When you are brainstorming ways to trim wedding-related costs, there is an avenue that is often overlooked. In a job hunt, there is the familiar expression, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know”. The same rings true as you seek out your wedding vendors. Whether it is seeking a recommendation for a photographer, or asking your aunt (a talented seamstress) to make your dress, your acquaintances are your most valuable resource.
Vendor connection
For most people, your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, which is why you look for the best of the best. If you have family and friends who have gotten married recently, chat with them about their experiences with their wedding vendors. Did they feel like they received a quality product or service for the price? Take guidance from brides and grooms who have experienced the entire process and may be able to advise you on the areas that ended up being most important to them. If they had good experiences with their vendors, chances are they keep in touch using social media. Tap into their feeds to see if they would be a good fit for you, and also to monitor any sales or specials they may be offering. [divider]
Lending talents
Chances are you have a connection to somebody in the wedding industry, whether it is a personal relationship, or through a family member or friend. If not, you may have an acquaintance who has professional experience in a related field, such as a musician, artist or interior designer, who would be willing to help you achieve your dream wedding. Whether they are able to provide their service without cost or at a reduced rate, you can definitely expect to see savings on your bottom line. [divider]
Depend on your bridal party
Hopefully you have chosen some awesome bridesmaids and groomsmen to not only stand by your side on the wedding day, but to lend support throughout the wedding planning process. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help with wedding tasks you are up for tackling on your own. Is your maid of honor super organized and a go-getter? Ask her to act as your wedding planner. Plan a bridesmaids day, where you can all work together to recreate some killer centerpieces that you saw on Pinterest. You can even ask the groomsmen to drop off your wedding-day decor at your wedding venue. Your bridal party will be excited to chip in and once again, the more personal touches are part of your wedding, the more special it will be! [divider]
Don’t forget to check back for more tips in our money saving series!
