Need your wedding advice for Michigan local mag

Knot Annie

Hey Knotties,

I am back with a question for the magazine. Tell me:

What is your best wedding tip or secret? We want secrets from our Knotties that you might tell a new bride and something that they might not get from anywhere else. Maybe it’s to choose wedding colors that you’ll love in your home so that you can repurpose some of your wedding décor. Or maybe it’s to join the message boards! 

Spill your best secrets below and thanks in advance. Your advice is always priceless!

Knot Annie

Sue-n-Kevin

I think joining the message boards is important, mostly because I'm a DIY-er, on a budget. I've found countless ideas, plus the help of the local brides with vendors.

The one tip I have, which is true regardless of bridal geography, is to consider using gourmet stores that cater instead of just looking up "caterers". Local stores that do catering, for weddings and business functions, as well as home parties:

Holiday Market in Royal Oak

Joe's Produce in Livonia

Randazzo's (multiple locations)

Because they don't just cater, but also sell gourmet items, I've found that they are more willing to negotiate price and menu items than a standard caterer. They can also make arrangements for rentals, similar to caterers.

larzhope

I agree with Sue - I've saved so much money by utilizing resources from these great ladies here!

zantster

Something else I think is helpful is to not try too hard to create a wedding based on what you think other people expect or some impossible ideal i.e. no one can have a royal Kate and William wedding but Kate and William.  So, don't sweat it.  Be creative, focus on what will make you and the groom hapy and have fun!

amyn1919

I think one thing is that you can create and have a beautiful wedding on any budget! You can learn how to make so many DIY projects and learn what corners you can cut. It is essential to be on The Knot boards to get great referrals!

ChrissyT54

Skip the favors and make a donation to a local charity instead. No matter how amazing you think your favors are your guests will most likely not share your enthusiasm. Most of them will end up getting left behind or taken home and thrown away.

breeamber

Don't try to please everyone. Trust your instincts and make decisions based on what you and your fiance want. If you have your heart set on something (a certain color scheme, music, venue) and it is attainable, go for it! Don't even ask anyone else's opinion...you'll end up forgetting what it was your truly wanted into the first place.

bonnyandtim

My biggest tip that helped me save some $ is to host a few (not too many or your friends will get tired) home parties of things you'll need.

Mary Kay, Lia Sophia, Pampered Chef...there are a lot of companies that have good hostess sales!

dyanquinn

Go with a edible favor that you won't mind eating. Guests love treats and if they are left behind treats for you later!