Now, I am all for making weddings look like a million dollars. Everyone wants the best for their big day, but it doesn’t mean you have to break the budget. Today I am going to share a few of my favorite money saving techniques that will effectively save you money!

1. God Bless Groupon. I know most people imagine groupon as a source for weekend getaways and half price mani pedis, but did you ever think that this could be applied to your wedding? Some helpful printing companys like vistaprint or zazzle could easily cut prices for save the dates and invites. Other services such as photography and photo booth rentals can be found on groupon and the deals are amazing! Head on over to groupon and see where you can save!

2. Do the DIYs. Admit it, your pinterest board is filled to the brim of wedding crafts you want to get to. So  here’s a challenge, actually do it! Do not resort to buying the easy things that you could DIY on etsy. For instance, I found some table numbers on Etsy that were $95. This was only for number one through ten! I bought the supplies at Hobby Lobby and did it myself for less than three dollars a piece. Have confidence and give it a try!

3. Research! Don’t just settle with the first invite you find or florist you like. Shop around and see if there are any better deals out there! In the wedding industry, there are a lot of different options! For instance, you may like one invite design on Minted, but you could get the same style at Wedding Paper Divas for 20% off if you are a Costco member. Be smart and plan out what you want, need, and the best vendor to provide it for you!

In the wedding world, Fridays mean one thing…more weddings! If you are a wedding planner, your work schedule is surrounded by wedded bliss all weekend long. Now more than ever people are choosing to save the date for a Friday! Surely, it is not the traditional Saturday night wedding, but who said your wedding has to live up to all these rules? While I am not getting married on a Friday, I have known plenty of people who have gone this route and it’s a smart choice! It’s certainly cost effective and it gives your guests the whole weekend to recover from your once in a lifetime event. If you have chosen a Friday wedding date, there is one big situation you must consider…Your Wedding Party! I understand it is your wedding, but that does not give you the permission to be inconsiderate. Therefore, if you choose to have your wedding on a Friday, make sure your wedding party knows as soon as possible. This way they know that they have to be there by Thursday night for your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner because to be honest, a Thursday rehearsal isn’t always as convenient as a Friday for those who have work, families, etc.  Simply give them enough time to get it all figured out. Overall, Fridays are an outstanding option and gives your out of town guests a little time to explore your city before they have to head home. Just don’t forget your dear Wedding Party in the process! 😉

Here are just a few of my favorite items on Etsy that I just had to put on our registry! What I love about Etsy is the uniqueness of each product and their over the top personalization skills. This Marketplace is open for every one to sell what they are best at making and I am all for supporting artists and fellow crafters.

Item # One: Atlas Terrarium Planter Kit  // I am a sucker for terrariums. I don’t what to tell you other than I just love them! I know this isn’t the usual registry item, but I couldn’t pass up something with such a unique shape and fun look. These kits are sold by the ABJGlassworks Shop

Item # Two: Personalized Pillowcase Pair with Mr. & Mrs. // You have to admit…these are just too cute. All I know as soon as I get married I want everyone to call me by my new last name (It makes it all so official!) Therefore, why not have it everywhere I can see it? I think little unique gifts like this really bring your registry together. People love buying this kind of thing too. These pillow cases are sold by the Uppercases Shop

Item # Three: Wall Shelf with Hooks and Mason Jar Vase // I have seen so many DIY versions of this on Pinterest and such, but to be honest, I don’t neccessarily have the time to create something like this. Therefore, the nest best thing is just to buy it! I love this because it is really unique and a great eye catching piece that everyone will be talking about during dinner parties. Besides, I love any excuse to consistently keep flowers in my home. This shelf is sold by the KateandCass Shop.

Item # Four: Mr. and Mrs. Custom Cutting Board // Like I said, custom and personalized stuff like this is an automatic must have. Not only does it have this personal touch, but it is durable! I would love to have this in my kitchen when I become a newlywed. This cutting board is sold by The Cutting Board Shop

Thanks for stopping by and reading in on the Etsy goodness! Feel free to comment and contact!