The warmer months means plenty of weddings are taking place. Although many guests are happy to celebrate the occasion, they aren't thrilled about the cost that comes along with it. The cost can add up to go to even a few weddings each year, but there are several ways to attend all the weddings you want without going broke during wedding season.
Price compare hotels
Most couples will reserve a block of rooms for guests at a particular hotel, but that doesn't mean you have to stay there. Research other hotels in the area and see if they offer cheaper rates. You can also call them up and see if they'll negotiate with you on the price.
Shop early
When you shop early for a present, you get first pick of the gifts on the registry which means you have a bigger dollar range to work with. Shop later and you'll be stuck buying an expensive gift or shelling out cash. You're better off shopping as soon as you find out where the couple is registered.
Do your own primping
I know some ladies who primp before every wedding they attend - spray tan, hair, nails and makeup. If you're on a budget, this can work out to quite a bit of money especially if you're attending several weddings a year. Do your own primping at home to save some cash. Start using a self-tanning lotion at least a few weeks ahead of time to give yourself some good color before the event then do the rest of the primping the day of.
Go in on a group gift
If there's an expensive gift you think the couple would love, such as a weekend away at an inn or a spa, go in on the gift with a group of friends who are also attending the wedding. The couple won't expect it so it'll be a great surprise gift and often, it'll work out to be cheaper than had you purchased something from the registry.
Rent a wedding outfit
Dresses can be pretty expensive to purchase especially if you buy a new one for every wedding you attend. If you're like me, you also have to shell out even more money just to get it tailored, then you also have to pay to have it cleaned afterward. Instead of dealing with the hassle, rent your wedding outfits. Rent the Runway is a great option if you want to go the renting route. You get two sizes of each dress to ensure you get an outfit that fits and they take care of cleaning the dresses. There's also a discount for renting a second outfit at the same time.
Borrow a dress
If your budget is too tight to rent or buy a new outfit, ask a friend who is the same size as you if you can borrow something. Should you want to repay her kindness, whip up a dinner or dessert that she'll enjoy.
A wedding invitation shouldn't draw up fear that you're going to go broke just by attending all of the weddings. All it takes is a few adjustments and a little planning to allow you to go to the events without emptying your wallet in the process.
More from Lauren R:
Tips for throwing a summer party on a budget
Tips for handling weddings with your guy
The do's and don'ts of gift giving in a new relationship
