discuss signature drinks.

Image from Hostess with the Mostess

Signature Drinks
engaged couples come up with a special drink(s) that they want to share with their guests during the wedding reception or cocktail hour.

Signature drinks are a fun way for both the bride and groom to bring their special moments to the wedding. You can determine your signature drink based on your color scheme, culture, location or wedding theme.

Reduce Costs:

• instead of having your signature drink made with top shelf liquor negotiate with your venue to have them made with "well" liquor
• signature drinks to not have to be alcoholic. Maybe you may want to a fruit punch with real fruit and a splash of 7Up or a Half & Half (Sweet Tea & Lemonade)

Websites To Help You Pick A Signature Drink

Stirrings

Martha Stewart Weddings

Lastly, have fun picking your signature drink and remember to make an appointment with your reception venue or bartender to taste your pre-selected drink. They may also have some suggestions about drinks they have created themselves.

This is the last installment of our Alcohol & Weddings: To Have Not To Have & Everything In Between Pt 3. If you have any questions, please feel free to send me a note at info@thebudgetbrideshandbook.com.

Alcohol & Weddings: To Have, Not To Have & Everything In Between Pt 2

Happy Wednesday Budget Brides!!!

Here is the part two of our Alcohol and Weddings Segment.....

**Before we begin with Cash Bars, I want to add a note about open bars. Open bars can become a liability. When discussing this option with your reception venue remember to ask them who holds the liability of your guests' consumption and any incidents that may occur while their under the influence. This may be a deciding factor for you when figuring out how long you should allow your open bar to last.**

Image from Webecoist

Cash Bar

a bar at a reception or social event where guests cover the costs of their drinks

Most people view cash bars as very tacky, since it is a wedding many people assume that the Bride & Groom should cover the cost of alcohol.

Reduce Cost:

• instead of providing your guest with hard liquor think about just providing the basics of wine and beer
• Serving champagne only is a great option. You may isolate some of your non-champagne drinking guests but most people will drink anything when presented no other option.
• Provide a signature drink that is served during the cocktail hour or throughout the reception night

An upside to having a cash bar is that you are not legally responsible for your guests consumption.

Lastly, remember to always consider your budget. When planning your wedding you have to do what's right for you as a couple. Remember that your wedding is one day. You do not have to go broke or run yourself into the ground to impress others. The neat thing about weddings is there is always room to carve out your own way.

Tomorrow, we'll discuss signature drinks. If you have any questions, feel free to send them to info@thebudgetbrideshandbook.com.

Alcohol & Weddings: To Have, Not Have & Everything In Between Pt 1

Happy Monday Budget Brides!!!

When considering the breakdown of your wedding day budget, many brides underestimate the cost of food and drinks. I have countered many couples who are not drinkers themselves who have dished out thousands of dollars to get their friends and family all liquored up.

***Blank Stare***

I definitely understand the concept of wanting your guests to have a great time and many times that includes alcohol. However, why do you have to break the bank and your budget in doing so?

Image from Real Simple Online click through for more information on the drinks above

Open Bar

a bar at a reception or social event where the host covers the cost of all consumption by their guest

Open Bars are usually the most expensive because they allow your guests to consume at will.

Reduce Cost:

• Distribute drink tickets which allow your guests to consume 1 0r 2 drinks from the bar
• Reduce open bar time to 1-2 hours
• Only have open bar during cocktail hours and limit the amount of drinks that can be consumed
• Consider the option of not supplying your guest with top shelf liquor (Top shelf liqour is the most expensive. Don't worry about what people think. When it is their day they can do it their way.)

Lastly, you don't have to get your guest all liquored up. Supply what is possible within the budget your working with and leave the rest at the door.

Tomorrow, we'll discuss a cash bar and signature drinks. If you have any questions send me a note at info@thebudgetbrideshandbook.com.

Be Safe: Insure Your Wedding Jewelry

Happy Monday Budget Brides!!!

Can you believe that today is the first Monday of 2010? Now that the holidays are over we have to get back to the business of ALL THINGS WEDDING. Many of you are continued readers of this blog; however, some are you are new. Welcome!!! So I wanted to start the new year off discussing insurance. Getting engagement ring insurance is so important to the wedding planning process.

