Since the economy tanked in 2007, an increasing number of American couples are choosing to get married on the cheap, rather than shell out for expensive ceremonies and receptions. The reality is that newlyweds can start out their lives together deep in debt from expensive nuptials and that’s not the best way to begin the ‘happiest day of your life.’
In 2010, the average cost of a wedding was $23,867. To put this in perspective, that could be a down payment on a house.
There are many things you can do to reduce your costs and still have an elegant wedding:
• Have your reception at a friend or relative’s home
• Buy alcohol in bulk
• Plan your wedding with your mom or friend
• Use baked goods or homemade crafts as wedding favors
• Get married on a Sunday or other non-peak day
• Split the cost of flowers with another couple
• Invite fewer people
• Make your own invitations
• Rent your wedding dress (you wear it only one day)
Review your wedding expenses and determine which are nothing more than ‘impress other people items’. Spending a lot of money on a wedding just to impress people is not worth it if you have to go in debt to pay for it. True friends and family won’t care if your wedding costs $1,000 or $20,000. Spend what you’re comfortable with and enjoy your wedding day!