You just got married, and you’re feeling nothing but love. Then you get the bills for it, and your wedding bliss now turns to shock.
"You're on Long Island. People can go to the Hamptons, people can go to Montauk, they can go to the wineries," said Danielle Caldwell, a wedding planner based in Smithtown.
Caldwell has been an event and wedding planner for 20 years. She says weddings on Long Island can cost anywhere from tens of thousands of dollars to even six figures.
"Weddings have gotten really expensive, and yes, there are totally all different ways to cut those costs," she said.
According to Caldwell, a venue on Long Island can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000. Saturday weddings are the most popular and expensive, so choose another day of the week for some savings.
Catering is another big expense: $150 to $350 per person.
The best way to lower that is not to invite everyone you know, and aim for a 150-person guest list.
Professional bands can run $8,000 to $20,000. DJs can be much less, and there is also a hybrid.
"You have a DJ with some live elements, but you're not paying for a full-on band," said Caldwell.
A wedding planner may be another cost, but they can help keep you within your budget and may save you money in the long run.
"I'm working with vendors all the time. I'm seeing what these costs are. I know what to expect when you go to certain venues versus other venues," Caldwell said.
Digital invitations, simple floral arrangements, and up-and-coming photographers can also cut costs.