We all know that we live in a world where caterers are always on time, flowers are never damaged and thieves never break into our homes...... Sike!!!

It is for all these reasons and a thousand more that you should insure your wedding jewelry.

Engagement & Wedding Ring Insurance

Q. What is engagement/wedding ring insurance?

A. Engagement/Wedding Ring Insurance is insurance to cover you in case of theft, damage or lost that can occur.

Q. What does this insurance cover?

A. You should want your insurance to cover damage, lost, theft and mysterious disappearance.

Q. If my jewelry becomes damaged, lost, or stolen will the insurance policy replace or repair my jewelry?

A. Depending on the jewelry insurance company that you choose, some companies will replace or repair your damaged, lost or stolen jewelry.

Note: In replacing or repairing your jewelry some insurance companies will only repair jewelry to the condition that it was originally and will only replace your jewelry to the likeness and quality that it was originally.

Q. I already have homeowners' or renter's insurance should I purchase jewelry/ring insurance?

A. I would suggest that you call your insurance company and request reading materials for adding jewelry/engagement insurance to your policy. I would also contact a couple of jewelry/engagement ring insurance companies for reading materials. Compare your findings and determine which is best for your individual situation.

Note: No one can tell you what type of insurance you should acquire. Everyone has different circumstances and situations. It is best to obtain all the information possible and make an informed decision. Homeowners insurance usually covers up to $1,000 of your jewelry lost while renter's insurance usually covers up to $500.

Q. Typically, how much is jewelry/engagement ring insurance?

A. According to my research, jewelry/engagement ring insurance cost about 1.25% - 1.75% of the appraised value of the ring each year.

Note: If your ring cost $15,000 then your insurance cost will be between $187.50 - $262.50.

Here are some questions The Knot advises you to ask before committing to an insurance policy:

Is the ring covered if you lose it accidentally, or only if it's stolen?

How will the company replace the ring? By check or will they require you to obtain a replacement through a specific jeweler?

What if it is a vintage ring or other unique piece? How will the quality and size of your diamond, and that of a replacement if needed, be documented?

Is the ring insured to full cost or a fraction of it?

How will you need to prove the ring vanished if you need to prove a claim?

Are there any circumstances that are not covered under the policy?

Jewelry/Engagement Ring Insurance Companies

Jewelers Mutual - Specializes in personal and retailer insurance coverage. Jewelers Mutual offers repair and replacement coverage. All jewelry must be appraised before the application is approved. Policy is not available for unset stones, antique jewelry and previously damaged items.

The Chubb Group - Specializes in a few different types of insurances; however, they have policies for jewelry specifically. You can obtain a policy through independent insurance agents or jewelry retailers. The Chubb Group recommends jewelry appraisals for all jewelry but only recommends jewelry appraisals for items worth $50,000 or more. Coverage does not include loose diamonds.

Sources include About.com, Jewelers Mutual, The Chubb Group and The Knot

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Before You Buy... Do Your Research

Happy Tuesday Budget Brides!

We know that many of you have either found your perfect dress or are still in the process of looking for it.

Picture it! It's 2009 in Anytown, USA and you are in the bridal salon with your wedding party and mom. You have found the perfect dress and then you ask for the price. Whoa!! You didn't realize the dress of your dreams was so expense. Well before you give up let us give you a few tips and websites where you maybe able to have your dream dress after all.

Sample Sales - Many bridal salons have sample sales on a consistent basis. We would suggestion going to your favorite bridal salon websites and signing up for their newsletters so that you would be in the know. Also, if the website does not have a sign up field call the store and ask them when would they have a sample sale. Below is a listing of stores in various cities.

Atlanta
Kelly's Closet
Impressions Bridal Salon


Chicago
The Bride's Room
Wedding Belles Ltd.

New York
Kleinfield Bridal
Bridal Atelier


Portland, OR
Charlotte's Weddings & More


Washington, DC
It's All About The Dress

Running of the Brides - Filene's Basement broke the mold when they created their running of the Brides event. Below you can find a listing of upcoming events in various states. Don't see one in your area, check the website periodically for dates in your area.

