Some budget tips from my D.I.Y. Chic Bride

"BUDGET WEDDING WISDOM!!"! by Jen Koshorek Rader

"Track your expenses!!! Even little purchases add up. If you're keeping track, you're less likely to over-spend!

Keep it simple! Decide what is most important to you and spend the bulk of your money on those things! (For us, it was FOOD, PHOTOGRAPHER and MUSIC).

Choose a venue that has some amenities (ours included tables). Also, choose a venue that lets you have all-day access and does not charge for additional hours if you have a longer reception.

Go with vendors you can trust! Up-front pricing and service will SAVE you cash! No surprises!!! Also, pick vendors that are willing to work with your budget and be willing to say "NO!". If you didn't want it when you walked in, you don't need it!

Know when to spend money! Time and sanity are important, too! Printing is relatively inexpensive and home printing jobs can be a headache. Know when to "fold 'em". If you're doing complicated or precise folds (like our programs) leave it to the professionals.

If you pay attention to the things that matter, people won't notice the things that don't! No one mentioned the fact that we got the most basic chairs because they hadn't noticed! They were on the dance floor with us!

Pay attention to the details that show your love and care of your guests. Yes, the day is about you, but that little extra effort shows and if your guests are happy, your day is even better! It doesn't cost a lot to show people that you care.

We stayed true to who we were and what we wanted out of the day. We were happy and because of that, no matter what little things may have gone wrong, the day was perfect and our guest noticed. If you're having a good time, your guest will, too!!!

Finally, our wedding motto "Good enough"! Its one day...it should be fantastic and all you've ever dreamed of, but in the end, its about getting married to the person you love. Make all of the other decisions once...changing your mind takes time and in the end will cost money and sanity!"