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Cat:336d8010-1fcd-4410-9356-c39e985527ec

low cost

DIY Brides

low cost

<font color="#ffffff">Whether you're super-crafty or just budget-savvy, share your project ideas and inspirations here.</font>

False

DIY Brides

low cost

<font color="#ffffff">Whether you're super-crafty or just budget-savvy, share your project ideas and inspirations here.</font>

Cat:336d8010-1fcd-4410-9356-c39e985527ecForum:b38a16ad-2c85-4da7-a6df-12f9509348be

Cat:336d8010-1fcd-4410-9356-c39e985527ecForum:b38a16ad-2c85-4da7-a6df-12f9509348beDiscussion:57ca5539-82fc-442a-9275-6a5d868d379f

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Forums > General Wedding Planning Topics > DIY Brides > low cost

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Forums > General Wedding Planning Topics > DIY Brides > low cost

low cost

posted at 10/4/2009 4:52 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

brideof2010

Joined on
09-28-2009
INDIANA

5283896944494201

Posts: 23

First: 9/28/2009

Last: 10/17/2009

What is the least a person can spend on a traditional wedding and reception. I'm only planning on spending approx. $2000 dollars on both the ceremoy and reception and so far things are staying in that region. I look forward to taking pictures and such, I think it will still be elegant even though i am not going to spend as much as others...

David's Wifey

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/4/2009 5:22 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

amandacj

Joined on
07-10-2009
CENTRAL FLORIDA

4030828241267932

Posts: 219

First: 7/10/2009

Last: 11/20/2009

You can do a wedding for as little as the cost of the license and the JP. All that really matters is the bride and groom making that commitment. Everything else is fluff. Yep, the dress, venues, food, pictures, flowers... all fluff. The key is not letting people guilt you into spending more than you can. People will hound you with stuff like... "you can't get married without a big fancy dress", or "you can't get married without roses", or "what kind of wedding doesn't have a dj"... just smile and politely say thanks, but no thanks. Some people will be more pushy than others, but if you make a solid plan early and stick to it then you will do just fine. Concentrate your money on the parts that will make you "feel" married and don't even think about the rest. Good luck!!

~Amanda

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/4/2009 5:29 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

bdawn8403

Joined on
03-11-2007
WEST VIRGINIA

630276637505759

Posts: 244

First: 8/5/2009

Last: 11/21/2009

Mine is going to be about $2500-3000. The most expensive parts are my dress and the food. Its going to be nice but not rich and fancy. I'm having no more than 75 guests and our wedding ceremony and reception is at a local hotel. They set down with us and worked out a package for us considering our budget. They were very nice about it. My only problem is I don't have a photographer and I refuse to pay someone hundreds of $ to do something that either my fiance or I could very well do ourselves (we are photographers) so we are going to have our own cameras during the reception, just looking to find someone to do the posed shots and everything else should be good to go.

*The Future Mrs. Wile*

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/4/2009 9:07 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

cbm06263

Joined on
01-02-2006
CONNECTICUT

544217262507448

Posts: 89

First: 5/7/2009

Last: 11/7/2009

Hi,
I think it depends on your area.It cost me around $500.00 or so but after the dress and everything was $750.00. And I only had 30 guest at my wedding.But it was what we wanted and could afford.And that is the big thing.Do what you can afford.

Cindy

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/5/2009 9:05 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

CJSmiles2010

Joined on
02-21-2009
ST. LOUIS

9713708123238201

Posts: 84

First: 10/1/2009

Last: 11/19/2009

My ceremony site is going to be about $60 and my reception is going to be about $2000. We are going to need to rent chairs and maybe some decor for the ceremony site since it is going to be in a park but for about $2100 to 2200 Fi and I are going to get our's done.

My guest count is at 100. All in all our budget is $5000. We got a deal for the photographer for $640 and we get the negatives and she makes the photo album for us. I am going to do silk floral for the bridal party that my photographer introduces me to someone to do them for me for a couple hundred.

Mrs. in 2010 :)

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/6/2009 5:22 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

tonyandmichelle

Joined on
10-02-2009
ORANGE COUNTY

5459900827167092

Posts: 28

First: 10/2/2009

Last: 10/16/2009

Saving money on the wedding means putting more towards the rest of your lives together!

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/30/2009 9:15 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

jennlynn111

Joined on
10-13-2009
ST. LOUIS

5147910480779296

Posts: 4

First: 10/18/2009

Last: 10/30/2009

We're starting to price things out for our wedding and it's been extremely frustrating after speaking with several vendors. Many of them (especially photographers and DJs) make you feel guilty for wanting to be budget-conscious.

I've had some actually say, if it's about the money, go with someone else, otherwise I'd be more than happy to give you a price. How is it not about money? Obvioulsy, I believe it to be important enough to look to an outside vendor instead of Uncle Joe.

Sorry to vent, but I don't think vendors should make you feel that you can't have something nice and still affordable.

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/31/2009 2:00 AM CDT on weddingchannel.com

cukimerrydoll

Joined on
09-28-2009
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL

7959897760990851

Posts: 69

First: 10/12/2009

Last: 11/19/2009

It all depends on the guest list.

