Ok, so she's told you how much the wedding's going to cost, you've had a cry and a little sleep, and now you're ready to learn how to cut costs. Well, my friend, it can be done, but you're going to have to dry those tears and be a man.
Fantasy to reality
Now, you have to realize that the wife-to-be has been fantasizing about this day since she was knee-high. Over the years, she has imagined her perfect day down to the last detail, and then encrusted everything with diamonds. You first task is to bring her down to earth, but make sure it's a gentle landing.
DIY loopholes
Painful as it may be, you'll have to engage with the wedding plans, and look for loopholes. Try not to contort your face when confronted with the cost of flowers and party favors, remember to be enthusiastic at all times or Bridezilla may emerge and flatten Tokyo. Suggest that she could get together with her best girls and have a great "craft night in" constructing 250 identical party favors or self-printing 250 name cards. Do not use the word .sweatshop. and remember to phone in support when her fingers are hurting after having made only ten.
Flowers die,but debt is immortal
The price of flowers, especially the Andean orchids that'll be a perfect match for her nails on the Big Day, is usually extortionate. You may be tempted to suggest flicking paint around the venues as a colourful substitute. This suggestion will cause distress, so keep your peace and know that you need less flowers than your florist or fiancee tell you that you need. Also, try to go local and with seasonal blooms to avoid added shipping costs and hothouse fees.
Out of season,out of mind?
Now, if you can convince her out of the summer-wedding-or-bust mindset, you'll probably save big time thanks to an off-season deal from your chosen venue. Help bring her round by asking, "What's so special about being one of six brides getting married the same day?" If that doesn't wash ask her about changing the ceremony to an off day, such as Sunday. If she doesn't like that idea either, push for combining the ceremony and reception at the same venue.
Sack the help
For the reception, consider a buffet style dinner that will save on the cost of servers. Hire a hog roast and pretend you're a medieval king. Also, check if the venue and caterer will allow you to bring your own booze (if so, jump on deals at your local supermarket), and only offer beer and wine - liquor will break the bank.
Is distant family really family?
Guests are an expensive but necessary part of the whole wedding circus, but does she really need to invite all those second cousins? Do you? Also, why does she have ten bridesmaids to your three groomsmen? Ask her to be a little more choosy (remind her of Kate.s underhand tactics in the race for class president) as this will save on costly bridesmaid dresses.
Open with caution
Finally, while we're on the subject of dresses, could she possibly pick up her designer wedding dress at a sale? Or, better still, get her to try the dress on and then take a picture from the designer's website to a skilled seamstress. You'll save a small fortune that can then be put back into beer, or saved for future beer when you're married.
