The New York Institute of Art and Design offers online wedding planner courses and because we do, we like to provide free tips for wedding planners. Enjoy!
If you’re hired by a couple with a relatively small budget, try to start by defining their priorities.
If they’re willing, challenge them to name three (and only three!) luxury amenities that they absolutely cannot live without on the big day. Once those have been determined, you can research the probable cost of accommodating them, then head back to the drawing board to figure out how to disperse your remaining budget in order to manage what’s left.
For many people, the three most highly prioritized wedding purchases will involve either the venue, the catering, the bride’s favorite dress or the band. If you find that this is the case with your couple, getting creative with DIY style can be a great opportunity for savings on the remaining decorative task- something the average couple spends another 1,800 on. Since many couples spend upwards of 1,000 solely on elaborate centerpiece displays, here are 6 great (and relatively cheap) options for handmade substitutes.
1. Upside Down Wine Glasses - This is an extremely easy project that can even be done with glassware the couple (or the couple’s family) already owns. Try experimenting with different sizes and designs, or by placing tealights on the overturned base and small florals beneath the goblet.
2. Glittered Wine Bottles - In the months leading up to the big day, ask the couple to hold onto their finished wine bottles. The crafting itself can be done in a few hours- check out Pottery Barn’s full tutorial here.
3. Sand Bottles - Yes, just like the ones you used to make when you were a kid! These fit tremendously within a vibrant summer theme, and can be made by the bride and groom as a fun pre-wedding craft. Grab some old glass bottles of various sizes, and fill them with your chosen colors and patterns to create a funky, youthful display.
4. Small Toy Bowl - This is another great option that can be made using objects the couple might already own. Other than Legos, get creative depending on the pair’s taste in toys- think scrabble pieces, bouncy balls, marbles…
5. Fish Bowls - Not only is this choice inexpensive; it’s also a great idea for couples who plan to include children at their event. When the wedding ends, invite young guests to take their centerpiece home with them!
6. Logs - This is a beautiful DIY option to fit within a more traditional, rustic theme. In this example, the couple has carved out small tea light holders, but if your pair is less crafty, simply get creative with classy arrangements and add-ons (springs of greenery, pine needles, etc.)
Want to learn more? The New York Institute of Art and Design offers online wedding planning courses that can teach you how to plan and execute the perfect wedding. Request your free course catalog today!