For the venues alone on a 250 guest wedding, I'm probably going to spend about $2500-$3000. But my reception venue has set ups for the DJ, so all I really have to do is plug in my computer and press play.

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Re: low cost

posted at 10/31/2009 5:35 PM CDT on weddingchannel.com

ublawschoolbrid...

Joined on
06-20-2009
SAN DIEGO

5393811195730317

Posts: 252

First: 7/10/2009

Last: 11/21/2009

In Response to Re: low cost:

We're starting to price things out for our wedding and it's been extremely frustrating after speaking with several vendors. Many of them (especially photographers and DJs) make you feel guilty for wanting to be budget-conscious. I've had some actually say, if it's about the money, go with someone else, otherwise I'd be more than happy to give you a price. How is it not about money? Obvioulsy, I believe it to be important enough to look to an outside vendor instead of Uncle Joe. Sorry to vent, but I don't think vendors should make you feel that you can't have something nice and still affordable.
Posted by jennlynn111

You can find good deals, you just need to look around. I found great deals on just about everything. If you really like someone's work but they're over your budget just ask. In this economy its amazing what some vendors are willing to do. I had my caterer knock off $2 per meal (Coming down to only $14 a person), my photographer knocked off $100, my DJ threw in free lights, my videographer threw in extra DVDs. I know its a little weird to ask for a discount, but its worth a try. GOod luck!

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/2/2009 6:47 AM CST on weddingchannel.com

LizK

Joined on
07-31-2009
SAN ANTONIO

8788846459773110

Posts: 39

First: 8/10/2009

Last: 11/11/2009

I wish mine was cheaper. My mother keeps adding things, she wants a videographer, that's the latest thing, 650. Budget WAS 5000 -the church is charging 1300, flowers 800, cakes this was a big splurge-900, but they are awesome. Photography is cheap, 700, supper reception about 2000 for 90 people. We'll see what else gets added. Parents are paying for all that, they can add what they want then. I paid for my dress and the invitations and stamps- total, about 450. And I am buying engagement pictures for everybody for Christmas:)

I think the reception and photography are usually the biggest expense.

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/7/2009 9:06 AM CST on weddingchannel.com

lisernav

Joined on
09-20-2009
VERMONT

6892890568768391

Posts: 29

First: 10/20/2009

Last: 11/19/2009

Mine will be about 8,000. We started planning on doing much of the work ourselves but quickly realized that we wanted to enjoy our time with family and friends so we changed our budget. The 8000 includes the rehearsal evening which will be a cookout and breakfast the day after the wedding. It also includes a photographer, my dress, a DJ etc..

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/8/2009 9:56 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

crystal527

Joined on
09-22-2009
HOUSTON

4024891758267732

Posts: 4

First: 11/1/2009

Last: 11/8/2009

I am trying not to go over 5,000 for mine. I am from a large city and I noticed that when you go outside of the city, things get much cheaper. Unfortunately it is going to require some guests to travel about an hour out of their way, but this allowed us to have more bang for our buck.

Another idea is to get some friends to help with some aspects. If you ask around, you will be surprised who people know. I never would have known if I hadn't asked around, but I found some friends who knew people that could help out with things such as hair, makeup, DJ, photographs, and food.

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/9/2009 10:42 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

cukimerrydoll

Joined on
09-28-2009
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL

7959897760990851

Posts: 69

First: 10/12/2009

Last: 11/19/2009

That's amazing. We're trying to keep it at about $15,000 including everything. But our families (just aunts, uncles and cousins) brings us to almost 200 people.

We're finding ways to cut costs by spreading out a lot of the expenses to when certian items are on sale, no matter how far the date is. I'm 10 months away from the wedding, but I had some decor items before the venues were set.

At the very least, it's helping me from getting overwhelmed. I actually just got the first part of the bridesmaids' gifts this weekend (my MOH helped me pick... but for what it is, I'm glad she did!). It's one more thing off the giant checklist, and - CHA CHING! - we found a sale.

I'm mostly trying to do everything in my power to keep things almost as low cost as possible.

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/10/2009 5:45 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

lisernav

Joined on
09-20-2009
VERMONT

6892890568768391

Posts: 29

First: 10/20/2009

Last: 11/19/2009

I know my family and friends think I am crazy but I have been collecting the 40% off coupons to a local craft store every other week (that's discounted on one item) Each time you use the coupon you get a 50% off coupon for the next week. I bring as many people as I have coupons into the store hand out a coupon and cash and have been collecting items for the wedding.

I have purchased the jars, scoops bags, ties and all decoration for my candy buffet. I have purchased the vases for my center pieces, my aisle runner etc...

It takes a little planning and time but I really have been able to plan to do things that I would not be able to have with my budget. If you can find friends and family willing to help out and the coupons it works.

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/11/2009 9:07 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

Sweets7

Joined on
10-28-2009
ORANGE COUNTY

8880923568933401

Posts: 2

First: 11/11/2009

Last: 11/11/2009

I live in Orange County so the costs are much higher for vendors,etc.
What can I do to have someone help me with the ceremony,setting up,and organizing everything because i won't be there until i walk down the isle.
I am having an outdoor wedding.
Please help thank you.

