Wedding rings symbolize the union of two people joined by the ring finger. Some people say the ring finger has an artery that
leads straight to the heart. I don't know if that's true
but it is romantic.Once married most people don't take off their wedding bands, as a sign of their faithfulness to each other. It's also a good idea to leave them on because it is
surprisingly easy to lose your rings.Here is the buzz on saving a few bucks on your wedding rings:
• Simple gold bands are the cheapest. They can run $125 to $400 each. They are also classic and elegant.
• Silver bands are modern and less expensive.
• Don't buy the designer version of gold bands. That will save you a bunch.
• If you want white metal, opt for white gold. Platinum is almost double the price.
• You'll save almost half if you buy a coordinating set or trio (engagement ring, your wedding band and his band.)
• If you want a ring with a stone, don't forget semi-precious stones are beautiful. You don't have to have diamonds in your wedding rings.
• Family wedding bands are a romantic heirloom and free.
• Shopping online can save you money. Make sure you pick a secure site with great customer service.
• Check out local pawn shops too.
• Consider stones other than diamonds. Princess Diana had a sapphire ring, you could too!
• If you really want something more-make a plan-start saving now and decide to upgrade your wedding rings on your fifth anniversary or your tenth anniversary. Maybe you could plan to renew your vows then too!
Attendant Gifts:For the girls, go practical. Buy a pretty necklace to wear at the wedding. You can often find strands of faux pearls cheaply in a jewelry shop like Claire’s. If you get a really good deal, pop for earrings too!
For the guys, a money clip can run from $5.00 to $10.00 depending on where you look. You can even start them off with a dollar bill in .The flower girl would probably love a stuffed animal. Maybe a set of bears dressed in bride and groom attire. Since the flower girl and ring bearer are the youngest members of the wedding party, you may want to throw practicality out the door and just buy them a toy you know they’ll love.
If you want to get creative, consider making each of your bridesmaids a photo collage or a small scrapbook with photos of you and them together. Small photo albums can be found at the dollar store and it takes just a glue gun and some imagination to decorate.
You can buy each attendant a book picked out especially for them. Write a personal inscription in the front of it. Gift certificates are also usually good gifts.
Consider also making your own bath products to give as gifts. Bath salts and soaps are actually quite easy and inexpensive to make. Recipes and directions can be found online or at the local craft store.
The Honeymoon:Unless you have a rich relative who’s willing to
send you on a honeymoon cruise, a lavish honeymoon
is probably out of the realm of possibility. But
that doesn’t mean you can’t have a nice getaway
after your wedding.
Consider local travel. Stay at a bed
and breakfast. What about a theme park
honeymoon? Some couples relish the idea
of camping. Rent and RV and get to an RV
park for a secluded honeymoon where you
can enjoy each other exclusively.
If you can get away for your
honeymoon, be sure to plan early. The earlier you book your trip, the better chance you have of getting a good rate. Consider an all-inclusive vacation or a cruise. These can be relatively low-cost and immensely enjoyable!
Don’t be afraid to ask for freebies. Everyone loves newlyweds , so take advantage of this nearly universal sentimentality by asking for discounts or freebies, suggests Ingram. If you tell your waiter that you're on your honeymoon, you may get a free dessert or bottle of wine. Ask the desk clerk at the hotel where you're staying for any free upgrades, as well.
