Money saving tips, anyone?

vlove720

I just got engaged in August and we want to get married in Miami (we live in Brickell) in 2013 or 2014.  However, I am on a VERY tight budget.  I just graduated law school and am in a HUGE amount of debt, my father has not worked for over 3 years and my mother passed away last year.  My fiance's family offered to help pay for some of the wedding, but we are trying to keep the wedding under $10K (which may be impossible).  

I am hoping that because we need to get married on a Sunday (my fiance's grandfather is orthodox) we can save some money that way.  Besides booking on a Sunday, does anyone have any good tips?? I want to get married on a rooftop in SoBe in a botique hotel or somewhere with views of Miami or the bay/ocean.  My guest list is 75-95, trying to make it smaller.

ANY ADVICE WILL HELP!

Thanks!

poultryprincess

Ill be pretty blunt, and its seomthing you wont want to hear - the phrases 'I'm on a tight budget' and 'I want to get married on a rooftop in a boutique hotel' really dont work with each other. The average wedding in south Florida costs $34K. Thats not to say that you CANT have a great wedding for 10K, but it really falls under the category of 'budget', in which case you have to be creative with things like the venue. 

The first thing you should consider is trimming your guest list. You can save thousands by just cutting a handful of people. 

I know a husband/wife team that plans budget weddings (they did my sister's weddding last year and they were fantastic) and they can probably help you find deals so you can stay in your budget. They are Vince and Cindy, their number is 954-628-5346. tell them Sarah recommended them.

Good luck!

LaMaFa

If you can be at all flexible on location, further up the coast there are some places in Broward and Palm Beach that might be a little closer to your budget. Also, get ready to DIY your heart out- be careful as it can be just as expensive as buying new, so you have to look for sales, discounts and coupons before you buy.
Ditto to PP, you will have to shrink your guest list if you have any hope of making a rooftop wedding in SoBe happen. If that isn't an option or you can't get it below 50 (the only way I see this dream working), then you'll need to either reconsider your dream or wait longer to save up more. It's tough, but sometimes it has to happen.
You will be able to get some discounts for getting married on a Sunday, just keep in mind that unless you do it during a holiday weekend (Labor Day, Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, etc) people may not come for an evening event with having work the next day. You can use this to your advantage though, and have it earlier in the day, so you can skip a lunch or dinner and just have heavy apps, which can be cheaper if done right. Or you can do it as an evening event and just expect a smaller guest list and/or for people to leave a bit earlier than they normally would. Please let us know if you need any more help. there are a few of us on here that are budget brides and we'll be happy to offer advice when and where we can. HTH!

Mademoiselle D

There is a beautiful rooftop location in Boca called the Spanish River Library. It's an affordable venue and I believe you can bring in your own vendors. The only rooftop venues in Miami which I know of are pretty expensive in just the rental alone. If you really want a rooftop wedding then take into consideration who you can remove from your guest list and keep at around 50 or below. If you can do that then check out the Mayfair Hotel and ask for their rooftop. It's an intimate venue so it may make it easier to trim your list.

Since you mentioned you will be picking a Sunday to get married, it's a good start on saving money with venues and even other vendors. I would suggest looking at venues and ask about what months are their low wedding season. You can save some money in doing this. Keep in mind, your biggest expenses will be your reception and catering so if you choose an all inclusive location then definitely trim your guest list.

Other tips on how to save money would be:
- DIY as much as you can (invites, favors, and certaind decor items)
- If your wedding dress is part of your budget then consider purchasing a pre-loved wedding dress from another bride. You will get it for much less than the original price tag and it's almost all look brand spanking new (it's only worn for a few hours).
- Instead of usng tons of flowers use candles for your decor and if you want flowers keep them the arrangements simple and use seasonal flowers.

One of the knotties on here, Dorkygirl, is having her wedding at a boutique hotel in South Beach called the Angeler's Hotel inside their restaurant. The hotel looks great based on it's website so it's another option to consider.

