Money Saving Tips for Choosing a Wedding Location

As any Hollywood producer will tell you it's all about location, location, location! Choosing the perfect spot for your event can make all the difference when it comes to your wedding budget. By thinking outside the box you can save yourself a lot of headache and even more money! There are no rules to finding the ideal location and the traditional church ceremony followed by the ballroom reception are quickly becoming a thing of the past. And booking that 5 - Star hotel simply because your cousin had her wedding there is not the way to go when you are looking to stretch a dollar.What's right and budget friendly for one couple may not be right and budget friendly for you. This is your BIG day after all and it should represent who you are as couple.

Here are a few suggestions to get you thinking about the endless possibilities.

* The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing your location is.. YOUR BUDGET!

Once you've decided on what you're willing to spend do your very best to stick to it. If you have room to splurge here and there make sure you are splurging on the things that mean the most to you.

* Hosting your wedding at a hotel ballroom cann bring extra perks, like discounts on your guests rooms, free use of their shuttle buses to take guests to and from the airport and other sites ( therefore eliminating the need for other transportation ) amenities to use for your wedding weekend events and maybe even a free honeymoon suite for the wedding night. Check into all the bonuses and freebies offered by a hotel location. It could save you money in other areas of your budget making it a smart money move.

* An at home wedding is always a charming option. If hosting your event at your own home isn't a possibility look to friends and family who may be willing to lend you their fabulous apartment with a great city view or relaxing beach house. Don't be afraid to ask for favors, you can always return it later or accept the use of someone's home as their wedding gift. So look within your own network of friends and family to see what your options are.

* A hotel penthouse suite could be the perfect setting for a small wedding, with a guest list of under twenty - five people. Plus it doubles as a honeymoon suite and most include free breakfast in the morning.

* Consider your memberships in various professional and social clubs, like a golf course, country club or alma mater. Very often memberships can mean big discounts for special events held in their party rooms or on their grounds. If you aren't a member of any of these organizations try asking parents or other relatives who may be willing to help you out by using their own membership.

* A boat is an ideal location for smaller sized guest lists and you'll be surprised at how affordable their wedding packages can be! Some yachts - for - hire are half the price you'll find at hotels and ballrooms. Look into dinner cruises and the option to rent the boat out for a private event.

* Get out of the city! Some of the best deals and best locations are hidden away in quiet little towns just on the outskirts of the city. The Internet is a useful tool for researching small towns in your surrounding area. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce for information about local merchants, using the resources that are available in the town such as bed & breakfasts, florist, caterer, bakeries etc.. can save you a bundle!

* Outdoor weddings are romantic and fantastic! State or city parks are wonderful options for more casual weddings, while beaches offer that same appeal with more of a romantic feel and some beaches even offer wedding packages. Just make sure to look into any permits that you'd need to host an event at any public location. There are often rules and regulations that you'll need to adhere to regarding noise, alcohol and food preparation. If you look around you might find a site that specializes in outdoor weddings. Use your Internet skills to help you find a gem that you never knew existed!

* Many hotels have smaller ballrooms that can be booked for weddings with a lower price package. Check to see if they have a separate party area or if they'll allow you to use their enclosed pool or atrium.

* Destination weddings are becoming a popular choice for more and more couples these days. Putting in a little research time and effort can bring big savings your way. There are packages out there that give you the opportunity to host your wedding on a tropical island or other international location for half the cost of one you could have planned here in the U.S. Plus it doubles a mini vacation for your guests!

If you still need help finding the perfect location talk to a wedding coordinator or go to a professional site scout for special events. Check your state and regional wedding guides online and look for articles on the best places in your area to hold ceremonies, receptions and take pictures or visit www.getawayweddings.com for information on unique locations near you.

Wherever you decide to hold your big day make sure it is a reflection of who you are as a couple and fits your budget. You can have it all and not spend a fortune.