Wedding Day Checklist: Attending a Wedding on a Budget

Birchwoods Banquet FacilityGetting a wedding invitation in the mail can be exciting, especially when it's announcing the wedding of a close friend or family member. However, most of us live on a budget and attending a wedding is usually expensive. There are the gifts and the travel, which often includes airline tickets and lodging. Plus, there may be things like bridal showers and rehearsal dinners to attend.

Financial experts say it's a good idea to review your budget as soon as the wedding invitation arrives. Also, think ahead. If the wedding is six months away, it's likely going to be a lot easier to put aside a few bucks each week rather than try and come up with all the money at one time.

Think about how much it will cost to attend the wedding. Then it's time to decide on a comfortable spending level for things like gifts, travel and wedding attire.

Think Ahead

In terms of travel, remember what we said about thinking ahead. Trying to book plane tickets at the last minute can be expensive and frustrating. Do some shopping. Check travel websites to see who has the best deals. This is also a good time to check on any frequent flyer miles you may have accumulated. Check to see if any airlines are offering two-for-one wedding deals. You and another wedding guest may be able to travel on the same flight at a reduced cost.

Look for Deals

When looking for a hotel, search for similar deals. Some hotels will offer discounted room rates if many people attending the same wedding stay at the same hotel.

Spend Wisely

When choosing a gift from the wedding registry, be prudent. There is no sense trying to spend what you don't have. Try and pick a tasteful gift that makes economic sense for you.

It may seem like a little thing, but it's a good idea to have cash on you when you attend the wedding reception. It will help with things like tips and parking.