Hey, Style Me Pretty readers. Jessica of The Budget Savvy Bride here. I’ve spent the last 8 years sharing ideas, tips, and tricks to help brides save money on their big day, but it’s not just the happy couples that are looking to cut costs. Whether you’re invited as a guest to half a dozen weddings this season or are performing bridesmaid duties at multiple events, you may be looking for some money-saving tips for yourself. Allow me to share some of my budget-savvy wisdom to help you get through wedding season without losing your mind (or all your money.)
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Whether the weddings you’re attending are near or far, there will likely be costs involved. If you’re within driving distance, consider carpooling with friends (or splitting an Uber if none of you feels like acting as the designated driver.) Gotta stay overnight? Check out last minute discounts from handy apps like HotelTonight or book a night in an AirBNB instead of a swanky hotel. Flying? Book earlier rather than later and search discount airlines like JetBlue and Spirit.
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When it comes to wedding fashion, you probably want to avoid making a faux pas by repeating the same outfit at multiple events. To save money on your wedding garb, try shopping your friends’ closets to mix things up. Or if you’re headed to a black tie wedding consider renting a designer dress for less with Rent the Runway. Choose simple jewelry and an amazing pair of shoes that can be worn with different dresses so you don’t have to buy new accessories for each event.
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One wedding expense that adds up fast is all the gifts for all the different events. Make sure to check for retailer coupons, discounts or sales before purchasing off the couple’s registry – I’m personally a huge fan of Ebates and love earning cash back when I shop online. When ordering wedding gifts online you can usually avoid shipping fees, and if you have your gift sent directly to the couple you won’t have to worry about the extra expense of gift wrap. Another great tip is to go in on a gift with a group of friends, getting the couple a higher dollar item that they really want while allowing each person to contribute what they’re able towards the gift.
Be sure to make a budget for wedding season based on your savings and the number of events you’ll be attending. If you’re feeling extra strapped and it comes down to it, you can always politely decline invitations in order to save your sanity (and wallet.) Happy celebrating and saving!
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