Chicago, IL (State Street) - July 24th

Washington, DC (Mazza Gallerie) - July 31st

Boston, MA (Hynes Convention Center) - August 21st

Cleveland, OH (Warrensville Heights) - October 16th

The Internet is Your Friend! - Use the internet as your yellow pages. There are many websites out there that offer new or gently used wedding gowns at up to 70% off the retail price. We know that most Brides want to have a brand new dress for their special day; however, gently used could save you thousands and leave you room to use that money else where.

Bravo Bride

Pre-Owned Wedding Dresses

Scarlet's Closet Sample Sale

Sell Your Wedding Dress

White Xchange

Image from Brides.com

Postage Goes Up Next Monday, May 11th!!!

Happy Thursday Morning Budget Brides!

As many of you may know the US stamp postage is increasing from 42 cents to 44 cents and postcard stamps increase to 28 cents.

Remember that the Forever stamps never decline in value. So you can be smart and buy the number of stamps you will need now and save them for when you want to use them.

We know that many of you would love to use the stamps made especially for weddings but just think about the amount of money you would save on postage if you buy the forever stamps now.

Image from The Fun Times Guide

Flowers By the Season

Happy Tuesday Budget Brides!

Today we are going to discuss flowers. Flowers are usually a big portion of any wedding day budget probably placing second to the reception. It is very important for you to be knowledgeable about the types of flowers that you want to have for your wedding ceremony, bridal party & reception. You want to make sure that whatever flower or combination of flowers you choose to use for your wedding day is in season for your location. For example, Tulips are available in the East, Midwest & South during the Spring, in the West during the Spring and Winter. Purchasing flowers that are not in season is very costly because your florist will have to get those flowers brought in out of state which increases the price of the flowers. While if you choose flowers that are in-season, they will be locally grown & cost you less money.
Below you will find a listing of flowers by season:

Spring Season
Apple or cherry blossoms
Daffodils
Dogwoods
Forsythia branches
Foxglove
Hyacinth
Iris
Larkspur
Lilies
Lilacs
Lily of the Valley
Pansies
Peonies
Ranunculus
Rose
Snapdragon
Stars of Bethlehem
Statice
Sweet Peas
Tulips
Viburnum
Violet

Summer Season
Asiatic Lily
Asters
Calla Lilies
Clematis
Cosmo
Dahlias
Daisies
Delphinium
Geraniums
Gerbera daisy
Hydrangeas
Iris
Jacobs Ladder
Larkspur
Queen Anne’s Lace
Pansy
Roses
Shasta daises
Stock
Sunflower
Tuberose
Viburnum
Violet
Zinnias

Fall Season
Asters
Chrysanthemums
Coreopsis
Cosmo
Dahlia
Delphinium
Gerbera daisies
Hydrangea
Marigolds
Phlox
Roses
Scabiosa
Sunflowers
Zinnias

Winter Season
Amaryllis
Camellias
Forget-me-nots
Forsythia
Hydrangea
Holly
Jasmine
Orchids
Poinsettias
Rose

Budget Brides Tip: To get more information on which flowers are suitable in which season geographic area please visit Bliss Weddings.

Images from The Knot

Get Your Dream Dress at the Price You Want

Good Afternoon Budget Brides!

Here are 7 tips on how you can "Get Your Dream Dress at the Price You Want"

Image from MaggieSottero.com

1. Your Engaged!
Once you get engaged decide what style of dress you would like to wear.

2. Search & Collect
Begin to search Magazines, Websites and TV shows for the dress that are similar to what you are looking for. Make sure that you pull and save any pictures that you find so when you start to visit Bridal Salons you can give the consultant an actual idea of what you desire.

3. Choosing a Bridal Salon
Make sure you get referrals from friends on bridal salons. Not every bridal salon works the same way. So talk to your friends to find out what rules or stipulations a salon might have before you commit to buying a dress.

ie. Most bridal salons require you to make your alterations with them at an additional cost sometimes totaling hundreds of dollars.

