Nowadays, more and more people are using wedding websites to assist them during the wedding planning process. You might wonder why exactly are people using them?
In this article, we’ll give you 11 reasons as to why you need a wedding website. In summary, a wedding website essentially saves you from a lot of stress because it’s efficient and effective. Read on to learn exactly what makes it that way.
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1. It’s Cost-Effective
Weddings can be very expensive. When it comes to creating traditional wedding invitations, it also requires a significant amount of money, especially if you’re inviting many people. This doesn’t include the additional costs to develop RSVP cards as well as postage costs.
Having a wedding website is the perfect way to minimize this cost. Inviting guests using links that will lead to your site and allowing them to RSVP on your site is cost-effective and more comfortable to do.
2. It’s Eco-Friendly
Having a wedding website is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. It’s an eco-friendly option where you won’t have to worry about using paper to create your wedding invitations, envelopes, and RSVP cards which will likely end in the rubbish bin sooner or later anyway.
A wedding website will include all of those things without a single piece of paper involved. It is more beneficial because you won’t need to wait for people’s responses and receive them once your website is shared with your guest list.
3. It’s Efficient
Besides being cost-effective and eco-friendly, having a wedding website is a more efficient way to keep track of your planning process. It can be an all-in-one place where you can manage everything related to your wedding. On top that, you can make it a one-stop-shop for all updates or changes to the event.
It’s significantly more efficient because you won’t need to worry about your wedding invitation design. You can simply use the wedding website examples for reference, and adjust them to fit your special day.
4. To Collect RSVPs Easily
Because guests can RSVP on your site by simply replying to the invitation, you can easily track them. You’ll know if plus ones or additional guests are coming to your wedding by allowing your guests to give additional details since a textbox on a website can hold a lot more info than a paper invite.
This way, you can update your vendors such as your caterers to prepare and adjust accordingly. It helps save you from any unnecessary expenditures or becoming less prepared for your guests.
5. To Share Your Love Story
On your wedding website, you can share your love story as a couple. Your family and close friends might already know about your story, but some of your guests probably don’t.
You can share some of your proposal, engagement, pre-wedding photos, as well as some candids and blasts from the past to add a more personal touch and build excitement for your guests.
6. To Set Guest Expectations
Guests often have questions about the wedding day itself. Questions like “where should I park my car?, what’s the dress code?, Can I bring my kids?, Where’s the location of the wedding?” etc. These commonly asked wedding guest questions can be a lot for a couple to deal with amidst everything else.
Wedding websites allow you to create an FAQ section to easily answer questions about your wedding day in advance. You can anticipate the questions your guests may ask and provide answers on your wedding website. As soon as your guests open the site, they’ll know exactly what to expect, and save you the headache of fielding questions yourselves!
7. To Communicate Last-Minute Changes
As well prepared as you may be, surprises happen. You might have unfavorable conditions pop up where you need to make last-minute changes before the wedding.
Things like the weather forecast predicting heavy rain, changing the wedding size, or changing the wedding date can happen unexpectedly. You may need to adjust the wedding or parking location. But the next question that arises is how you can deliver the message quickly?
Instead of updating your guest through hundreds of calls and texts, having a wedding website allows you to quickly and efficiently communicate your last-minute changes.
8. To Upload Your Wedding Gallery
A wedding website is also a great place to share photos and videos of your wedding day. Guests who want to see the images and videos of you and them can easily visit your site to view it. This is especially great for people who couldn’t make it to the wedding. They can see what events happened during that day.
To make it more personal and organized, you can even set up your photos and videos by the group of people attending the wedding. It could have sections dedicated to your families, close friends, college friends, coworkers, and your other network circles.
9. To Collect Well-Wishes from Guests
It would be hard for you to listen to all of their wishes for you with many guests, especially when the wedding ceremony is time-bound. As an alternative, wedding websites allow guests to type in their best wishes for their wedding on the website. Thus you can go through all of them during your free time!
10. To Share Your Registry
Having a wedding website means that guests will have easy access to your registry. All you need to do is create a navigational link directly to your wedding registry, and the guests can see which items you want and whether or not they’ve been purchased or not.
Having a wedding registry is a great way to let your guests know what you want and will appreciate. It lessens the risk and fear of them purchasing something that you might end up not using or just simply dislike.
11. To Have as an Everlasting Memento
While the primary purpose of having a wedding website is to help you during your wedding day, it can also be used as an everlasting memento to reminiscence the sweet moments you went through on that day. You can allow guests to download the photos they want at any time. A wedding website’s final use is to allow you and your guests to relive all the special moments for many years to come!
