How to Have a Low Cost Wedding

It is estimated that the average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is just above $22,000. The expense leads many to take on an extra job or even take on the cost as a form of debt. For those couples wanting to minimize wedding expenses, there are many possibilities, including focusing on the reception - typically the biggest expense of a wedding.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Keep your guest list to a minimum. It will reduce the size of space you'll need and the number of people to feed.

2. Hold your reception at a friend or family member's home, a restaurant or park. These venues can be much less expensive than a hotel, country club or private spot.

3. Opt for cocktails and hors d' hoeuvres or a buffet dinner over a three-course meal.

4. Serve beer, wine and soft drinks rather than a full open bar.

5. Dress for less. Rather than spending top-dollar for an extravagant designer gown, consider buying an affordable dress off the rack, wearing a formal gown or cocktail dress on your big day, renting your wedding wardrobe or buy a used gown in like-new condition.

6. Enlist family and friends to take photos, hiring a pro only for the ceremony.

7. Print your own wedding invitations from your own home PC. Many companies are now offering modern and classy designs at affordable, do-it-yourself rates.

8. Buy wholesale flowers, or pick stems from a flower garden.

9. Stick with simple gold or silver wedding bands.

Tips & Warnings

• The sky is the limit in regard to wedding expenses. Set a limit for yourselves and ask for the creativity of family and friends to help you to stick to it.