cut corners

[EarlyBird]

know we had something like this a couple months back but doesnt hurt for the new people that come in.


-where did you cut corners or save money by either DIY or using alternatives to "the norm" I know some people have used bridesmaid dresses in white as a bridal gown, some have made their bridesmaids jewelry. etc etc

We dont really get to see the things like that- usually see pictures of the invites and programs but have any of you dont or plan on doing something different as a diy or to cut corners on the budget?

[TangoWedding]

My corner cutting:

- Shopped for bridal gowns in department and clothing stores first. I found amazing ones at Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Macy's. I picked one from Nordstrom (it was priced at $300) and then found it brand new on eBay for $89. STEAL! And it's PERFECT!

- Will buy bridesmaids outfits from a normal store (JC Penney's, etc)....not from a bridal shop. Same with FH's and groomsmen's suits.

- Hired a friend of a friend to do all the catering. For just being a good reference for her (she wants to start a catering biz eventually), she said she'd do it for just the price of food. I'll tip her WELL...but still.

- FH found the ring he wanted - it was marked around $350. We did tons of comparison shopping and found the same one online for $78. Again, it is perfect.

- Found all candle holders on sale at Garden Ridge for 10 cents each. Am waiting for candles to go on clearance now. :grinhappy:

- Will be making my own bouquet, BM bouquets, and bouts (haven't even STARTED that one yet...so no pics).

- Did DIY invitations. Will also do DIY save-the-dates and programs.

- Will not have a pricey wedding cake. We're DIY making a cupcake stand instead (below). Super Target's bakery will make the cupcakes but we will do the decorating. The top layer of the stand will be a cheesecake (made by ME!) that we can cut and feed to each other.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v257/zennymountain/cupcake1.jpg

- All music will be from an iPod. No DJ or band to hire and tip.