Till Debt Do Us Part

Beautiful weddings don’t have to cost a fortune.

Save money by asking a friend to do your bridal makeup and hair. Alex Vog/Shutterstock

It is difficult to imagine: Our wedding cost a whopping $200. I borrowed my dress and veil, I made the bridesmaid’s dresses, a friend had gifted the cake, we had one bouquet for the church, and our fathers (both ministers) performed the ceremony. We opted for the photographer’s monthly special ($100 for eight 8x10s) and paid cash for everything, even the groomsmen’s tux rentals ($10 each). A lot has changed in 52 years, but enough about me.

I recently asked my “EC” readers to send their best money-saving wedding tips. I pored over hundreds of them, dividing them according to popularity and uniqueness. Here, for your reading pleasure, are some of the best:

Make Your Invitations

Check office supply stores for kits to use with your home computer. There are so many beautiful choices, and provided you proofread carefully, no one will know your secret.

Rent or Borrow the Bridal Gown

If you buy, you have to pay for it and then clean it, care for it, and store it forever. A good rental shop includes alterations.

Book Off-Peak

Winter is the off-season; Sunday through Thursday are typically off-peak days. Off-peak hours are early in the day. Book off-peak, and you can cut some costs in half. January is ideal, as most service providers are available and anxious for the work.

Buy Flowers Wholesale

Beautiful flowers don’t necessarily require professional arranging. Find a talented friend to help you place them in vases, buckets, or other creative containers. Example: Sam’s Club and Costco both offer gorgeous flowers, including roses in “growers’ bunches,” starting at about $10.

Think Unique

Contact the historical building preservation organization in your town to learn which facilities are for rent. One couple rented a beautiful 150-year-old home and grounds for the day for just $200. The house was fully furnished, including tables and chairs for their guests.