The Perfect Bride

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Planning your dream wedding can be a stressful and overwhelming process; throw in a tight budget and the situation looks bleak sometimes. That’s why Madison Bride is here to help you along your wedding planning journey. With tips, tricks, and guides to help you plan your perfect day, from staying on budget to finding the perfect venue for your big day, you’ll find it all here at Madison Bride.

One of the first things a newly engaged couple must consider is the budget on their wedding day. If you’re thinking a platinum-priced wedding on even a moderate budget just can’t be done, you’re wrong. Get an all inclusive wedding for the most unforgettable and happiest event of your new life together. Madison Bride has a few tips to help you slash costs while still having the elegant wedding and reception you’ve been dreaming of.

One simple way to cut wedding costs is creating your own invitations, stationary, and save the date cards. Designing them yourself not only saves you some cash, but it gives you total creativity to reflect the two of you as a couple. Browse online for DIY wedding templates for downloadable fonts and scripts to customize a unique invitation.

Another way to save on your big day is to pick flowers from a garden or field. Forgo the pricey florist and choose flowers from mom’s garden or a field of wildflowers. Wrap stems with beautiful ribbons or add a jeweled broach for something special. In addition to using flowers from the garden, consider throwing the whole wedding there. Planning a wedding at home cuts costs you’d pay at a public venue and reception site, plus you won’t be inhibited by the restrictions of a public venue which could save you even more.

The most obvious way to cut wedding costs is to edit your guest list. Your big day is a sacred event that only those close to you should be honored enough to attend. Don’t stress about inviting your stylist or the neighbor across the street if it means stretching your budget to an uncomfortable capacity. Keeping your ceremony intimate and quaint will not only free up extra funds needed elsewhere, but chances are you’ll feel much better with the outcome.

Catering can be a big cost on the big day, so you may want to consider a simple cocktail reception instead of a multi-course meal. Replace a formal seated meal with passed hors d’oeuvres. If you want a more party-like feel, pass on table service so guests are up and mingling. Another way to save on food and drink is to limit the bar to beer and wine or only offer a signature wedding cocktail to drastically reduce the bar tab. You’ll also save a significant amount of money by having your event on an off day of the week. Consider having it on a Sunday evening or Friday afternoon. A few other advantages of having your affair on an off day are cheaper hotel and airfare for guests and discounts from vendors.

Something more and more brides are opting to do is nix the bridal party in lieu of money saved. Think about it- you’ll save on bouquets, boutonnieres, thank you gifts and more. If you’d still like to incorporate friends ask them to wear a special color or read a poem. You can also ask a friend to create a wedding day look for you. Just make sure to schedule a few test runs before the big day to make sure you’re both on the same page for your wedding day look.

Lastly, consider going vintage and buying a beautiful gown from a consignment shop. You can find great deals on designer labels at resale wedding salons. You can also update an heirloom gown by taking it to an alterations shop and having them replace old buttons, adjust the hem and even change the neckline.

Madison Bride is here to be the guidance and support you need to plan your perfect day. Visit us often for fresh, new ideas to help you plan your wedding your way.