Always a Budget

I can't stand having to stick to a budget, but since it all comes down to the most extravegant wedding I can put together for under 5 grand, I must turn to DIY! First of all, the cake...rediculous in price - impossible to make yourself (successufully). Solution: Cupcakes! I know this is the oldest trick in the book, but it can really save a ton of money and I always wanted to have the 'cut the cake' picture and monogrammed cake toppers, so we are going to have a giant cupcake (really a regular sized round cake) with our cake toppers on top of the tiers filled with cupcakes - this way we can even keep it for our 1 yr anniversary!

Next expense, not so much needed, FLOWERS!! I'd say this is more rediculous than cake... you have them for a total of 1 week (if your lucky) and they die, def a waste of centerpiecage. Solution: buy wholesale for the bouqet and boutineers, and DIY! for the girl asking about a place to find out how to make your own bouqet - YOU TUBE - literally, everything you need to know how to do for a wedding and more.

Another biggie - venue, omg I am so lucky I found one for under $500 (my church gym = ceremony and reception same place = convenience!) considering that's cheaper than a free place (my parents house) with table and chair rental! CRAZY waste of money, honestly - use the extra 2 - 3 thousand saved on decor as this should be the most noticable attribute to your wedding, in my opinion!

If anyone knows of any way to save money on other unavoidable costs - dj, catering, dance lessons etc. PLEASE, let me know! P.S. I love the idea of custom postage, can't wait to try it out!