We all hear about it on the news. Even experiencing it in their daily lives. What am I referring to? I’m talking about the current economic crisis.
The current unemployment rate is at 8%, the highest it has been since the mid 1980’s. According to the Wedding Report, a wedding statistics and market researcher for the wedding industry, the national average spending for weddings has dropped from $21, 814 in 2008 to a predicted $20,398 for 2009. Things are looking grim. For those who are planning to wed amidst this troubled economic climate, you are probably facing a budget crisis of your own.
Before you cancel everything entirely, here are five tips to keep your wedding on track and save some money:
1. Hire a professional planner - A professional planner will have connections with various vendors and direct you to the ones that will fit your budget. They can also provide you with cost saving ideas and decorating tips.
2. Revisit the guest list - The cost of invitations, food, drink, favors and decorations are greatly influenced by the number of your guests. Keep the guest list small and you can very well keep your costs low.
3. Get a wedding website - Save money on invitations, save the dates and most of all, postage. If you know that most of your guests are computer savvy, take advantage of it. You can post all the information about your wedding, including locations, maps and hotel information on the website. Guests can RSVP, email you and also get your registry information. Signature Soirees can help you get one set up. Contact us today.
4. Recycle and reuse - Ask a friend that has recently gotten married or had a party if you can use some of their items. Vases, votive holders or linens can all be used again. Add your own special touches to them with ribbon or paper will breath new life into old items.
5. Saturday isn’t the only day for weddings - Schedule your wedding on a Friday evening or Sunday afternoon. Friday evening weddings can help you cut costs because the shortened length of time decreases costs for drinking. You can also have the ceremony and reception at the same venue. The same goes for a wedding on a Sunday afternoon. Additional cost savings here can be opting for an alcohol free reception or just serving a signature drink like a mimosa.
For help to plan a cost effective wedding in this economy, contact Signature Soirees’ Principal Consultant, Kandice Brooks at 866-880-7902 or visit our website.
