- Seven Rules for a
Rock-Solid Prenup [article] - Whose Wedding Is
It, Anyway? [article] - One Week to the
Wedding: A... [article] - How To Find the
Perfect Location [article] - 20 Questions To Ask
Wedding... [article]
Where to Spend
Photographer:
Rely on recommendations from friends, relatives, and pros you know. View their portfolios online, and hire the photographer with the best one.
Wedding Consultant:
For large weddings, a good one can be a godsend. As your girl Friday, she will be able to take on the lion's share of the wedding stress. (Note: Weddings are her industry; expect industry discounts.)
Cake:
Unless you or your best friend is a pastry chef, don't attempt to make your own wedding cake to cut costs.
Food Quality:
Good food can mean the difference between an unforgettable evening and grumpy guests. Too often, caterers underestimate portions. Choose chicken over prime rib, but never skimp on the quality (or quantity) of your ingredients.
Booze:
The approach is pizzazz without a huge bar bill, but running out of liquor is a no-no. Good beer, good wine, and a snappy cocktail are all you need. Negotiate case discounts with a vineyard, shop at a regional discount shop (such as Trader Joe's), or check out the wine picks of Target's new sommelier.
Labor:
Experienced people will keep your guests happy. Make sure they're pros.
Excerpted from Anti-Bride Wedding Planner by Carolyn Gerin, Kathleen Hughes, Amy Glynn Hornick. © Chronicle Books.
Photographer:
Rely on recommendations from friends, relatives, and pros you know. View their portfolios online, and hire the photographer with the best one.
Wedding Consultant:
For large weddings, a good one can be a godsend. As your girl Friday, she will be able to take on the lion's share of the wedding stress. (Note: Weddings are her industry; expect industry discounts.)
Cake:
Unless you or your best friend is a pastry chef, don't attempt to make your own wedding cake to cut costs.
Food Quality:
Good food can mean the difference between an unforgettable evening and grumpy guests. Too often, caterers underestimate portions. Choose chicken over prime rib, but never skimp on the quality (or quantity) of your ingredients.
Booze:
The approach is pizzazz without a huge bar bill, but running out of liquor is a no-no. Good beer, good wine, and a snappy cocktail are all you need. Negotiate case discounts with a vineyard, shop at a regional discount shop (such as Trader Joe's), or check out the wine picks of Target's new sommelier.
Labor:
Experienced people will keep your guests happy. Make sure they're pros.
Excerpted from Anti-Bride Wedding Planner by Carolyn Gerin, Kathleen Hughes, Amy Glynn Hornick. © Chronicle Books.