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low cost

posted at 11/12/2009 5:53 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

FutureMrs.Cook

Joined on
11-04-2009
ATLANTA

8820929536690718

Posts: 1

First: 11/12/2009

Last: 11/12/2009

I have around 150-200 on the guest list and no actual budget because as of right now I have no money. lol

my ceremony and reception are both being held at my family's church with the added bonus of a free officiant (my grandfather). My grandma is working on reworking my mothers dress, but if it doesnt work there are some Bridal Consignment shops I will probably go to. They are awesome because most of them have last season awesomeness and already altered dresses (im short) that are my height. and they are hundreds of dollars cheaper!

my cake will be made by Publix and the food by a friend of the family who owns a resturant. thrift store sport coats for the guys and cute green coctail dresses for the girs (only 2 BM and 2 Gms) so it keeps things low on that end.

i already bought my BM presents... found a sale at a cute boutique. for $25 got some really adoreable girly things for a grabbag of goodies.

all our entertainment will be friends in rockbands who play because they love us.

yes im sad i cant have a photographer or videographer... but hell if we buy a few disposable cameras and use the few digital ones in our fam we are sure to get at leats a few awesome shots.

yes i wish i could have a dress i picked out of hundreds at a pricy salon... but instead im just happy we can get married nad have our love enjoyed by others.

Shannon Laughy
and
William Cook

sharing Laughs and
Cooking up love!!!!

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/13/2009 9:54 AM CST on weddingchannel.com

RebMik

Joined on
01-10-2007
ATLANTA

908357887507521

Posts: 182

First: 8/10/2009

Last: 11/20/2009

In Response to Re: low cost:

I know my family and friends think I am crazy but I have been collecting the 40% off coupons to a local craft store every other week (that's discounted on one item) Each time you use the coupon you get a 50% off coupon for the next week. I bring as many people as I have coupons into the store hand out a coupon and cash and have been collecting items for the wedding. I have purchased the jars, scoops bags, ties and all decoration for my candy buffet. I have purchased the vases for my center pieces, my aisle runner etc... It takes a little planning and time but I really have been able to plan to do things that I would not be able to have with my budget. If you can find friends and family willing to help out and the coupons it works.
Posted by lisernav

I am glad I am not the only one doing this! I think some of the cashiers think we are crazy, but who cares! We are getting the discount the right way!

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/13/2009 3:05 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

jenielle_lambre...

Joined on
02-05-2009
WYOMING

7114694703403032

Posts: 9

First: 10/8/2009

Last: 11/18/2009

It can be done Very easily . I completely agree with amandacj . It is fluff adn sometimes it is more beautiful than if it is overdone and this also gives you so many more chances to add personal touches.

Being yound and paying for the entire wedding on our own I was in the position where I will save for anything in particular that I want . We allready have everything thing we need reception and venue wise and decorations and food and deserts bugeted.
Even after buying a 1700 dollar wedding gown and bm dresses at 300 apeice ( I didn't want my bm too) We have spent a grand total of 4 500 hundred dolars , and that is including a four tier black fondont wedding cake and the most beautiful centerpeices palnned and all supplies bought, it also includes a beautiful venue , I mean everything.So realize that after my required fluff ( dresses and venue and reception ) I spent lest than a couple hundred on flowers cake and everything else. And you would never oknow ( at least not with what we have finished so far!

It helps that my mom used to run a flower shop and is doing all of the flowers , but chances are you know many talented people around you who would be willing to do the same , orbe surprised at how talented you may be . I am doing lfowers in real feel plastics (instead of silk)because they look completely real in photos, which you can do from hobby lobby . just buy them here and there throughout your engagement and before you know it you have enough and you can keep you beauquet forever!

there are options like this for nearly everypart of your ceremony and reception ! Like an I pod DJ , "fake cake" to add tiers to your cake, talking to photography students who look for work for thier portfolios (then you are helping them out) I'd love you give you some more ideas , but I don't want to fill the page, you can always contact me!
O and with my budget I have to include- we have nearly 180 guests! you can do it your wedding will be beautiful!

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Re: low cost

posted at 11/19/2009 8:14 PM CST on weddingchannel.com

809667970454397...

Joined on
01-19-2009
LOS ANGELES

8096679704543975

Posts: 8

First: 11/13/2009

Last: 11/19/2009

In Response to Re: low cost:

I know my family and friends think I am crazy but I have been collecting the 40% off coupons to a local craft store every other week (that's discounted on one item) Each time you use the coupon you get a 50% off coupon for the next week. I bring as many people as I have coupons into the store hand out a coupon and cash and have been collecting items for the wedding. I have purchased the jars, scoops bags, ties and all decoration for my candy buffet. I have purchased the vases for my center pieces, my aisle runner etc... It takes a little planning and time but I really have been able to plan to do things that I would not be able to have with my budget. If you can find friends and family willing to help out and the coupons it works.
Posted by lisernav

LMAO!!! I am doing the exact same thing with the coupons! hey if its not out of your way the better. i try and stop at least once a week, grab what i need, use my 40% off and go. i think however you can save is def a plus!

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