To-Do’s that Save on your “I Dos”
We asked Boulder-based wedding consultant Heather Dwight, owner of event-planning company Calluna Events, for some tips to keep the bottom line manageable on the big day.
1. Dress for Less
Local bridal salons often host trunk shows where gown designers bring in their latest looks and offer a 10 to 15 percent discount if you snap up a dress that day. Try d’Anelli Bridal and Tux in Lakewood. (Calluna Events note – check out Anna Be in the Highlands or the Bridal Collection in Denver for their trunk show schedule). Or peruse a few high-end consignment shops for huge markdowns on once-worn designer dresses.
2. Do It Yourself
Dropping $15 apiece on printed place cards that end up on the floor spattered with cake frosting at the end of the night is excessive. Printing up even 100 or so of these would rack up $1,500 – for place cards! Instead try a DIY option for your stationery. Visit Vintage Glam Weddings (http://www.vintageglamblog.com/) for adorable DIY inspiration on everything from invitations to decorations to party favors.
3. Flower Power
Choose decorations that are easily transportable from church to party. For example, floral arrangements on the altar can easily double as entryway décor at the reception. And, look for seasonal flowers that are grown locally – less expensive than shipping in. (Calluna Events note – and more eco-friendly too!)
4. Cocktail Cuts
Shortening your cocktail hour is an oft-overlooked way to save megabucks on your alcohol. Instead of an hour, go for 45 minutes. Your guest will never know, and 15 minutes saves a drink per guest. (More if your wedding is doubling as a college fraternity reunion.) At dinner, consider skipping the bubbly; many folks don’t care for Champagne, so why not have them toast with whatever they’re drinking? Also forgo the passed wine or stationary bottles. Guests likely won’t consume as much if they have to order from the bar or wait staff.
Thanks for reading!
Heather
Xo
Calluna Events
Colorado Wedding Planner
