http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/sex/4-ways-to-throw-a-champagne-wedding-on-a-sparkling-cider-budget-170614/4 ways to throw a champagne wedding on a sparkling-cider budget
Go for the
memory-making touches.
“Think about the traditions and quirks that make you
unique as a couple,” says Jung Lee, owner of the high-profile event planning and decor firm Fête and author of Fête: The Wedding Experience. “Hire a great band you saw on
a date, or serve the biscuits from your favorite restaurant. These small, and often inexpensive,
personal touches make the day extra memorable.”
Skip the major
flowers.
“They can be so expensive,” says Lee, who had one client who ordered $600,000 in table decorations. For something unexpected and chic, “fill clear cylinders with water and float
candles in them. Or, like I did at one fall wedding, line the table with soy candles and baby pears.”
Create
mood lighting.
“Bright lighting screams convention center or catering hall,” says Lee. If the location doesn't have dimmers, ask if you can use amber or soft pink bulbs. “Or just turn off every other light to
make things look richer.”
Know
where you can skimp.
One thing that nobody will miss? Favors. “
Brides obsess over them, but I've never heard a guest say, ‘That was the best favor I've ever gotten!’” points out Lee. You can cut out the extra
desserts, too. “
Cake is more than enough.”
—TIFFANY BLACKSTONE