If you cannot have a rooftop wedding then don't let it discourage you. You can still have a beautiful wedding within your budget by cutting a few corners here and there. If you have any questions or need any advice then don't hesistate to ask us or feel free to PM me

vlove720

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_florida-south-florida_money-saving-tips-anyone?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:67Discussion:9a4a0cdb-22b4-40c1-8fa7-e5fa6ec4afdaPost:26a8afd3-1c0f-4c79-83a7-1011d6154c8b">Re: Money saving tips, anyone?</a>:
[QUOTE]Ill be pretty blunt, and its seomthing you wont want to hear - the phrases 'I'm on a tight budget' and 'I want to get married on a rooftop in a boutique hotel' really dont work with each other. The average wedding in south Florida costs $34K. Thats not to say that you CANT have a great wedding for 10K, but it really falls under the category of 'budget', in which case you have to be creative with things like the venue.  The first thing you should consider is trimming your guest list. You can save thousands by just cutting a handful of people.  I know a husband/wife team that plans budget weddings (they did my sister's weddding last year and they were fantastic) and they can probably help you find deals so you can stay in your budget. They are Vince and Cindy, their number is 954-628-5346. tell them Sarah recommended them. Good luck!
Posted by poultryprincess[/QUOTE]<div>
</div><div>Thank you so much for the recommendation! I will definitely call them!!!  I have been researching and some of the venues I can get for under $10K if I cut people, which is the hardest part becasue I dont want to hurt anyone's feelings!  I am flexible with my budget and will do a lot of diy decorations, but I don't want to spend too much!

</div>

vlove720

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_florida-south-florida_money-saving-tips-anyone?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:67Discussion:9a4a0cdb-22b4-40c1-8fa7-e5fa6ec4afdaPost:bdd10a86-999e-4bac-827b-8f6dfa81e318">Re: Money saving tips, anyone?</a>:
[QUOTE]There is a beautiful rooftop location in Boca called the Spanish River Library. It's an affordable venue and I believe you can bring in your own vendors. The only rooftop venues in Miami which I know of are pretty expensive in just the rental alone. If you really want a rooftop wedding then take into consideration who you can remove from your guest list and keep at around 50 or below. If you can do that then check out the Mayfair Hotel and ask for their rooftop. It's an intimate venue so it may make it easier to trim your list. Since you mentioned you will be picking a Sunday to get married, it's a good start on saving money with venues and even other vendors. I would suggest looking at venues and ask about what months are their low wedding season. You can save some money in doing this. Keep in mind, your biggest expenses will be your reception and catering so if you choose an all inclusive location then definitely trim your guest list. Other tips on how to save money would be: - DIY as much as you can (invites, favors, and certaind decor items) - If your wedding dress is part of your budget then consider purchasing a pre-loved wedding dress from another bride. You will get it for much less than the original price tag and it's almost all look brand spanking new (it's only worn for a few hours). - Instead of usng tons of flowers use candles for your decor and if you want flowers keep them the arrangements simple and use seasonal flowers. One of the knotties on here, Dorkygirl, is having her wedding at a boutique hotel in South Beach called the Angeler's Hotel inside their restaurant. The hotel looks great based on it's website so it's another option to consider. If you cannot have a rooftop wedding then don't let it discourage you. You can still have a beautiful wedding within your budget by cutting a few corners here and there. If you have any questions or need any advice then don't hesistate to ask us or feel free to PM me :)
Posted by Mademoiselle D[/QUOTE]<div>
</div><div>Thanks!  I'm actually from Boca and didn't even think of this! I'm gunna check out the SoBe location too! 

