Four Ways to Keep Wedding Costs Down

Remember to Be Ready to Bargain, Think Creatively and Resist Pressure.

Set a Budget and Save

Get an idea of potential expenses on sites such as costofwedding.com and theknot.com.  The Knot even has a tool to rack budgeted vs. actual expenses and to alert you when you're about to exceed your budget.  Once you know roughly what your wedding will cost, open a dedicated bank account and add to it regularly, assuming you'll shoulder some of the costs.  Try to build in a cushion of10% for last-minute expenses, such as tips or travel for a relative.

Pick Your Priorities

The food?  The flowers?  The music?  The photos?  Choose what matters most to you, and look for ways to trim other expenses.  Must-haves for Megan and Anthony, who will marry in August: a first-rate photographer, videographer and DJ. "40% think flowers are a waste of money, so cut back on them."  Another way to save is to be flexible with the timing of your big day.  For example, the knot says you could pay about 20% less per person if you have your reception on a Sunday vs. a Saturday.

Trim the Guest List

This move is, "hands down" the No. 1 way to save.  Fewer people means less food and alcohol, fewer centerpieces and invitations, and a lower fee for the party space.  Brides says trimming the average 164-person guest list to 100 could save you thousands of catering alone.

Don't Overlook Details

Little expenses such as taxes and fees for everything from the marriage license to the cake cutting can really add up.  The single biggest thing couples don't do is read the fine print of the contract.
 You need to know what you're paying for.

Watch for Red Flag Warning Signs

• A business doesn't want to do a contract with you.
• Watch for sub-charges, they add tips, taxes and extra fees, then sub-charges.
• Normal gratuity can run 15% 20%, on food, beverage & bar ~~~20% being on the high end of service.  Usually around 16%-17%.  If they build in gratuity charge then watch for a sub-charge.... shouldn't have both. If so "negotiate".
• Hidden prices.
• Ask for a estimated invoice, so there's no hidden prices.