how are you ladies?

Cutting costs?
I'm really having a hard time thinking that this is way to much to spend...

it is a lot of money to spend, but take the time to sit down and plan out a budget and you guys should be fine. shop around for vendors and don't be afraid to ask them what they can do for you.
if in the end, you and your Fh both still think that this is too much to spend on a wedding, then maybe you can come up with an alternate plan, like have a much smaller wedding

you definitely don't have to feel bad about not doing the extras that a lot of girls do on here like slipper baskets, cry packs, bathroom baskets, personalized napkins, channa plaque, stuff like that. We are also saving by not really upgrading our menu (although they threw in a lot for free!) and just doing a basic DJ package instead of a one with lots of lights and handouts and stuff.

I think you really need to sit down and prioritize what is most important to you and FH and then just start cutting things from the bottom of the list!

The best way to cut what your spending is to reduce your guestlist. We started at 120, we are down to 70ish.. If you call them your casual friend, then that's what they are ..casual.

People will understand if they are not close to you and don't get invited... if they don't, well, you're still getting married right? or have an after-party...

Just not giving to every desire.

FH wanted a phantom, we are getting a regular rolls royce. We actually weren't going to get anything at all but my mom volunteered to pay for it:)

I really want a percussionist but we're skipping it.

No uplighting:( Unless somehow we find it in the budget. That will be what we do if we can.

I dont think we are doing any menu upgrades.

I wanted a cigar roller, but we are just going to have a cigar bar.

It's mostly the extras we are skipping.

vistaprint std's- great price and my magnets were perfect!

no videographer

probably doing invitations online, simple and pretty

im sure there will be more ways to save for us as we go along!

vistaprint for std's & invites
no limos (since iam getting ready @ my uncles up the block from RH .. actually thinking of getting cute shots of me & BP walking there, its THAT close)
basic package from videographer
my brother & sister are photographers in VA so my gift from them is my pics/albums
bff's mom is a seamstress, so not paying for alterations on dress
and TONS of DIY projects