From a Formal, Yet Frugal Groom

by Kyle
(Bloomington, IL, USA)

Most wedding sites simply don't have enough input for grooms so here it is, words from the groom.

It's tough to save money on a wedding. With the average cost of a wedding skyrocketing above $20,000 dollars it may seem impossible to have your dream wedding on any kind of responsible budget. It doesn't have to be that way.

My fiancee and I have been saving money without cutting corners on what counts. That's the important part, what counts. Decide with your partner what is important to you and prioritize. List the big ticket items of any wedding; sites, food/beverage, music, dress, flowers, etc... Then decide where you will spend the majority of your budget

For example my fiancee and I are having a very formal evening event. We have spent big money on the dress, trust me more than I would've liked, photography, and a great venue.

To cut down on cost and to avoid the bland wedding food that we always hate we're having an appetizer reception. The food will be good and plentiful, but no plated beef here!

Our guests will be free to socialize and enjoy tasty treats that fit our style. Since our ceremony is outside flowers will be limited too since the outdoors will provide the beautiful setting.

Anyone can have the wedding that fits their style. It's just a matter of prioritizing. Make a list and talk with each other often. Whether you believe it or not a lot of the fun is in planning an event that will reflect your personal styles without starting your lives in debt.

Note from Karen: Thanks Kyle! Feel free to stop by any time and offer some words of wisdom from the groom's point of view!