Planning a budget-friendly wedding might seem like a challenge. Often times when planning a wedding with a budget, the first thing the soon-to-be bride and groom do in order to keep costs down is limit the use of professional services during the ceremony and reception. While limiting the number of people you have to hire can help you save money, there are some areas that truly benefit from adding a professional’s touch to the task.
Before you cut all of the professional services from your budget-friendly wedding, consider keeping these services to ensure you get the wedding of your dreams:
A Wedding Photographer
Many people are under the belief that anyone can capture a quality photo. While smartphone cameras and apps have allowed more people to explore their interest in photography, that doesn’t mean that just anyone can achieve a high-quality result. Photography is an artform after all and it requires a certain level of expertise in order to be done well. And since you only intend to get married once, failing to get the professional photographs you imagined means you missed your opportunity completely if you don’t hire the right person to take your photos for you.
Since capturing the memories of your big day are often critical, hiring a wedding photographer needs to be a priority. Not only are they familiar with all of the traditional poses most couples want, but they also understand how to ensure everyone looks their best in every shot. Their familiarity with wedding services also helps them anticipate when important moments are coming up, ensuring they are prepared to get that shot when those key wedding day moments take place.
A Wedding Cake Specialist
When people picture the cake at their wedding, a sheet cake from the local grocery store normally doesn’t quite come to mind. Many bakeries of this nature have limited experience creating the cakes more commonly seen at weddings. Additionally, many home bakers don’t have the opportunity to create multi-tiered creations often, so they may not be familiar with the intricacies of creating a proper supporting structure for such a large and decadent piece.
Credit: J. LEAL
So, if you have your eyes set on a more traditional looking dessert, then it is best to choose a bakery that creates delicacies for weddings on a regular basis. More than likely, they will work with you to identify less expensive wedding cake options that will suit your budget.
A Band or DJ
If your reception involves music playing throughout the night, then you might want to make sure this is handled by someone specifically hired to do the job. Many brides and grooms think managing the music/playlist for the entire evening is an easy thing to do, especially since many people can carry around thousands of songs in their pockets through their phones and music devices. But, unless you want to create a playlist for the entire reception, it can be worth the investment to choose a professional to manage and perform that task for you.
Not only can they ensure certain songs are played at the right time, but they can also take requests from guests while you’re enjoying your special night. If there are certain songs you don’t want to hear on your big day, you can provide them with a list of songs that are off limits too. That way, you don’t have to worry about a friend or family member taking over your smartphone to find the “Chicken Dance” if you really prefer it not be played. And sometimes, having that professional buffer can alleviate a lot of stress.
A Caterer (For Large Receptions)
Many people underestimate what it takes to produce food for large groups of people, especially if you are planning on having a full meal prepared and served. While smaller receptions might be manageable for those accustomed to cooking for large families, very few non-professionals have the expertise required to time and create a multicourse meal for hundreds of people.
If you have concerns about the food budget, but would still like options available to a large group, consider timing your ceremony to make only having hors d’oeuvres appropriate. Otherwise, choose food options that are less expensive for full meals. For example, chicken tends to be less expensive than most other meats, so you might be able to experience significant savings by choosing it over options like beef or fish as your entree of choice.
Featured photo credit: J. LEAL via jleal.eu
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