I WANT TO GET MARRIED but.... WE HAVE NO MONEY!!!!

There is more to life than the courthouse steps. I run into so many people who want to get married , but just don't have the money for the lavish affair. These people tell me things like I am just going to go to the courthouse and maybe we will do something later. Here is the truth NO YOU WONT. Most people will not go back and spend the money once the marriage happens. Honestly it just doesn't make much sense to. So here are a few suggestions my budget brides can do ( depending on budget) to make it happen and make it beautiful!!!

FIRST THINGS FIRST!!! Your wedding is about YOU and the Groom. No one else. So unless there is someone else paying or helping take all advice for what it is advice. Do what makes you happy and do what you can afford. Everyones budget is different so I will talk about three different options. The small wedding, the destination wedding/elopement and the there's no place like home wedding.

THE SMALL WEDDING
You want to get married , but you have less than 5 grand to make this happen. NO WORRIES there is a wedding for you , but just a small one. Make a list of the people who HAVE to be there. Once you have that number start to call local banquet halls that either have all inclusive packages or ones that let you do your own catering. Let them know what your budget is. Tell them you have $2500. ( you still need money for shoes, dresses rings etc.) Let them know your number and many will tell you what they can and can not do.

Utilize small businesses!!! Many times they charge less and do just as good of a job. You would use these people for cake, photography, invitations. Consider nixing the full meal or buffet and do heavy apps. It is less expensive, but people still get something and you can make this look very nice! People who know you and love you more than likely are familiar with your budget and will not be offended.

If you decide to do a small wedding and your own catering consider hiring a private caterer. (small business) They charge a lot less than banquet halls and high end caterers. Instead of $30 a plate your getting maybe  $10 to $12 a plate for food that most times tastes a whole lot better.

DIY ....Let that internet work for you find friends and family to help you!!! For flowers do a single rose pass for bridesmaids OR use their bouqets to double as centerpieces. It works and it saves !!!! Finally stay realistic and  stay on  budget. It is an important day but it is just one day and you have to remember that.

THE DESTINATION/ELOPEMENT
A destination wedding is not always cheaper, but it can get you more for your money. Find an all inclusive resort. Sandals is a popular one, and they usually give you your wedding for free if you book a certain type of room with them. Let your potential guests know your going at least six months in advance. Everyone you hope for won't be able to make it, but it will be beautiful and intimate and you get to make a honeymoon out of it!!! The great thing about all inclusive is you don't have to worry about additional costs to feed or provide liquor to your guests. They get a vacation and you  have a beautiful moment to remember.

Elopements are popular. If you have to exclude too many people sometimes it is just best to do something special with the two of you. Again the all inclusive hotel is perfect for this. After the elopement you can send an announcement and let people know you have tied the knot!! You can even consider having an informal gathering to celebrate.

THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Do you have a beautiful home? Why not use it?? If  your budget is non existent you can make this happen. Determine a ceremony spot, back yard , fireplace etc... invite very close friends and immediate family just depending on how big your home is. Get a small cake, contact a local church or use your priest. See if you  can get a few friends or family to help prepare an intimate meal and check out Costco for your wedding flowers. YES THEY DO THEM!!!! If you can not afford a expensive wedding dress , check clearance dresses or just find a nice white dress you can wear. Utilize candles as decor it makes it very intimate and waa laa!! You have a beautiful intimate setting without the exorbent costs.

Remember having a wedding does not have to be expensive! You just have to think outside the box!