cutting back

Posted Monday, January 11, 2010 12:17 AM

I was looking over what (few) things we've committed to so far + estimated costs of other things and was shocked at how much money it totaled already.  And this estimated total doesn't even include such things as FH's tux rental, gifts for attendants/parents/significant other, wedding bands, flowers, reception decorations, etc.

FH and I have decided to further cut back our expenses.  We weren't planning on wastefully spending money on the wedding anyway, but now we have to be even more careful.  We decided to forgo the save-the-dates and professional videographer.  I'm also considering taking a more DIY approach to the invitations.  I can already tell from looking at the numbers that a couple hundred dollars could be saved.  I'm just not very confident in being able to get everything printed and cut right.  Hopefully, I'll feel different after I receive the sample paper I ordered and give them a try.  I'm sad about no longer having save-the-date cards.  I really liked them, and it took me a lot of work to convince FH to agree to them. haha ^^;  As for the video, we'll just ask a family member with a video camera to tape the ceremony and pieces of the reception.  I know the quality won't be the same, but I would rather save the $800~$1000.

Update:
- FH and I have gone over the photographer contract, asked questions, and have received answers.  (She is very, very quick to respond!)  All I have to do now is print it out, fill it out, and send it in with the deposit.
- Need to schedule an engagement session with photographer. (February? March?)
- FH and I both want our engagement session location to be the university where we met.  We've come up with a list of places at the school that are important to us and will hopefully make for good shots.  I'll be visiting the school in the next few days to take some pictures of these sites myself and see how they look.
- Haven't completed my DJ comparison worksheet.  Need to make some calls to fill in missing information.
- Bakers did not get back with me about the cherry blossom branches and blossoms.  I'll need to call them this week to get some prices.
- Another meeting with our priest on Tuesday.  We'll be asking if we can sign up for Pre-Cana.
- Reception site hasn't answered my e-mail about table and chair dimensions.  Need to follow up with phone call.
- Need to compare linen and delivery prices of different rental places
- Call salon about pricing for hair trials
- Need to visit a flower shop to get a feel of what flowers I want in the wedding and find a florist!