Cheap Save The Dates: How to Spread the Word Without Breaking the Bank
Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind of expenses. From the venue and catering to the dress and flowers, it’s easy to see how costs can quickly spiral out of control. But don’t worry, future newlyweds! You can still effectively spread the word about your big day without emptying your bank account. Here’s your guide to creating cheap save the dates that are both stylish and budget-friendly:
Embrace the DIY Spirit
Get Crafty with Paper
Simple Stationery: Opt for plain cardstock or recycled paper. Get creative with hand-lettering or use simple calligraphy pens for a personal touch.
Watercolor Wonders: Unleash your inner artist with watercolor paints. Create unique designs on plain paper or even use coffee filters for a rustic look.
Pressed Flower Power: For a truly unique and eco-friendly option, press wildflowers or leaves from your favorite spot and incorporate them into your save the dates.
Digital Delights
E-vites: Send stylish e-vites through platforms like Paperless Post or Evite. Many offer free or affordable templates and allow for easy customization.
Social Media Savvy: Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or even TikTok to announce your engagement and wedding date. Create a fun video or graphic to share with your loved ones.
Website Wonders: Create a simple wedding website that includes your save the date information, along with details about your engagement story and registry.
Think Outside the Box
Unexpected Materials
Simple Save the Date Card, Save the Date Postcard, Modern Save the
Vintage Postcards: Find vintage postcards at flea markets or antique stores and personalize them with your wedding date and a handwritten message.
Handmade Magnets: Create cute magnets with your wedding date and a simple design. They’re a practical and budget-friendly option that guests can display on their refrigerators.
Plantable Seed Paper: These unique save the dates are both eco-friendly and thoughtful. Guests can plant the paper and watch wildflowers grow in your honor.
Personal Touches
Handwritten Notes: Add a personal touch by hand-addressing each envelope. This small gesture shows your guests how much you value their presence.
Include a Small Gift: Consider including a small, inexpensive gift with your save the dates, such as a local honey jar, a packet of tea, or a personalized sticker.
Local Flair: Incorporate elements that reflect your local area, such as a map of your hometown or a photograph of a beloved landmark.
Leverage Free Resources
Free Design Tools
Canva: This user-friendly platform offers a wide variety of free templates and design tools that you can use to create your own save the dates.
PicMonkey: Another excellent option for creating eye-catching graphics, PicMonkey offers a free trial and affordable subscription plans.
Adobe Spark: This free online and mobile app allows you to easily create stunning graphics, videos, and web stories.
Free Online Resources
Free Stock Photo Websites: Websites like Unsplash and Pexels offer a vast library of high-quality images that you can use for your save the dates.
Font Libraries: Explore free font libraries like Google Fonts to find the perfect typography for your save the dates.
Free Online Printing Services: Some online printing services offer discounts or free shipping for first-time customers.
Tips for Keeping Costs Down
Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on save the dates and stick to it.
Order in Bulk: Ordering in bulk can often result in significant cost savings.
Consider Alternatives to Traditional Printing: Explore digital options or consider printing your save the dates at home.
Shop Around for the Best Prices: Compare prices from different vendors to find the best deals on paper, printing, and postage.
Don’t Be Afraid to DIY: As mentioned earlier, DIY projects are a fantastic way to save money and add a personal touch.
Creative Save the Date Ideas
“Scratch-Off” Cards: Create scratch-off cards that reveal your wedding date.
Puzzle Pieces: Send out puzzle pieces that, when assembled, reveal your wedding date and location.
“Wanted” Posters: Create fun “Wanted” posters featuring photos of yourselves with the wedding date as the “reward.”
Travel-Themed Save the Dates: If you’re having a destination wedding, incorporate travel-themed elements into your save the dates, such as vintage luggage tags or airplane tickets.
“Save the Date” Cookies: Bake delicious cookies with your wedding date iced on top and send them to your guests.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding can be a joyful but sometimes stressful experience. By exploring these budget-friendly options for creating save the dates, you can effectively spread the word about your big day without breaking the bank. Remember to embrace your creativity, explore free resources, and prioritize personal touches. Most importantly, have fun with the process and enjoy this special time with your loved ones!