4. Online Shopping
Never buy a wedding dress online unless you are absolutely sure that this is THE DRESS. Many online wedding stores have a policy where the dress cannot be returned or if returnable you have to pay a restocking fee. The good thing about online weddign dress shop is that you can usually find a dress cheaper than in a salon.

* Extra Tip: Make sure you have have your body measured according to the website specifications. This will help you get the most accurate size.

4. The Dress Council
Make sure you invite friends & family who know you & your style when going to search for your wedding dress. You need people who will be truthful but also understanding of your budget & style. You never want to be in a situation where you have brought a dress that you really don't like.

5. Bare Necessities & Shoes
Bring all the undergarments & shoes your going to wear on your wedding day when you are going on your bridal search. This will help you see the exact fit of the dress on your wedding day. It will also help the salon or tailor when they are making the alterations to your dress.

ie. Let's say you don't bring your shoes and the dress length is cut to short. You may have to shell out additional money to have an extension place on the dress.

6. Get the RIGHT Size
We cannot stress this GOLDEN rule enough. Budget Brides, please don't buy a dress smaller than what you are. We know! We know! Your going to lose the weight so that you can look slim & trim on your wedding day. Well here's a reality check unless your buying a wedding dress more an 6-12 months in advance you make not lose enough weight to fit into the smaller dress. Our advice is to buy the dress that the size you are at your fitting. When you go for your next fitting if the dress is to big have the salon alter the dress to your body.

7. Do Your Research
Don't just settle on a bridal salon dress. Make sure you exhaust all options before committing to one establishment or person. Search Google, Etsy, Ebay, Sample Sales and discount online bridal websites for the dress you want at a cheaper price.

ie. The Maggie Sottero - Aretha Dress above can run anywhere between $600 & $1500. Below you will find a listing of websites with this same exact dress at various prices.

Top Bridal Dresses - $315.99

The Bridal Shop of Mamaroneck, NY - $780.00

Tie The Knot Bride - $829.00

5 Tips to help decrease your Wedding Day Budget

5 Tips to help decrease your Wedding Day Budget
by Sharise Finley

image from The Knot

1. Always Create a Budget
Before you begin to spend any money make sure you create a budget detailing the total amount that you want to spend and the areas that you want to spend it in. This will help you to keep track of your spending and help you fine tune the areas in which you have saved money and can allocate money to something else.

2. Reception Site
Typically weddings are held on Saturdays which makes most venues slow during the week. Ask your venue Rep. for the cost difference of a wedding on a Wednesday or Friday rather than a Saturday. I know that a wedding in the middle of the week maybe inconvenient but with the right preparation and communication all should go well.

3. Flower Shop
Flowers from a florist are always going to cost. So if you want to decrease your flower budget do your research. Make sure that the flowers you want in your wedding are in the season that your wedding will occur. If you are a DIY Bride, visit your local flower market and purchase bundles of flowers to create bouquets, boutonnières and centerpieces for your special day.
* Extra Tip - Make sure you have a couple of test runs before the wedding so that you can get the look you want.

4. Learn to Love Your MP3 Player
If you're like me you can live without your MP3; however, during this process you will need to learn to love it. Your MP3 player may become one of your biggest assets since you already have the device and all of the songs you love is already downloaded on it.
* Extra Tip - Keep a pen & pad next to every radio in your car, home and at work. When you hear a song you love or would like to hear on your wedding day write it down so that you can download for the wedding reception.

5. Do Your Research
Doing your research is most important. Yes, it may take more time and effort but in the end you can save more money. Before you make a purchase research the costs at competitors or online. You may be able to still use your vendor of choice but at a cheaper price. There are tons of websites that can help you find products and services at a cheaper price. Check Ebay, Etsy and blogs with a classified section for independently made or gently used items.

Cottage Living Article: Garden Wedding on a Budget

Here is an article that I found on CottageLiving.com that gives ideas on executing a Garden Wedding on a budget.

