ACCC provides consumers with eight helpful tips on how to plan a wedding without going over budget
Boston, MA – August 26, 2019
The costs of a wedding can add up very quickly. Some consumers may consider going down to city hall to save, but for those that want a lavish wedding, all hope is not lost. To assist, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) offers eight tips on planning a budget-friendly wedding.
“A wedding may feel like the biggest day of your life, which is why most consumers feel the pressure to plan a big, elaborate celebration,” said Steve Trumble, President, and CEO of American Consumer Credit Counseling. “It is important that consumers know it is possible to have an amazing wedding day without breaking the bank on one special day.”
According to the most recent survey by The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in 2018 was $33,931. The average number of guests was 136, with the average catering cost per guest being $70. When it comes to the wedding dress, brides spend on average $1,631, an eight percent increase from $1,509 in 2017.
ACCC gives eight tips on how to plan a budget-friendly wedding.
- Budget – Consumers need to sit down with their future spouses and parents and decide on a budget, so everyone is on the same page. Once a budget is decided on, break it down into separate categories and decide what percentage will be spent on the ceremony, reception, dress and suit, wedding planner, photographer/videographer and miscellaneous.
- Guest list – Each guest is an added expense so try to limit the list. A smaller and more intimate wedding is suggested. Make the original guest list and then go back and cut it by at least 20 percent.
- Ditch the venue – Venues can take up a large portion, if not over 50 percent, of the budget. Consumers should consider hosting the ceremony and reception at home or outside, but be sure to have a back-up plan in case it rains.
- DIY – Whenever possible consumers should consider taking on ‘Do-It-Yourself’ projects to save money on their wedding. Consumers can make their wedding invitations, create centerpieces and decorations, or even plan the menu and make the food if it’s a small enough wedding.
- Do the homework – Consumers should take the time to look at several different vendors and make sure they are getting their money’s worth. It is also useful to ask around for recommendations.
- Opt-out of open bar – An open bar can add up very quickly. Consumers should consider doing a cash bar or offering only beer and wine. Some venues may even allow consumers to supply their own alcohol.
- Bride and bridesmaids – When shopping for the perfect wedding and bridesmaids dresses, check out sales and discount stores. To really save money, consider picking a color and allowing the bridesmaids to either find their dress or wear something they already own.
- Groom and groomsmen – If the attire is black tie, then it is usually cheaper to rent tuxes as a group for a more affordable rate, as most people don’t typically own tuxes. If tuxes aren’t necessary, then consider picking a color and wearing a suit that everyone already owns.
ACCC is a 501(c)3 organization that provides free credit counseling, bankruptcy counseling, and housing counseling to consumers nationwide in need of financial literacy education and money management. For more information, contact ACCC:
- For credit counseling and student loan counseling, call 800-769-3571
- For bankruptcy counseling, call 866-826-6924
- For housing counseling, call 866-826-7180
- Or visit us online at http://www.ConsumerCredit.com
About American Consumer Credit Counseling
American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) is a nonprofit credit counseling 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering consumers to achieve financial management through credit counseling, debt management, bankruptcy counseling, housing counseling, student loan counseling and financial education concerning debt solutions. To help consumers reach their goal of debt relief, ACCC provides a range of free consumer personal finance resources on a variety of topics including budgeting, credit and debt management, student loan assistance, youth and money, homeownership, identity theft, senior living, and retirement. Consumers can use ACCC’s worksheets, videos, calculators, and blog articles to make the best possible decisions regarding their financial future. ACCC holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and is a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®). For more information or to access free financial education resources, log on to ConsumerCredit.com or visit https://www.consumercredit.com/debt-resources-tools/
