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Monday, March 9, 2009

Inexpensive Weddings Elopement Packages

y $30,000, inexpensive weddings elopement packages can be very appealing for couples on a tight budget. Before opting for the cheapest nuptials, however, couples should be sure they understand what services are included in an elopement package and what they can expect on their wedding day.

Defining Inexpensive

When a couple begins to plan a destination wedding or elopement, the first thing they should do is define what they consider inexpensive. For some couples, even a small celebration may run several thousand dollars depending on the location and amenities they choose, which can be more expensive than a simpler, more traditional wedding ceremony and reception. On the other hand, a couple that is faced with the prospect of a large celebration in an urban area may find that a more exotic elopement can be a substantial savings. The key is to find the best celebration for the best budget without compromising on the romance, quality, and special sentiments of the day.

Why Go Cheap?

Couples may choose inexpensive elopement packages for a number of reasons. As two individuals join their lives together, they are often confronted with other expenses such as purchasing a home, reducing student loan or credit card debt, continuing education, or starting a family. Saving money by opting for an inexpensive elopement is a fiscally responsible choice that can be just as meaningful and romantic as a more lavish celebration.

Finding Elopement Packages

Finding inexpensive weddings elopement packages can be easy, but couples should plan carefully to find the very best deals for their special day. Many resorts, hotels, and wedding planners in popular destinations offer elopement and destination wedding packages, and couples can contact different planners and facilities to inquire about less expensive options than the packages that may be advertised. Couples could also opt to hire a wedding planner on a consultancy basis for a cheaper rate, or they could make the wedding arrangements themselves if they are familiar with the destination and its legal requirements. The steps to finding the least expensive elopement options are:

1. Choose a destination. Exotic, far away locations will generally be more difficult – and more expensive – to plan.
2. Investigate package deals. These may be from planners, resorts, or agencies, but each package will have unique features and different prices.
3. Ask about cheaper options. Customizing some aspects of the festivities may allow couples to lower the price.
4. Plan early for the best deals. Popular wedding months such as May, June, and December often have higher prices if packages are booked at the last minute. Airfare should also be booked well in advance for the cheapest prices.
5. Save up to pay expenses. By saving before the wedding, couples can pay for the package and any other expenses right away without accumulating debt.

Costs

Elopement packages can be as cheap as just $100 or they may cost several thousand dollars for a couple’s perfect day. Factors that influence the cost include:

* Destination: Travel costs are a significant expense for elopements; couples who marry close to home can save much more. More exotic, popular destinations such as Hawaii, the Caribbean, Florida, and Europe are also more expensive.
* Date: Peak wedding season dates are generally more expensive, even for simple elopement packages. Couples willing to marry during slower periods can often take advantage of lower hotel rates and other reduced prices. Another date consideration is the speed of the arrangements: elopements arranged at the last minute may incur rush fees.
* Guests: While many couples elope privately, including guests such as close family members, parents, and friends is also popular. The more guests there are at the festivities, the more expensive the package will be.
* Amenities: Many packages offer basic services for a minimal cost but also offer a range of additional services such as videography, cultural touches, hair appointments, live music and more for additional fees. Eliminating these extra touches will keep costs as low as possible.

Services

A basic elopement package will offer the bride and groom standard nuptial services such as a simple ceremony that fulfills the legal requirements for marriage, a few photographs, basic flowers, and perhaps simple music or a small champagne toast. This may seem too simple for many couples, but resorts and planners who arrange elopements frequently offer additional services for additional fees. Couple’s massages, commemorative certificates, souvenir toasting flutes, meals, and more elaborate ceremonies are popular add-ons. While these will increase the final price of the elopement package, couples may consider additional services as a way to personalize their special day. In particular, couples who may be saving thousands of dollars by not having a traditional ceremony and reception may enjoy splurging on extra touches to make their elopement even more memorable.

Making Inexpensive Weddings Elopement Packages even Cheaper

The tightest of budgets may require even more cost-cutting techniques. Ways a couple can make packages even cheaper include:

* Choosing a location such as a hotel or park close to home that will not require travel costs
* Opting for a private event without guests
* Eliminating all ceremony extras from the package
* Booking the elopement with the honeymoon for better deals
* Buying flowers and other accessories without including them in the package to better control costs
* Choosing a destination wedding dress and groom’s suit that can easily be reused

Inexpensive weddings elopement packages are a great way for couples on a budget to plan their special day without accumulating excessive debt. Even a small, private ceremony can be memorable and romantic without straining the budget, and by eloping, a couple may be even better prepared for the financial challenges of starting their life together.

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