As we approach the most popular time of year to hold nuptials I thought it was fitting to use this frugal hack post to talk about some of the easiest ways to save money on a upcoming wedding. But these tips aren’t from me specifically because I just pretty much showed up in a monkey suit and said “I do.” But I have gotten several emails from folks looking for tips on how to save on weddings and I assume that is why you found this article. So…here are some tips from folks that know a hell of a lot more about the subject than me.

What Day to Get Married

This one is simple.

Get married any day but Saturday and keep a bunch of your own money in your pocket.

You can easily save 20-30% by getting married on a Sunday afternoon or Friday evening.

Also, if you are the infancy stages of planning your wedding consider bypassing the prime wedding season and do something in autumn.

You’re going to find that everything will be cheaper, not just the venue. (Source: Real Simple Magazine)

Call on Talented Friends

Consider using a friend who is also an ordained minister to perform the wedding ceremony.

We all know one right?

Make sure they are witty, yet professional.

Also, if you have friends who are talented musicians consider hiring them to play at the reception.

You can save significant money by hitting up your talented friend pool. (Source: Lifehacker.com)

Save BIG on Booze

You have a couple options when it comes to saving money on alcohol.

Instead of offering a full bar, save a bundle by only offering beer, wine, and champagne. Also, the recent trend of offering “Signature” cocktails is a really cool idea.

Essentially you have a few signature drinks that use the same liquor.

For example, if you only have to buy vodka for your signature drinks you can save a lot on the bar tab.  (Source: Real Simple Magazine)

See Also: Costco Alcohol: 4 Must-Knows Before You Buy

How To Score a Wedding Dress Bargain

Recently there was a lot of Internet buzz over the $99 wedding dress from H&M.

Ladies overwhelmingly said they would wear a $99 dress that was fashionable.

If you can’t find such a deal check out something called a Sample Sale which is when a dress designer tries to unload a bunch of old inventory for pennies on the dollar.

Do a Google search for sample sales in your area and see what you can find.

I think you’ll be surprised with the amazing savings, often up to 80% off the original dress price.

Wedding Cake Deals

Go low and save. The taller the cake the more labor and the higher the costs.

Consider a small cake for the reception and a big ol’ sheet cake for all your guests.

Be sure to also check out this wedding cake someone made using Costco sheet cakes.

Also, use real lace or ribbon around the cake and avoid the pipping costs…which are HUGE.  (Source: Real Simple Magazine)

Need a Smaller Guest List?

“Quick tips for whittling your guest list: Omit children and coworkers (making cuts categorically is less likely to cause rifts); and when it comes to couples, invite spouses, fiances, and live-ins only.”  (Source: Martha Stewart Weddings)

Save on Hotel Rooms

“Do a little detective work to find the best rate on hotel rooms for your guests.

Many people reserve a block of rooms thinking they’re getting a special rate, but they’re just ensuring that rooms will be available, says Goldberg.

Check out several discount travel websites to score a deal.”  (Source: Bridal Guide)

Save Big on Flowers

Consider making your own centerpieces, if not for the actual wedding, then perhaps for the rehearsal dinner.

Use seasonal flowers as they are readily available and cost friendly. Are you familiar with cascading bouquets and centerpieces?

Avoid them at all costs as they are very labor intensive and expensive.  (Source: Real Simple Magazine)

How to Get a Photographer on the Cheap

Pick your photo package carefully.

Do you really need the 750 picture package when the 350 might work?

Talk to friends (with similar spending habits) who have recently been wed and pick their brains on what package they chose.

Also, I have a friend who was on a major wedding budget and used a photography student from our local college to shoot their wedding.

The photos came out absolutely amazing, and at half the price.

Be sure to ask for references and a portfolio so you know exactly what you are getting.

Make Your Own Favors

When my wife and got hitched over 15 years ago we made Jordan Almonds and tasty Italian cookies and handed them out as favors to our guests.

They were a huge hit!

Not only were they affordable but they added a really cool personal touch as the cookie recipe was a family favorite from my wife’s Italian side of the family.

Ask the Reader: I realize there have been books written on this subject and my tips are only the tip of the iceberg. Let me know what tip you used successfully to save money on your wedding day.

By Kyle James

Photo credit to Amy.