Recession-Proofing Your Wedding Budget -Part 2

Brides & grooms often spend $ on "Optional Wedding Service Categories". Which categories are optional? Which are not? In our opinion, the following categories of wedding vendors/services are NOT optional, and even the most basic wedding has them:

• Formalwear (of some sort)
• Officiant
• Photography (to some degree)
• Rings
• Floral (to some degree)
• Cake or desserts
• Invitations
• Venue (can be a free one)

Here are the categories that we feel are completely optional, or could be used at their most basic level for serious money savings:

• Limos & Transportation
• Health (gyms, personal trainers, yoga, dance lessons, etc)
• Wedding planners/coordinators
• Printed materials
• Catering
• Videography
• Music services

Let's take catering as an example. Do you really need a full catered meal? Could you DIY your own catering and have snacks and hors d'oeuvres instead to go with your cake? The price difference between those 2 food options is staggering. Or videography for example too - Have a friend videotape your ceremony and sections of your reception! The $$ savings there too would be immense. Even so, maybe some of these items are not optional according to you! Take into consideration all the options you have in each category. Nearly every category has a DIY option, a basic option and a full service option. Ultimately, it's your wedding so decide the budget priorities for yourselves.

For more wedding planning and DIY information, go to http://www.nwweddingplace.com/ today!