Did you ever get an allowance as a child? You know that “itching to spend money” feeling that came with it?  Well, now, like then, it’s still true to say – just because you have it, doesn’t mean you should spend it!  And looking for ways to save doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice beauty or elegance for less expensive options.

Here are a few ways to cut back the budget without cutting out the beauty:

1. Venues – did you fall in love with a place but think it might be too pricey?  See what their options are for less popular times of year.  You may find a discount if you opt for April instead of June.
2. Clip coupons – that’s right.  Haul out the scissors when you’re leafing through the bridal magazine you bought or the flyers you’ve picked up along the way. USE the coupons; don’t just stash them away like you do the ones from Sunday paper…
3. Frugal florals – reuse your arrangements!  Bridesmaid bouquets can double as centerpieces.  Larger arrangements you might have used for the ceremony can make an encore appearance at the reception.
4. Table magic – using larger tables will help fill a room but use less centerpieces.
5. Time is money – DJs, bartenders, caterers, etc. – might all have a set number of hours in your contract.  Going over that means extra fees.  Why do you think they LIKE you to party all night?  Stick to your timeframe and ask for a “warning” signal from them – say 30 minutes in advance.
6. Budgetworthy bar choices – limit open bar to cocktail hour and serve beer or wine at dinner.  Better yet, choose a “theme” drink if it fits your event.  Increase your selection of soft drinks and flavored waters.
7. Edible Entrees – heard the horror stories about the bland or rubbery chicken dishes at these events, eh?  No worries.  Today’s caterers are finding all sorts of new savory ways to serve the same old bird.  You may be pleasantly surprised.  Pair it with exotic salads and unusual sides.

So, you see, it’s not too hard to find places to save without sacrificing your goals.  Think outside the aisle, so to speak.  For the fun of it, you could always grab a piggy bank and stash away the difference on what you saved.  Now, there’s a nice way to start your nest egg.