There are additions that are strong on impact and easy on the pocketbook. There are so many ways to create an affordable wedding; the following are some solutions which you can consider in term of saving:
Tables:
If tables have ugly bases or legs, rent tablecloths that will drop to the floor. Plain white will do the job and be least expensive. You can dress up the top of the table, however, by making an overlay (in a pattern or color) for just the tabletop. Make square ones for round tables so the edges will fall over the table a few inches. You might attach tassels to each corner.
Chairs:
If your reception is in a hall with standard industrial-style tables and chairs, you can add drama. Buy a bolt of any inexpensive sheer fabric and cut in lengths from the top of the chair to the floor. Tie each length to the top and back of each chair so it looks like a skirt. Add a single silk flower. Alternately, buy a big roll of wide satin and tie around each chair, at the seat, ending with a big bow at the back.
Table centres:
If you are finding the cost of flowers prohibitive, consider grouping pillar candles of various heights in the centre of the table. When lit, the effect is spectacular. If you are planning on a variety of small desserts, these can be grouped on a pedestal plate and put in the centre of the table, surrounded by tiny votives. A tray of candy or other nibbles is a practical option. If, by chances, you are attaching flowers to the pew ends at the service, have a friend remove them immediately after the service has ended and lay them as table centres at the reception, surrounded by votive candles.
Color Theme:
You can create extraordinary drama by choosing a show-stopping color theme. Suppose your choice is black and white or chocolate and cream. Every detail would be chosen to accentuate the theme colors, from table centre to napkins, from place cards to menu cards.
Guest Gifts:
A gif for guests is a nice gesture but not a requirement. Don’t waste your money on pricey items that you guests will never uses and are unlikely t keep. The best gifts are editable.
- Tiny box with miniature homemade cookies.
- Pair of chocolate truffles.
- Chocolate bar with your picture and name on the wrapping.
- Chinese fortune cookies.
- Italian confetti (candy-coated almonds) in a tiny basket.
- Candied almonds wrapped in a lacy handkerchief and tied with a ribbon.
- Shortbreads at a Scottish wedding.
- Marzipan candies at a Scandinavian wedding.
- Miniature bottles of sake at a Japanese wedding.
Don't waste your money on pricey items that your guests will never use and are unlikely to keep.