In Conclusion
Now you know the eleven reasons why you need a wedding website for your special day. All that’s left for you to do is start creating your wedding website and prepare for the big day!
Remember that you can always use wedding website templates to create your site and then customize the elements inside to your liking. Read this post to learn more about How to Make a Beautiful Wedding Website. Good luck!
This article originally appeared on Budget Savvy Bride and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
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15 cheap wedding venues that will save you a ton of money
Getting engaged is the easy part, however, saving money on your wedding is where many couples find themselves stuck. Whether your wedding budget is $1,000 or $20,000, couples like you still wonder what cheap wedding venues are out there that will save them loads of money. Or what wedding venues are out there that cost significantly lower than most?
When planning a wedding, the one thing couples will notice is that the wedding venue is one of the largest expenses of a wedding budget. According to The Knot, a wedding venue is about 50% of the overall budget. So being able to cut the cost of the wedding venue is huge!
At the end of the day, a venue is the main foundation of a wedding. This is where guests will be celebrating the big day, dining the meals from the catering team, loving the stunning decor and watching the couple’s first dance. It will forever mark the beginning moments of the couple’s life together and kickstart their memories as a married couple.
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Now that we have sorted the importance of a wedding venue, here are cheap wedding venues to help save money on the wedding budget.
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There really are no cheaper wedding venues than the couple’s home. What makes a home a great option for a small wedding? It is free – nothing better for the budget! If there is space within the home, using it can truly make the day special. Start by setting up chairs in the living room, dining room, or in the backyard. Then, decorate the home in the style that you want.
The best part is that the couple does not have to worry about driving to an alternate location. However, the only downside is that the couple does not have a place to themselves for the entire day. There will be many people going through the home from the bathroom to the kitchen, so remember to make sure to hide any valuables. Lastly, the music will have to be at a certain volume to avoid disturbing the neighbors.
Of course, if the couple’s home is not an option, ask a friend or family member if they mind hosting. Make sure that there is a gift in the works to show appreciation for allowing the wedding to proceed in their space.
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Couples can’t go wrong by getting married at a courthouse. It is by far the most popular option out there, as the courthouse is the main go-to place for a more affordable wedding ceremony. Depending on the city where they live and the courthouse being used, they typically allow around 5-10 people to accompany them.
This is a perfect spot if the couple wanted a more intimate setting. Some courthouses cost money but never the value of what a traditional venue would cost. On average, a couple could budget spending less than $100. However, each city, town and country have different rules and prices, so make sure to research ahead of time.
Having trouble cutting down the guest list? Having your marriage ceremony at the courthouse will help in that department. It will not only help to cut down the ceremony guest list but also allow the couple to save money in the process. Since the courthouse is a benefit for paying less for the wedding ceremony, the couple can focus their money on the reception celebration with the guests.
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Love the idea of a wedding at home? Then the idea of having a backyard wedding is something to think about. If the couple or a friend or family member has a large enough backyard to have the wedding and reception, it will help the wedding cost greatly. It is amazing what you can do to spruce up a backyard by simply scrolling on Pinterest for ideas and following the instructions from creative content creators.
If decorating or DIY projects are not a task worth trying, there is always the option to rent a company or asking a crafty friend to give the backyard a makeover.
What do you need to transform a backyard? It would be best to rent tables, chairs and decor. An alternative option would be to get chair covers for existing chairs or using fold-up chairs.
Remember to plan ahead because not all backyards are the same. Map out how many people the backyard can hold, and don’t forget to include the reception and dance floor area.
Lastly, make sure to care for the yard by cutting the grass and picking up the leaves. Doing so will make the backyard look great on the wedding day.
Deposit Photos
Imagine a beautiful backdrop at the wedding and having nature as free decor. For couples who love the outdoors, consider having an outdoor wedding in a public park or even botanical gardens. This is a great idea for couples looking to get married in the summer or spring wedding season.
When planning an outdoor wedding, research if a permit is required ahead of time. Your local city hall will tell you what you need, such as rules and regulations for decorations and music noise level. Knowing this information ahead of time in order to avoid surprises
Remember that no matter what, no one truly has control of a public park nor what happens there or even the noise level of others. But don’t let that be a discouragement; plenty of couples have made it work. Plus, once the moment of exchanging vows begin and all eyes are on the loved one, the rest of the world disappears.
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For couples who appreciate or invest in art, an art gallery is a fantastic choice. Some couples choose art galleries because they desire something unique than the traditional wedding venue. Plus, there is nowhere else a couple can get decor like this, which makes this the perfect space to host a wedding.
