Wedding bliss without toasting your budget

MADISON, Wis. (7/10/07)--U.S. couples spent an average of almost $27,000 to tie the knot in 2006, according to a study conducted by TheWeddingReport.com. It's easy to want to splurge, but there are ways to stay within budget (MarketWatch May 13):

• Consider shopping at a consignment store. You may find a gorgeous dress for a fraction of the cost of buying it new. But keep in mind that consignment shops might carry only limited sizes and might not offer alterations.
• Choose party favors wisely. Do your guests really want candles wrapped in lace? Try giving them something they might really use--like chocolate.
• Employ a photography student to document your wedding.
• Buy in-season, local flowers and food to avoid shipping costs.
  

Teddy Lenderman, author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Perfect Wedding," also suggests:

• Find a location that is meaningful to you--a ski hill in the spring, a local garden in the fall, a family member's home around the holidays, or your house of worship.
• Borrow items such as the cake knife, toast goblets, or ring pillow from family or friends.
• Use photographs as pew decorations instead of flowers. You can save a bundle.
  

For more information, read "Say 'I Do' Without the Debt" in Home & Family Finance Resource Center.

courtesy of cuna.org