Chronic Blogger

Always a bridesmaid

What's with all these weddings lately? In 2005, I've been to 3 separate weddings. I have another one in January where I'm supposed to bridesmaid for. I guess it's just that time in life when everyone around me starts getting married.

Seeing all these weddings is both good and bad. It's good as it gives me a clear idea of what and what not to do when I eventually have one. Mainly what works and what doesn't work, where to cut corners and pinch more pennies ahahaha.

Here's my shortlist of how to plan a great wedding on a budget:

• Have a clear list of people to invite beforehand. This allows you to estimate the type of reception you should have.
• Invite more people to the wedding, less to the reception. This cuts down on the total cost of the reception dinner. It can amount to a lot of money depending on what you're serving.
• Provide some finger food and refreshments after the wedding. This will cost less than having everyone in the wedding over for your reception and people will appreciate it.
• DIY wedding invitations for those invited to the wedding only. This seems to be a trend and can be pulled off quite well. There are books available on how to do this.
• Bridal clearance sales are your friends. Be on the lookout as there are some great and at least 50% off-the-rack dresses available. Bridesmaids can also find a couple of nice dresses here for a third of the price of a dress from the retail shops. I bought my dress for $99, down from $300.
• Have 2 bridesmaids and 2 groomsmen so you can fit in the 1 limo. Transport can hurt the pocket when there are too many people to cater for. Cut it down to the basics, or even hire a Tarago to fit everyone else in.

That's what I've picked up on so far. Coming up next will be tips for a great wedding that everyone attending will enjoy :)

posted by chronicblogger @ 1:05 AM