Top 10 Budget-saving Ideas for a Garden Wedding

Get the low-down on having a low-cost but beautiful event.
By Linda Facci


1. Charge it Connect your MP3 player to outdoor speakers instead of hiring a band or DJ. Besides saving money, you’ll have complete control over the music being played.
2. Don’t forget to have and to hold your flowers, tooBuy them at a local market and make your own bouquet. Choose varieties in season and create simple arrangements for the tables. (Don’t pick apart your own garden; you want it to be as lush as ever for your wedding day.)
3. Point and shootHave a shutterbug friend or family member use a digital camera to catch the special moments. Sharing time and talent makes a great gift—and deserves one in exchange.
4. Do yourself a favorPurchase boxes of sparklers, then handwrite place cards and tie them to each box with a pretty ribbon. These also become tokens that will light up the night.
5. Be for the birdsInstead of tossing rice (which can harm birds), fill a decorative container with birdseed. Your guests can grab handfuls. They’ll feed your garden and your feathery friends at the same time.
6. Don’t get stuck on a deserted aisleMake a special entrance: create a pretty, natural aisle with a border of cobblestones or flowering potted plants.
7. Light up your lifeString white lights around trees and on top of arbors and pergolas. Place candles in dark areas. They make any night starry and magical.
8. Let them eat cupcakesServe an assortment on a tiered stand for your wedding cake. Top each little treat with an edible flower. The different flavors and icing will satisfy everyone, and clean-up will be a breeze.
9. Toast the knotCreate a signature drink and make a huge batch of it. Or keep it simple with beer, wine, and champagne (plus a few nonalcoholic options). Store in a barrel or large steel bucket filled with ice. Guests can serve themselves.
10. Make your event fan-tastic!If you choose to have an outdoor wedding in summer, keep colorful paper fans on hand as a fun and practical favor that your guests are sure to appreciate.

Image & Information from CottageLiving.com

Real Wedding of Kevin & Shanna Live from Mexico

Happy Hump Day!
So I am finally back from my much needed vacation and you know I have some juicy souvenirs from my travels. I was sitting on the beach at the Sandos Playacar Resort & Spa in Riveria Maya and my bestie Nicole calls over to me that a wedding is in progress on the other side of the fence. So you know I had to go over and check it out. It was the wedding of Kevin & Shanna. The Bride looked amazing in her beachy wedding dress and the groom look so clam & cool in his white shirt and khakis.
I was able to shoot three videos so take a look.


Real Wedding of Kevin & Shanna Pt 1


Real Wedding of Kevin & Shanna Pt 2


Real Wedding of Kevin & Shanna Pt 3
If you are looking to have a beach wedding it is a wonderful idea. It can be very personal and intimate for you and a few family and friends. There were about 20 to 30 people at Kevin & Shanna's wedding. I thought that it was very romantic for them, you could really feel the love that they shared. So whether you have a beach wedding in your hometown or at a destination keep it real simple and all about you as a couple.
*Budget Brides Tip: Looking for a way to cut down on your guest review the prospect of having a destination wedding. Destination weddings are a great way to have your family and friends support you on your special day. It will also cut your guest list down because not everyone is going to be able to afford the trip. Video of Kevin & Shanna filmed at Sandos Playacar Resort & Spa

Guest Blogger: Ashley from Bride on Budget

Happy Monday Budget Brides! Yes, I am still in Cancun relaxing from all of the stress back in New York. I have asked Ashley of Bride on Budget to be a Guest Blogger on The BBH while I am on vacation. Enjoy & Thanks Ashley!

Budgets are the evil of weddings. The average wedding costs $20,000, but not all couples can afford that. My fiance and I are both full-time students and are paying for our entire wedding ourselves. Therefore, we have a very small budget of $5,000.

Photography is a very important element to me in our wedding because it will be the only thing we have to look back on after the day is over. We're going to spend all that money to get our family and friends together and I want it captured on film. I really wanted a photographer for an entire day, but that is really hard to find for under $1000.

