California Wedding Wave

Gown: Lela Rose ‘Parlor’

When it comes down to the dress, you know you want to fulfill all of your dreams. But those dreams often carry a hefty price tag. Don’t turn your back on a great deal.  Say I DO to Shopping at Sample Sales. These gowns have been used in the salon, so there is a bit a wear on them, but more often than not they are in excellent condition. Salons will sell these beauties at deeply discounted rates. Even when you factor a cleaning expense into the mix,  you will still be saving a great deal of money to get an amazing gown!

Photography by: Marianne Lozano Photography

When choosing your date, you may also want to think whether the flowers fit the season. Consider saying I DO to Purchasing Locally Grown, In-Season Flowers. The cost of your flowers increases exponentially when you buy flowers out of season. California brides are fortunate to have many options due to California’s longer growing seasons and abundance of nurseries, but buying certain flowers at the wrong time of year can really raise the rates.

Photography by: Barnet Photography

When seeking entertainment for your ceremony and reception, review all of your options. Say I DO to Checking Out the Local Music Scene. Locally grown produce is all the rage in catering, why not make “locally grown” musicians the next big thing at your celebration. There are so many talented musicians who could provide entertainment for your event. Not just reception music, but small ensemble musicians who play classical ceremony music. The best part is going to all the local venues to hear great live music!

Photography by: Caroline Tran Photographer

We all know that he only has eyes for you, but keep that in mind when considering your decór. Say I DO to Being the Star of the Show. Remember that your guests are here to see you and your special person exchange vows. Try to avoid using too many extravagant arrangements that will take away from the true focus of the event. After the flowers have wilted away, it is your love that will remain!

Photography by: Barnet Photography

Believe it or not, how your food is served at the reception can make a difference in its cost. Say I DO to Serving it up Family Style. Individually plated meals tend to be more costly because of the amount of preparation that goes into each one. Less plating is required for each of the tables at the reception when going family style. Serving your meal this way also creates an intimacy in your ambiance. Your guests will really feel at home!

Photography by: Studio EMP

A poll we conducted on entertainment made it clear that most of our readers want to leave the music to the professionals. We can all agree that the best entertainment value does come from putting your trust in someone who is highly skilled in their profession. However, consider saying I DO to Your iPod. Who knows your musical tastes better than your iPod? Not every aspect of your wedding should be left in the care of your mp3 player, but you can save a few dollars by choosing your own music for the ceremony and cocktail hour. The money you save in those areas can be put toward getting your dream band or DJ.

Photography by: 2 Rings & A Dress Photographers

The idea that seems most simple on paper, but may be one of the most challenging to accomplish is to say I Don’t Need to Invite Everyone. Yesterday’s tip focused on the need to create a list of wedding day essentials, the same concept applies today. Although today’s task may be a little more difficult because you are dealing with the emotions of people. Keep in mind that people who really care about you will understand the decisions you make whether or not they “make the cut.” Some people find it is easier to eliminate casual acquaintances, co-workers and children. However, the choice is ultimately yours.

Photography by: The Studios of Joseph Guidi

An open bar can open Pandora’s Box to a huge expense, therefore, say I Do to Customizing a Cocktail for your Event. It is commonplace to serve beer and wine but sometimes guests want a little variety. Rather than opening the whole bar, create a beverage that reflects you and your spouse. By creating your own wedding cocktail, you will be limiting the mixers and alcohol needed for your event. It is also a memorable way to recall some of the fun moments of your wedding day. Earlier this week one of our polls asked our readers to decide their favorite signature cocktail concoction. See what others had to say and let us know your thoughts as well.

Photography by: Jennifer Dery Photography
Venue: The US Grant, San Diego

Weddings are typically conducted on Saturdays to ensure guests will be able to attend. However, say I Don’t to Limiting Your Date to Saturday. Getting a date set in stone for your ideal venue can be quite competitive. Some couples have booked well over a year in advance for the wedding of their dreams. Open your options by considering having a wedding on another date. Venues often offer discounts for weddings scheduled on “off” days of the week.

Photography by: Marianne Lozano

What could be more meaningful than borrowing your mother’s pearls? Not much, hence, say I DO to Borrowing for your Wedding. This is one of the easiest ways to save a few dollars. Often there is a sentimental attachment to the item that is being utilized which not only saves a little coinage but brings a bond between you and the person from which you borrowed the item. This adage is not limited to the bride alone, the groom should be open to the possibility of wearing grandpa’s cuff links or tie clip, too.