Wedding Budget: Where to Save and Where Not to Skimp PART 2 of 3

- DO skimp on invitations and programs. This DOES NOT mean print them yourself - this can often be more expensive after the cost of the paper, ink, and your time. See this blog post from a past client of mine who detailed all the costs she encountered making her own invitations. I recommend going to a local printer who can create simple, inexpensive, custom invitations for you in-house. Every experience I have had ordering invitations online has turned out to be a....I'll just say, a mistake, to be nice. You never know exactly what you're getting when you order online. You can't see the paper color, feel the weight and texture of it, and if there is a problem, it takes weeks to get it fixed. Having everything printed locally cuts your costs as well as your hassle. If there is sort of problem with the printing, it can be fixed within a day or two. In case you're wandering, I use Emily Mistretta at Minuteman Press in Lexington. Also, keep in mind that wedding programs are not necessary. If you're really tight on the budget, feel free to just eliminate them all together.

- DO skimp on transportation. Most of your guest will never see you arrive or leave (unless you do a tossing exit) so it's not smart to spend hundreds of dollars out of your budget on something your guests won't get to see. I also think it's cute when you use your own car and it can be decorated. Just be sure your groom doesn't drink or have a friend drive.

- DO NOT skimp on a videographer. I frequently hear brides say that they don't need a videographer or they are just going to have a friend film the ceremony. Mistake. No matter how awesome your photographer is, he or she can't photograph the sound, movement, and general feel of the day like a video can. And if you it right, you will end up with a movie-quality film you and your family can enjoy watching for the rest of time. My husband and I watch our wedding video every year on our anniversary, and when ever we get in nasty fights :). My favorite local wedding videographer is John Anders at Wolves Video.