NOVEMBER 16, 2013 BY ELIZABETH BADEJO
As we count down to the climax of the wedding season and as 2013 gradually draws its curtains, many more couples will be making that very important decision to set a date and kick-start their wedding plans for the new year. We all know that wedding is a beautiful obsession that depicts extravagance, vanity and sometimes unrealistic fantasies which can leave many couples in debt or poorer when reality sets in. It is imperative as you plan your dream wedding in 2014 that you also plan to make the most cost effective decisions with your spouse and families.
Don’t be competitive
The more competitive you are in your daily life is likely to put you under undue pressure. Weddings are not competitions for couples to score goals; so get over the apprehension of trying to blow your budget to impress your friends. What worked for her may not work for you; so focus on your own template of a truly unforgettable wedding crafted within your own capabilities.
Cut cost on your venues
Choosing your wedding venue is really the first step in planning a wedding as all other things center around it. If you really cannot afford the high price tags of grand venues, why not look at alternatives such as school halls, community estates halls, house of worship affiliated halls where you can hold your reception? These venues are usually less costly than upscale venues and there are smaller venues around which can take a good number of guests so long as you can compromise.
Two in one ceremony
A two-in-one engagement and wedding ceremony can reduce the budget by 40 per cent if couples are prepared to make sacrifices too. Many argue that it is stressful to have both ceremonies on the same day but with proper planning and coordinating, it is definitely wiser to save money. If you truly cannot afford the excesses of two days, the engagement can also be a low key two-hour affair on the morning of the wedding with only the few family members who truly matter.
Avoid Saturdays if you must save
You are probably not surprised that Saturday is the most common day to get married, It’s convenient, it’s traditional and it’s what most people are familiar with. And because it is the most common day, it is also the most expensive. Getting married on a week day can save you a lot of money and can also curtail unwanted wedding guests. Many venues may charge up to 40 per cent less if you book them on other days because business is slow on week days and it is extra income for them.
Package deals
Wedding package deals can sometimes work out cheaper and there are several deals and promos which afford you the opportunity to pay for services at discounted rates and within set budgets and also in instalments. Great if you are paying for your own wedding but if you are cash strapped or do not have time to plan yourselves however, discuss and negotiate well to avoid hidden charges.
Notes
There are several money saving tips on how to cut cost on your wedding but at the same time, you cannot afford to become a money pincher with wrong priorities leaving the important details untouched.
It is advisable to engage the services of a good wedding planner or day coordinator to manage the proceedings of your big day. It is penny wise pound foolish sometimes if you think you can do it all on your own.
Lastly, you can involve a few families and friends who may have creative skills which can save you money too but be prepared to pay for their services at a subsidised rate if you want good delivery.
Source : Punch Nigeria
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