Depending on the gallery, there really is not much that needs to be done to decorate the location when the interior is surrounded by all the hand-painted and hand-sculpted art. Allow the vibrant colors of abstract art, photography, paintings and 3-D statement pieces to be the main wedding decor. Surround the guests with colors of amazing artists that make everyone feel like they are traveling within art pieces.
Now all the couple really needs to do is hire catering for food and dining essentials if they don’t have some already. Create a night to remember at the right price at an art gallery in your city.
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Newly opened venues are always looking for customers and clients to use their space. Search up new places that are opening up in your city. Sometimes, couples get a huge deal when using new business compared to other more established locations.
Why? These new venues or even restaurants want business and desire opportunities that get potential customers to know about their location and service. In many cases, this provides the couple with an opportunity to ask if they will be willing to provide them with a discount.
Another way an engaged couple can score a deal with new wedding venues is if they offer to advertise their business in some way. Whether that is through a blog that they have started, sharing on social media or by having a side table at the wedding where they can have their business cards or flyers, the wedding will be providing an opportunity to share their business.
Look for new venues or companies spaces in your city that are looking for attention. Don’t be shy to ask because you never know what could happen.
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Want to set sail? Then consider having the wedding on a boat. The couple and guests can travel on the water with the wind blowing in their hair while they say I do with the city lights reflecting on the water in the background. Having the wedding on a rented boat is definitely a fun and unique way to escape the city without having to pack the bags.
Enjoy the benefit of having both the ceremony and reception in one location and removing the hassle of having family and friends drive to alternative locations. It saves time from having to move the guests around and also gives the couple the chance to have wedding photos done in the same space.
Take this idea even further by having the wedding on a cruise. Not only will the couple have both a ceremony and reception area, but it doubles as a honeymoon, too. Remember to have some anti-nausea products for guests who may get a little seasick.
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Are there any high school or college sweethearts? Nothing brings a couple back then actually hosting the wedding at the school where they met. Walk down the halls that used to feel large and reminisce about the sweet memories of all the things they used to love doing. They can also through old photos on the walls and peek through the window of old classes that helped them become the person they are today.
Depending on the school, some offer space on their campuses (such as sports fields, gyms, theatres or dining halls) for the couple to host their event at a significantly lower price than an average wedding venue.
Swarthmore College and UC Berkeley prices range from $100-$1,000 and up. They are just a few to take note of from Martha Stewart’s 15 Beautiful College Campuses Where You Can Get Hitched. To find out more, ask your alma mater if it is possible to get married there.
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For couples who are having a smaller wedding, they can think outside of the box and book a bed and breakfast. This is especially perfect for hosting their guests and wedding party under the same roof.
Additional benefits to having a wedding at a bed & breakfast include:
- It is an all-in-one wedding venue, with sleeping arrangements, dining, decor and catering.
- You get to have you and your guests together under one roof.
- It is an intimate location for the big day.
- Onsite catering could be an option.
- Many don’t offer site fees.
- Their wedding packages often include decor and catering.
Say I do in a flower-filled garden, and dance the night away under the cozy and charming bed and breakfast interior. This place will make all the guests feel at home as they celebrate the big day together.
To test out if a location is right for this occasion, choose a favorite and book a weekend away with friends. It is a great way to explore the bed and breakfast and relax at the same time. Plus, it would be a perfect time to give out bridesmaid proposal boxes.
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Any couple who wants a more spiritual ceremony over marriage at city hall or elsewhere can look no further than a local church, chapel or house of worship. Ask to see the requirements to get married at that location and find out if the wedding date and time of choice is available. It is better to do this sooner than later so that you can get ahead of other couples who are looking to use this location.
Here are some questions to ask a place of worship to get started:
- What is required for us to get married here?
- How long would the ceremony process be?
- Is there a dress code?
- Am I allowed to add decorations?
- Can we make our own vows?
Depending on the place of worship, a requirement may be that a couple needs to take a marriage counseling session or make a financial investment in order to use the space. Also, some places may have an additional space to use as a wedding venue, such as an adjacent hall or event space available for the weddding reception.
In addition, brides should think about the type of wedding dress they want and ensure that they are choosing an affordable wedding dress that is appropriate for their place of worship, as some may have stricter rules than others.
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Community centers are not just for playing sports, working out or going to the pool. They are a staple in the community that brings everyone recreational delight. They are also a destination with low rental fees where couples can book their wedding.
