How do i plan my own wedding for less than 1000? we are on a very tight buget.

by andrea harris
(decatur,ga 30035)

My wedding is taken place on july 5, 2008. my wedding colors are silver, burgandy, and white. I am thinking about having four bridesmaids/groomsmen, my reception will be held at my grandmothers house in stone mountian,ga. We haven't bought anything for the wedding yet. My mother gave me her unity candle holders and her cake knife set, which is from her previous marriage.

Ideas

Hi Andrea
When you are dealing with a budget of 1000 or less you need to think about what is important to you for your wedding and then how you can fit it in.

You have already started your wedding planning really well by organising your reception venue this is a great saving for your wedding.

You will need to think about your wedding dress, is there a classic family wedding gown that you could have altered and made up to date? It adds to your wedding story if you can say you were married in your grandma's wedding gown.

Four bridesmaids/ groomsmen is quite a lot when you are keeping an eye on costs. Groomsmen can wear their own suits for a wedding and then you could provide a shirt and a white/burgundy/ silver tie so that they all match if you want. Bridesmaid dresses can be found in department stores, have a look at prom dresses rather than in the wedding department. You could buy simple white dresses and then add a silver or burgundy sash to the dress to bring in your colors.

The next big expense will be the food and entertainment.

Keep the food simple; a buffet with salads and cold meats or a fun bbq or picnic. Cake and Champagne receptions are gaining in popularity if you have an afternoon reception or a Cocktails and Canapes reception if it is in the evening (this can be time consuming in set up). Use your wedding cake as dessert to save money, no-one will notice.

Ask around for help with your wedding cake, do you know anyone who is good at baking? This could be their wedding gift to you.

Entertainment is one of those things that everyone will remember! See if you can find a local band or group that will be willing to perform at your wedding for the exposure rather than the money! Local colleges and bars are good for finding these.

It always helps to have lots of friends and family involved as they may be able to lend something for the wedding or know someone who can help with discounts.

Good luck with your plans

Suz