I started looking at photographers in my town and they were all overly priced. The only thing you could get for under $1000 was a few hours of photography. I decided then it was time to look in neighboring cities (no more than 2 hours away) and see if there was a cheaper photographer in those areas. I found one photographer in Jacksonville, FL (2 hours away from my wedding) who shoots for an entire day for $1000 and does not charge travel fees anywhere in the Southeast. I was ecstatic. It gets even better though. My fiance is in the National Guard. Our photographer offers a 25% military discount! So, we're getting a full day of photography and nice album for only $750!

If photography is an important element to you, try some of these tips to help get one for cheaper:
1. Don't just stick to photographers in your town. A lot of photographers will travel and will charge no or very little fee to do so.
2. Ask about discounts. Businesses often offer discounts to military, students, AAA, elderly, etc. They are normally 5-10%, but sometimes they range as far up as 25%!
3. Determine how many hours you really need the photographer. Do you have to have pictures of the entire ceremony and reception? If not, only have your photographer shoot the important moments and rely on your friends to take the candid shots.
4. Don't give up! You will find someone who works for you.

I used these tips to find the perfect photographer for me and I can't wait to see the pictures she shoots on my wedding day. I was very lucky and you can be to.

- Ashley, Bride on Budget

DIY: Calligraphy

Happy Friday Budget Brides!

Here is a post that i found on "With this Ring.... Comes A Lot of Hard Work". Almost An Anderson is a 24 year old bride who is planning a wedding in Fort Worth, Texas. She came up with a brilliant idea on how to create custom almost handmade calligraphy without paying a whole lot of money. So Budget Brides, let's all give a big THANK YOU to "With this Ring.... Comes A Lot of Hard Work" by Almost An Anderson for helping us to save money.

Calligraphy: 101

• First, set up MS Word using the mailings feature to print addresses on the size envelope I was using.





• Then I entered the first recipient's address and set the font color to brown, just a few shades lighter than the envelope color. I adjusted the printer settings for my 5.25 x 7.25" envelope, and printed the address directly onto the envelope. This took a little more time and practice envelopes than I expected to get the position right, but I finally wiggled it around and got it centered.


• Then, I traced over the address using my white ink and calligraphy pen. You need very good lighting for this step, because the brown ink on brown paper was difficult to see. The brown-on-brown ensures nobody will be able to see if I don't cover the printed lines exactly (except you guys, of course). It actually took two coats of ink to get the right amount of coverage, since the white ink was a little bit opaque.


• While this shortcut was extremely helpful, it still required a bit of finesse while figuring out how to use the calligraphy pen and bottled ink. You need to position the pen at an angle to produce the thinner and thicker lines within the letters, and adjusting the pressure on the pen controls the amount of ink that's released from the nib. I would definitely suggest a few practice runs before you start on your envelopes.


• This technique would also work well with any other ink and paper color combination, and gives that fancy hand-written feeling without the worry of crooked lines or inconsistent lettering.

Information & Images from With this Ring.... Comes A Lot of Hard Work

DIY: Wedding Monogramming

This post is for all my DIY budget brides. As I search the internet for new & innovative products to bring to you sometimes I find diamonds in the rough. Today I stumbled upon Brianna Nichole's Wedding Monogramming Tutorials which features tutorials on how to create a variety of monograms for all of your wedding needs. You can create invitations, aisle & table runners, candles and mores. Brianna Nichole gives you a step by step instruction on how to create the monogram of your dreams for your big day. Making your own monogram is so easy with these tutorials since the instructions are easy to follow and there are pictures for every step. What's even better is that Brianna Nichole's does not charge for expertise in helping all of you budget conscience brides with creating your wedding day monograms; however, she does have a paypal button on her site for any donation that you would want to provide. So with this post we both salute & thank Brianna Nichole from Brianna Nichole's Wedding Monogramming Tutorials for such a thoughtful idea.

Monogram Photoshop Tutorials

Letter Behind Monogram Tutorial

Power Point Monogram Tutorial

Shamrock Tutorial

Triple Box Monogram Tutorial

Twine Monogram Tutorial
How to Draw Lines Tutorial
Reception Menu Tutorial
Mr. & Mrs. Wedding Signs Tutorial

See Below for examples of monograms:

Images & Links from Brianna Nichole's Monogramming Tutorial