Keep in mind that the more money you save, the more can be given to the things that are the most important to you: your dress, your honeymoon or even your caterer. Are you looking for something that can be done on a budget, and done well? Look to your centerpieces! Here are some great ideas:

1. Upcycle your Bouquets

Here’s a fantastic idea that’s becoming a new rage: use your bridesmaid’s bouquets as centerpieces. Chances are that you won’t have as many bridesmaids as you have tables but you can use them on the food table or even on every other table. If you have a large bridal party, consider alternating centerpieces: one table has a bouquet and one has a candle arrangement in coordinating colours. They can place them “in water” on the tables and then take them home after the party as keepsakes.

2. Keep It Small

If your heart is set on centerpieces of beautiful flowers put together by a professional, shop smart and get the best price available. Buying flowers that are in season and local may require you to be a bit flexible, but will net you a better price. In addition, keeping your centerpieces less than 12 inches in height will lower the price. Simple arrangements will be cheaper than those that are more extravagant so keep that in mind.

3. Stones or Shells

I love this look! A simple tall, glass candleholder, surrounded by smaller glass tea light holders are the centerpiece, and the grouping is surrounded by river stones or combined with sea shells. It’s a simple, natural look that lends a Zen feeling to the table. The centerpiece is perfect for a garden wedding and will have your friends copying your great idea for their own weddings.

4. Cupcakes

Order a smaller wedding cake and use a cupcake tree for the centerpiece; it is a cute, fun idea that can look as simple or exquisite as you desire. Not only does this make a fantastic centerpiece but will give your guest ready access to their dessert at the same time. Consider using this centerpiece idea in combination with a smaller cake; you’ll save twofold.

5. Oil Lamps

You can buy oil lamps or lanterns at Wal-Mart for around $5 apiece. A bottle of paraffin oil will easy fill 3-5 lamps and costs less than a fiver. An oil lamp lit on each table makes a stunning, elegant vision. You may think it too plain, but wait until the lights are turned down; trust me, it will look amazing! If you want to get a bit more fancy with the idea, surround the lamps with loose flowers, flower petals or even pretty leaves that you’ve collected. The idea lends itself to hundreds of unique looks!

Your wedding doesn’t have to be extravagant to be the talk of the season. Save your budget for the things that matter most, like your dress, and use your rewards card the large expenses. Using your travel points for your honeymoon will save you even more money. Just remember, there are creative ways to fund your wedding, and you don’t have to go broke in the process!

Author’s Bio

Angie Trace is a money consultant and content contributor for a financial comparison website offering detailed comparisons for the top providers, and featuring bad credit builder credit cards for those who’ve experienced an unfortunate hit to their credit score.

Cherub Ice Sculptures

Cherubs are a timeless classic for weddings, and offer a number of options for a sculpture – choose two cherubs holding a banner or heart, or add musical instruments for a cute twist. You could even add some functionality to your cherub ice carving by adding an ice luge feature that can be used to dispense drinks at your reception.

Heart Ice Sculptures

Hearts are another classic, and can be as simple or elaborate as you like – choose a series of interlinked hearts for a breathtaking centerpiece on the bridal table, or choose smaller hearts for all tables. You could even position a giant heart or two at the entrance of your reception venue for a romantic touch.

Swan Sculptures

Swans are always an instant hit, and for good reason. Nothing could be more romantic than a pair of entwined swans. A striking swan sculpture made entirely of ice and positioned on the bridal table or at the entrance to your reception venue is sure to have your guests mesmerized.

Favourite Characters

If you have always secretly dreamed of a Beauty and the Beast themed wedding, or a Little Mermaid under the sea wedding, then a life-like ice sculpture of your favourite character will be the ultimate way to bring your dream wedding to life.

Bride and Groom’s Names

Keep it simple and choose a design that has your names sculpted in ice. This can be done in any shape or form – either as part of a design, or as cursive script as a centerpiece for the bridal table.

Functional Ice Sculptures

To add even more value to your sculpture, why not consider a functional piece – ice luges can be used to pour cocktails, while champagne or snacks can be served on layer platters made of ice. These can have decorative items, while still adding a practical element to these ice sculptures, making them the perfect option for a fun wedding reception.

Author Bio:

Joan Smith is a writer and event specialist at Ice Art, offering ice sculptures to suit any occasion. Choose from live ice carving to custom designed ice sculptures, wedding and party ice sculptures and more.