</div>

poultryprincess

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_florida-south-florida_money-saving-tips-anyone?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:67Discussion:9a4a0cdb-22b4-40c1-8fa7-e5fa6ec4afdaPost:d31d62fa-7411-46e5-aff9-744987162918">Re: Money saving tips, anyone?</a>:
[QUOTE]In Response to Re: Money saving tips, anyone? : Thank you so much for the recommendation! I will definitely call them!!!  I have been researching and some of the venues I can get for under $10K if I cut people, which is the hardest part becasue I dont want to hurt anyone's feelings!  I am flexible with my budget and will do a lot of diy decorations, but I don't want to spend too much!
Posted by vlove720[/QUOTE]

<div>You have to remember that your guest list is the biggest piece of the pie, budget wise. You wont hurt peoples feelings, especially if they barely know you. And parents get over it pretty quickly when you tell them you cant afford to invite all of their friends. My wedding was fantastic, but we couldnt afford a band and a second photographer and the type of flowers we wanted because I felt compelled to invite all of my grandparents' friends - when the wedding was over I reaalized how much a mistake I had made. Trust me - they'll understand.</div>

DorkyGirl17

It's totally do-able.  Like the ladies said, it's a matter of your guest list and trying to incorporate DIY stuff where you can.  And like Mademoiselle said, we're having our reception @ Anglers and we got a really great price -- about $55 per person before some extras.  Our guest list is pretty small.  We decided against flowers to save money (except my bouquet and my BM's bouquets) and I did DIY stuff.  My DOC got me some deals too (for her fee, for hair/make-up -- it's her company, and also for the beach permit b/c she's friends with the person in charge of Miami beach permits.  If you need any help, send me a PM :-)

jackeline.1584

NO WORRIES!!! YOu sound just like me wen I first got engaged!!  Same exact scenario: We wanted a view of the water and city, our guest list is 75 ppl, and we have a veeerrrrry tight budget (it began at 7k but it will finalize at 9k) ... I too was distraught at first during my search for the perfect place bc everything on the beach and in downtown was ridiculously priced, ($100 and up)   until I found the spot...  It's the Doubletree Hotel on BIscayne bay in downtown... I'm not going to lie, at first when we saw it I made a mental note telling myself (yup not going to be able to afford this)  The views are absolutely breathtaking, you have the bay with the marina and the city skyline to look at... They have a good sized terrace (like a rooftop just more like a balcony bc it' s a few levels up not on the roof itself pic below)
and there is where the ceremony is held. 



The terrace balcony is pretty big so they also set up the cocktail tables on the opposite side... The reception is indoors but has floor to ceiling glass windows that overlook the water and cityline from the inside as well!!  It's amazing and best of alll???? The price is $75 per person (on fridays and Sundays)  so you will be able to do the budget you want with the guest list you need... bc in our case the major part of the guests were family and family is family-sometimes cutting them out is NEVER an option.  In fact, you could cut your cost even lower if you opt for the lunch menu which begins at $55pp. They try to get you with the minimum spending bc they told us their minimum for their package was 100 guests. but they were able to lower the minimum to 80 guests for us, so I know they can accomodate u as well.  So if this is something you are interested in contact Adriana Raider (the wedding coordinator ) and she will help you with everything you need, her email is:  Adriana.Rader@hilton.com  Another bonus you will find- The hotel received amazing reviews on the knot, (5 out of 5 stars for the seven reviews up) so you know they will make it spectacular.  My wedding is in December and so far everything has been perfectly planned.  Below is what the price includes:
-Ceremony price $550 includes chairs but no covers ( chair covers are at $3.25 per chair, so rather than doing covers-which i hate anyways- we r renting the white garden chairs at $2.50 per chair..
-Reception includes five hours open bar house brand liquors-their house brands are pretty good in comparison to other places offering house brands.  
-hor d' overs up to five
-plated five course meal including one glass of wine per person
-wedding cake from the best wedding cake vendors (Edda cake design, Ana Paz cakes, three more)
-linens-they offer every color linen at no extra charge, they charge only for organza overlays
-free suite for the night for the bride and groom 
I think that pretty much covers it.  Another suggestion to save money is try and accomodate your centerpieces where you will use the less amount of flowers, Submerged flowers are very in now and r extremely reasonable.  Below is a pic.  Hope this helps and good luck!!!

