Money-Saving Tips for Military Weddings
photo provided by Sugar Daze
Summer is right around the corner, which means wedding bells will soon be ringing for many military members and their spouses to-be. Between the warmer weather and school being out, the season is a perfect time to hold a wedding. The only real drawback is the cost. Approximately 70% of weddings take place between May and October, which means summer weddings are pricier than those in the off-season. Whether you picked up extra babysitting jobs or turned to military lending to help offset wedding costs, it’s no surprise that every bride or groom is looking for a way to stretch every dollar.
We took a good look at some of the leading trends in money-saving tactics when it comes to planning weddings.
1. A sugar high without the sticker shock.
The wedding cake is the centerpiece of a wedding reception, but a six-tier cake can cost hundreds of dollars. Instead of ordering a large, ornate cake, ask the bakery if they can make a smaller version, as well as a sheet cake. Another money-saving alternative is to serve cupcakes instead of cake. You can even make them yourself or have the family “baker” whip them up to save additional money.
2. Sweet music at a sweet cost.
Instead of paying professional musicians to play at your ceremony and/or reception, consider hiring student musicians. They are often just as good as the pros, but cost a fraction of the price. Contact the local college’s music department for a list of referrals.
3. No fuss, low-cost bridal party attire.
Make things easier on your entire bridal party and their wallets by choosing an outfit that’s easy and inexpensive to find. A little black dress or cute sundress can be just as stylish as a fancy gown. The same goes for the groomsmen. Instead of buying or renting expensive tuxes, opt for a simple, but stylish black suit or go informal with white dress shirts and kakis.
4. Celebrate your big day on base.
Rather than shell out thousands of dollars to rent a church and reception venue, consider hosting your big day on base. Most military bases are perfect one-stop wedding shops since they have a chapel and banquet hall with a fully equipped kitchen.
5. Every military bride loves a man in uniform.
There’s no inexpensive substitute for a bridal dress — unless you decide to borrow one or go second-hand. However, military grooms can look just as dashing in their uniform as a coat and tails. Tuxedo rentals can cost upwards of $200 and buying one is even more expensive.
6. Get your DIY on.
There’s nothing in the bridal bible that says you can’t get creative and make your own decorations or wedding favors. Paper bouquets and homemade gifts, such as caramel apples or candles, are a popular wedding trend. Making these things doesn’t just save money either – it also adds a unique personal touch to the celebration.
Holding a military wedding during the busy season can be more expensive than other times of the year. But with a little creativity, flexibility, and time, you can make your wedding fantasy a reality and still have money left for a honeymoon!
Do you have another frugal way to make a military wedding magic? How did you save on your big day? Tell us your suggestions, thoughts, and stories!
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