Taco Bell Wedding, Bliss on a Budget

It seems that every topic of conversation these days, leads to one particular subject; that's right the all too important economic downturn. People from all walks of life are trying to find ways to save on anything and everything, including weddings and special events. If there's one thing that here to stay, it's getting married and having an amazing celebration.


For Normal, Illinois couple Paul and Caragh Brooks that meant having their wedding at the local Taco Bell they frequented. The couple, who met on an Internet dating site were married by friend, Ryan Greene of Normal who was ordained online prior to administering the vows.

But those who don't enjoy tacos or just don't have a Taco Bell nearby there are ways for you to save too! If your planning the wedding of your dreams but your budget is so tight you can barely breathe, here's a few great tips on how to have your cake and eat it too!

Calendar Check

First off, be a little more flexible with your wedding date. Although you might have a specific date in mind, changing the date to a non-traditional Friday or Sunday would give you more pricing options with venues. Also, since the height of the wedding season starts in May and ends in September, selecting a date during the off-peak months between October-April could allow you to save a ton. When vendors and venues experience a slow down, you reap the benefit!

Who's nearest and dearest?

Another great way to save on cost is to limit the number of guests attending your wedding. Of course there are obligations, however if you have third cousins, friends you haven't seen or spoken to in five years or even co-workers that you barely know, cross them off this list now! Would you rather have a huge, expensive wedding with lot's of people you don't know or a more affordable, intimate wedding with those who are nearest and dearest to you? Do the math and you'll find that the second option might save you more than you think.

Get some help already

Hire a planner or consultant. While some think that planning an event in its entirety without hiring a planner can cut cost, the realization is that you might actually save money and time by hiring a planner. Event planners are like gate-keepers. They have resources and established relationships with vendors and venues. So whether your budget is large or small and whether you'll be serving hors'deourve or a sit-down filet mignion meal, event planners can often negotiate the costs and provide you with more options to choose from.

Trim the fat

Everyone knows that food and beverages options are essential components to any successful event. It can also be the most expensive too! One way to trim the fat literally and figuratively is to serve passed hors'deourves and an open bar package as opposed to having a pricier sit-down meal with higher priced wine and Champagne. Tasting ahead will give you the option of selecting the best quality hors' deourves. You're guests will appreciate and enjoy them and you won't be stuck with a huge bill. Additionally, ask you're caterer about the option of creating food Stations with yummy gourmet treats for guests.

Early Bird gets the worm

Saving on food at your wedding doesn't mean starving. Having your wedding earlier in the day means that you can take advantage of brunch and lunch menus which are considerable more affordable than a dinner menu.

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Be fabulous without being broke!