Let’s face it, weddings are expensive. So anywhere that you can cut back on costs is a win. As engagement season approaches, Clean Origin will calm your nerves with a list of small ways that will help you save big from the proposal to the moment you say “I do.”
1. Go Lab-Grown
If you haven’t heard about lab-grown diamonds already, then you’re in luck. These diamonds (that are identical to mined diamonds) can save you 20-40 percent on an engagement ring. Grown in a lab using new technology, the only difference you’ll be able to find in these diamonds is where they originated. Make sure you find a company that features lab-grown stones in their engagement and wedding bands. Pro tip: Buy a bridal set from the get go. It will save you time in the long run.
2. Save Big on Florals
When you talk with someone about planning a wedding, you’re bound to hear some version of, “Who knew flowers were so expensive?” Thankfully there are many ways in which you can cut down on those outlandish costs. As with most other wedding details, you can start by doing them yourself instead of hiring a florist. If you have a day-of wedding planner, you can probably have them assemble them, as well. Depending on how large your wedding is, you could also just head to a local nursery or even hit up a few Trader Joes’ and buy all the flowers at the store.
The other option is to mix it up from just using florals. Add lots of greenery (often times much cheaper than flowers), sprinkle in candles, borrow house plants, and even throw in some fruit. When stylized nicely, it can make walkways and center pieces look even better than just a vase of roses.
3. Take Monday Off
Opt for the Sunday wedding. No matter what day of the weekend you get married, it’s likely that most of your guests will already be taking off one day of work. Instead of Friday, have them take off Monday and get hitched on Sunday. This can cut down on venue costs by almost 50 percent in some cases. Pro tip: Don’t do this during football season.
4. Let Guests Pick
Buffets are the way to go when it comes to feeding a large group of people, which also cuts costs. However, you could even take it one step further and get a food truck. These are becoming more and more popular, particularly with more casual weddings.
5. Cut the Cake
Unless you really, really love cake, there’s really no need to purchase a huge, 3-tier cake that also takes a caterer to cut (often this is charged, too). Opt for something easy to grab and more diversely liked, such as donuts or cupcakes.
Individually, these may not seem like they would save you tons of money, but the savings add up quickly when you’re smart about all the little elements of a wedding.