vlove720

<div>omg u are awesome!!! thank you so much! I will be calling this week :)</div><div>
</div>In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_florida-south-florida_money-saving-tips-anyone?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:67Discussion:9a4a0cdb-22b4-40c1-8fa7-e5fa6ec4afdaPost:aeb8fcca-e43d-49df-b746-801bb881a92a">Re: Money saving tips, anyone?</a>:
[QUOTE]NO WORRIES!!! YOu sound just like me wen I first got engaged!!  Same exact scenario: We wanted a view of the water and city, our guest list is 75 ppl, and we have a veeerrrrry tight budget (it began at 7k but it will finalize at 9k) ... I too was distraught at first during my search for the perfect place bc everything on the beach and in downtown was ridiculously priced, ($100 and up)   until I found the spot...  It's the Doubletree Hotel on BIscayne bay in downtown... I'm not going to lie, at first when we saw it I made a mental note telling myself (yup not going to be able to afford this)  The views are absolutely breathtaking, you have the bay with the marina and the city skyline to look at... They have a good sized terrace (like a rooftop just more like a balcony bc it' s a few levels up not on the roof itself pic below) and there is where the ceremony is held.  The terrace balcony is pretty big so they also set up the cocktail tables on the opposite side... The reception is indoors but has floor to ceiling glass windows that overlook the water and cityline from the inside as well!!  It's amazing and best of alll???? The price is $75 per person (on fridays and Sundays)  so you will be able to do the budget you want with the guest list you need... bc in our case the major part of the guests were family and family is family-sometimes cutting them out is NEVER an option.  In fact, you could cut your cost even lower if you opt for the lunch menu which begins at $55pp. They try to get you with the minimum spending bc they told us their minimum for their package was 100 guests. but they were able to lower the minimum to 80 guests for us, so I know they can accomodate u as well.  So if this is something you are interested in contact Adriana Raider (the wedding coordinator ) and she will help you with everything you need, her email is:  Adriana.Rader@hilton.com   Another bonus you will find- The hotel received amazing reviews on the knot, (5 out of 5 stars for the seven reviews up) so you know they will make it spectacular.  My wedding is in December and so far everything has been perfectly planned.  Below is what the price includes: -Ceremony price $550 includes chairs but no covers ( chair covers are at $3.25 per chair, so rather than doing covers-which i hate anyways- we r renting the white garden chairs at $2.50 per chair.. -Reception includes five hours open bar house brand liquors-their house brands are pretty good in comparison to other places offering house brands.   -hor d' overs up to five -plated five course meal including one glass of wine per person -wedding cake from the best wedding cake vendors (Edda cake design, Ana Paz cakes, three more) -linens-they offer every color linen at no extra charge, they charge only for organza overlays -free suite for the night for the bride and groom  I think that pretty much covers it.  Another suggestion to save money is try and accomodate your centerpieces where you will use the less amount of flowers, Submerged flowers are very in now and r extremely reasonable.  Below is a pic.  Hope this helps and good luck!!!
Posted by jackeline.1584[/QUOTE]

kisskiss30

GGs on the Waterfront in Hollywod on Ocean Drive has a beautiful room for weddings and at a great budget.  Check out their webesite they have pricing.  They allow outside vendors, which I think is key in saving money.

Use silk flowers for your bouquets, bouts and corsages lovetheblooms (all one word) on etsy.com.  They have beautiful flowers and packages for under $200.

Use candles and flowers petals to decorate your tables.  If your room is already beautifully decorated, just white crisp tablecloths will do the trick.

I think pictures are so key to a wedding.  It's the memory you're going to keep afterwards.  Rubber Boots Photography LLC offers great pictures and rates.

For music, a d.j. is the most inexpensive way to go. Also, there are IPOD players that will play your playlist!

Have fun finding your wedding dress and let the girls pay for their own.  Mens Warehouse offers the groom a free rental when the groomsmen get theirs.

Hope this helps.

MWTuxedo

First off congratulations!

Second, you're not wrong wanting to save money. Weddings shouldn't be expensive endeavors if you don't want them to be. 

Just as KissKiss30 said, we do offer a free groom's tux rental when there are 5 groomsmen tuxes rented. And, when you register here - http://bit.ly/register2wed - you can save $30 off every tuxedo!

Good luck and have the day of your dreams!  

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