These centers and civic buildings are a large enough space for guests to socialize and dine comfortably. Take advantage of the structured exterior of the historic building for stunning wedding photos or even use the location for engagement photos.
Since community centers are often near city hall, they are usually equipped for large gatherings. They will also be able to provide a safe space to blast music loud without disturbing the neighborhood, as well as ensure there is room for the essentials, like tables and chairs.
Many times, they are more than willing to point a couple in the direction of catering companies they have worked with before. Having a wedding here also reduces having to drive long distances and puts your money toward the community.
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Thinking about having a wedding at a barn or farm is not so unconventional anymore. These days, brides are embracing the rustic feel of the venue and the DIY elegant barn wedding decor.
Since most barn locations are not full service, couples will need to think about getting essentials to run and host their wedding, as well as commercial cleaning of the barn. Depending on where you live, a license or insurance may be needed. Also, find out the rules of how loud the reception music can be.
When planning for a barn wedding, here are a few things that a couple may need to rent:
- Backup tent for the ceremony
- Decorations
- Lighting
- Tables and chairs
- Generators
- Vendor and catering tents
- Transportation to and from the parking area
- Portable restrooms
For wedding guests, be mindful of their seasonal allergies and, if possible, have a small stash of allergy medicine available if need be. Remember that weather conditions are unpredictable and seasons bring on their own unforeseen issues, so have bug spray and umbrellas on sight. Prepare ahead of time to allow any guests with disabilities to access the wedding location with ease.
tomtom022 / istockphoto
There is something that is so mesmerizing about being surrounded by wildlife. Fish swimming behind as the couple does their vows or wedding photos by the giraffes is something that can’t be recreated at just any venue. Choosing a local zoo or aquarium as a wedding venue will make the guests’ jaws drop.
Couples find this unique style of venue a surprisingly more affordable choice. Plus the money goes towards the animals, the staff who take care of them and keeps the facility running strong.
As couples think about taking a walk down wild side for their I dos. Here are a few zoos around the world that are stunning for a wedding:
- Phoenix Zoo in Arizona
- The Calgary Zoo in Alberta Canada
- San Diego Zoo & Safari Park in California
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio
- The Los Angeles Zoo in California
- Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens in South Carolina
- New England Aquarium in Massachusetts
- Waikiki Aquarium in Hawaii
What’s amazing about these cheap wedding venues is that you could be dining next to a tank of sea creatures or snapping photos in a safari. The guests will never forget a wedding like this!
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As much as we may want to have our wedding at home, due to space or other circumstances, that can’t always happen. Solution? Rent an Airbnb! These days couples can rent just about any location for an event. Why not see the most amazing Airbnb wedding venue options out there, including beach houses (think: beach wedding!), cabins or even castle-style homes.
Things to remember when planning to use an Airbnb as a wedding venue:
- Search for places in your area
- Consider the cleaning and per night rental fees
- Ensure that the venue allows weddings
- Prices may change depending on the day of week or time of the year
- Additional costs may be applied for events such as weddings or additional parties
- Be mindful of check-in and checkout times
- May need to book within their minimum-stay requirement
Couples will love how private these venues can be. Say goodbye to navigating through and around customers. A couple can focus on their day and use the other bedrooms are spaces for their wedding party to get ready. When the night is done, the couple also has a place to rest.
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Yes, engaged couples can have an outdoor wedding in the street. Of course, this is by no means a free price tag. Indeed, there are permits that are needed in order to block off the street for the wedding day. Couples can request one and get more information on the local government website or go down to city hall.
Imagine it now: filling the street block party style and getting a food truck for all the guests! Enjoy the sweet taste of a classic barbecue and drinks sitting on ice as everyone dances to the music with friends and family.
Here is a list of things of what is needed to make this wedding happen on the street:
- Permit to close the street.
- Tables and chairs
- Permit for additional service trucks like food trucks and alcohol.
- Hire a band or DJ
- Decorations
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The most important thing to consider when planning a cheap wedding is to watch your costs. Consider all the expenses that will come up, and make sure to cut the budget as much as possible.
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To wrap things up, as we went through the list of cheap places to get married, it is easy to say that couples can plan a wedding on a budget that is beautiful without spending loads of money. Regardless of the venue chosen, always ask questions. It is better to know ahead of time in order to have time to prepare.
And remember to enjoy the moment because it will be an amazing day filled with celebrations that will be remembered for a lifetime.
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This article
originally appeared on TheFinanciallyIndependentMillennial.comand was
syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
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Featured Image Credit: milindri / istockphoto.
