More good advice from Pure Wow!

PureWow

editor@purewow.com (PureWow)

SPLURGE: YOUR DRESS

It’s the major “wow” moment of the whole entire affair. We’re not saying you should shell out 25K, but your white number should make you feel like your version of Cinderella whether that puts you in a poofy strapless number…or a jumpsuit. Don’t forget, alterations are also part of this “splurge”–a good bridal tailor is everything.

SCRIMP: YOUR PEDICURE

True story: No one is actually looking at your toes. Give ‘em a coat of clear in your bathroom the night before the big day and be done.

SPLURGE: THE FOOD

The mac and cheese fritters that taste like little balls of heaven? Yep, they’re totally worth the cost if it means you and your guests are happy. There are of course some places you can cut back (for example, hanger steak instead of filet mignon), but a well-fed crowd is a dancing crowd. Mangia!

SCRIMP: THE CAKE

Sure, cutting the cake together as newlyweds is a tradition, but who said it has to be a cake? Save major dollars by serving up much cheaper slices of pie or cupcakes or doughnuts. We promise there’s just as much sugar…and the moment will be equally sweet.

SPLURGE: THE PHOTOGRAPHER

If you’re going to go to all the trouble (and expense) of hosting an epic wedding bash, it’s worth it to pay an actual professional to document it. Unlike your Uncle Bobby with the DSLR, she’ll know how to capture you in your best light and your guests cutting a proper rug.

SCRIMP: THE OFFICIANT

Do you really want to pay a stranger when your BFF Betsy could just get ordained—and provide a way more heartfelt and personal ceremony? Reminder: The Internet is a wonderful thing.

SPLURGE: FLOWERS

Seriously, how hard is it to arrange bridal bouquets and assemble some flower crowns? Trust us, it’s very hard. Look, we’re not saying you can’t go for a minimalist look with your buds, but hiring an expert is money well spent. (Besides, day of, you are not going to have time to oversee all that centerpiece assembly.)

SCRIMP: WEDDING FAVORS

Will your guests “ooh” and “ahh” over the pretty succulents you spent hours and hours (and hours) arranging into gift bags? Of course. Will they remember to grab them when they’re drunk at the end of the night? Survey says…maybe? Feel free to send your loved ones home with a fun trinket, but don’t sink a ton of money into something nobody will miss.

SPLURGE: MUSIC

Whether you prefer a DJ or a professional wedding band (with lights! And a fog machine!), you get what you pay for in this category.

SCRIMP: ANYTHING YOU JUST DON’T CARE ABOUT

Maybe you don’t give a flying *$%# about embossed invitations. Maybe you and your fiancé actually hate champagne. Maybe you feel more like yourself in no makeup at all. Don’t shell out for stuff you think you’re supposed to want, but actually won’t make your big day any better. This is your show here. Price it accordingly.