Brides and Grooms Finding New Ways to Afford Weddings in Rough Economy

Online, February 13, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Brides and grooms across the nation are finding new ways to cut their costs on wedding expenses in this struggling economy. Creative strategies for receptions, online commerce and budget cutting are many of the ways that bridal parties are keeping their costs low.

With couples' belts tightened in these rough times, families understand that weddings are happening on a shoestring budget. "We had a cash bar at our wedding and our families understood the constraints we are under in this economy," says 23 year old bride, Jessica Johnson. For the couples that do not want to go with a cash bar, many are limiting the amount or quality of the alcohol they purchase. Alcohol and catering are two of the largest reception expenses. Brunch receptions are another way to cut costs. The meals are typically lighter and guest do not drink as much or any alcohol in comparison to a nighttime reception.

One way that grooms and groomsmen are saving money is by buying their tuxedo online. There are several websites offering tuxedos for sale at or below rental prices. When these grooms are asked to participate in their friends' weddings, they are spared the expense of a tuxedo rental. "We have a large number of wedding parties come in to our shop looking to save money by eliminating future rentals. There has been a trend towards bridal parties thinking ahead by purchasing a style of tuxedo that can be worn to different types of future events. Sometimes groomsmen even make future wedding plans together so that some members of the group will not have to rent or purchase another tuxedo to participate in their wedding. Bridal party members often just purchase additional tuxedo vests and ties to customize their look for future weddings," says www.hdtuxedo.com spokesperson Sherry Smith. Tuxedo shops will typically measure men with no obligation and then the measurements can be used to purchase the correct tuxedo online.

Many brides are shopping online for their wedding dresses and gowns for their bridesmaids. Sites such as www.hdtuxedo.com and www.houseofbrides.com offer a variety of wedding dresses for prices that are much less than stores with the typical overhead. Many brides prefer the convenience and low pressure involved with online purchases. "Many brick and mortar retailers offer the same dresses at higher prices because they have higher costs, so many brides will test the fit of a dress at a retailer and then purchase online," says bridal expert at www.hdtuxedo.com, Terri Johnson.

Couples can drastically lower their costs by wedding on an off day. Deejays, reception halls, and caterers are normally booked on Saturday evening. For couples planning a wedding on a Friday, Sunday or even a weekday, these vendors typically will not have business for that day and will often give discounts since there is little demand for their services. Couples have to be sure to ask for these special discounts.

Many couples consider public parks or restaurants as reception sites. Many restaurants will offer a reception venue for free just to be able to make the food sales and public parks offer an attractive alternative to hotels or expensive reception halls.

H&D Tuxedo and Bridal is a family owned online and brick and mortar store operating since 1962. H&D offers tuxedos for sale for the price of a rental and a wide selection of bridal gowns and wedding favors at discount prices for wedding parties on a budget. Their online business can be found at www.hdtuxedo.com.