Leslie Norvell

The Unexpected Expense of Wedding Programs and Wedding Veils

There are wedding things that you expect to cost more: invitations, a wedding gown and photos. Then, there are other items included in the wedding that shock me in terms of their value. Two specific items that have stuck me with their sticker shock include wedding veils and wedding programs.

Luckily, I was able to make another plan, save some money and achieve the same effect. Finding these ways led me to look at things differently.

Veils. Are you kidding me!? Such a racket. In the bridal stores, these things cost about $100, and more from there as you add jewels, pearls or other adornments.

Photo credit: library0newbie.wordpress.com

Once you see this, you start to think this is really the only price and suppose that everyone does this. UNTIL, you are strolling through downtown LA (circa 9th and Maple), and you see the same exact wedding veil. I figured it would be less, so I ask the girl the price and I thought I heard her say $27. I asked for clarification, trying to hide the thrill in my eyes …. when she says, “not $27, $17.” Um … pardon me? This perfect bra-strap length, ivory tulle, ribbon trimmed, double layered veil of my dreams is $17? SOLD! The clip is somewhat plain, but with the money I saved, I can hot glue my heart out and still walk away with money in my pocket.

This experience taught me not to take things at face value. Do your homework because it could save you quite a bit of money.

Photo credit: GeoffWhite.com

My other eye-opener was wedding programs for the ceremony. I already had my invitations ordered before I started to consider a program. I looked up a few on-line that I liked, but when I went to price them, the cute ones were about $2 per program. This edges on favor pricing, in my situation. So, I hope you like your program, because it costs more than your favor. Deep in debate of whether or not we even needed programs, I stroll the aisles of office supply stores looking for the perfect pen to write name cards with. During one such trip, I find a completely basic program outline that runs through the printer. It was very plain, but its minor price tag gave me hope. $11 for 50 sheets? It’s a start.

So, I take a favorite engagement picture, visit a little costco.com photo center, print a bunch of wallet size images with coordinating border, and I’m on my way. I use double-sided foam tape to gain a 3-D effect on the program with my little wallet photos. Then, I hole-punched the “spine” of the program and added a bright ribbon. They don’t look absolutely professional, but they look polished and do the job.

Photo credit: YumSugar.com

Remember, by not swallowing prices at first sight, you might be able to save some money. A good start would be to look in unsuspecting aisles of stores. Go online and do some research. Be beautiful, be creative and be cheap!