Weddings are wonderful. A lot of people think weddings have to be expensive, but that is not so. It is possible to have a very lovely wedding without going in to debt. This article offers wonderful ideas that will save time, money and stress.

To save money, choose a date that is not when most people typically get married. The wedding season runs from May until September. These are the times when wedding venues are most expensive. If you plan on getting married during these months, plan as early as you can for the lowest cost.

When you plan your wedding, be sure to think about cost effective alcohol options. If there’s a bar that’s open, it can be expensive, especially the longer it’s open. See what other serving options are available for your alcohol.

Going online to purchase your wedding dress can save you a small fortune. However, you should make sure that you order it well before the big day in order to allow time for any alterations to be carried out should they be needed. I bought my gorgeous gown online for only $150, but it cost me another $200 to have it altered to fit me perfectly. The cost of an alteration should also be included in your budget.

Booking a venue for your wedding can be extremely expensive. If someone you know has a nice backyard or a large farm, this can save a lot of money. Offer to pay a person to do the clean-up before and after the wedding, which would be the only cost for you.

Spice up your wedding reception by choosing an ethnic inspired menu. Chicken, steak and such are served at weddings all the time. Why not do something different? Make sure that your wedding feast is something that everyone will remember for years to come.

Do not starve just so your wedding dress fits. All you are going to do is tire very easily and not have the energy to enjoy the big day you have been torturing yourself to plan. You don’t need to faint during the ceremony. Purchase a dress that will hug your curves and fit you well the way you are.

Instead of spending too much for a large wedding cake, opt instead for one that is comprised of multiple layers of mini tarts or sweet cupcakes. These arrangements are beloved for their affordable price range, versatility, and convenience. Allow guests to pick a couple out and place them in a personalized cardboard container.

Think about asking your family if they want to stay for the honeymoon. This will help save money and you may get a better discount. Your guests will have a memorable trip as well.

Receptions are best held in the early afternoon. Most people will drink less during the day, which will cut back on the cost to fill the bar. The costs of lunch are far more affordable than catered dinners. Therefore, you can afford to step up your menu or divert that part of your budget to another area, such as floral arrangements or wedding favors.

If you wish to have a wedding cake that stands out and is a focal point in your reception, you may want to consider a matching piece of fabric. A pretty tablecloth made of textured fabric, velvet, shiny satin or a lace that matches the wedding dress are all nice choices.

It may take a bit more time and effort to plan an affordable wedding, but it is well worth the effort. Use the advice you’ve just been given to create a wonderful wedding day full of joy and happiness.