Real Brides' Best (and Worst) Wedding Splurges
The real deal on what was worth the extra dough and what wasn't.
Worth the Splurge
"I thought that the dress and flowers were worth spending a little extra on. I got to feel like the beautiful, perfect bride!" -Karen, Oakmont, PA
"Instead of buying favors, we made a donation to the American Heart Association in honor of my husband's father who died from a heart attack five years ago. No one seemed to care that there weren't any favors, and I can't think of a better way to spend money than to give it to a good cause." -Beth, Pittsburgh, PA
"We paid to extend the reception an extra hour. The added time with our family and friends was well worth it. And everyone was still in full party spirit up until the very last song was played!" -Emily, Pittsburgh, PA
"I think it's worth splurging on a photographer and videographer who produce high-quality work. After the day is over, the photos and video are what you'll have to remember it. Nothing else lasts!" -Krista, Glenolden, PA
"Our DJ was awesome. He brought along two assistants, which made him cost a little bit more, but they really got the whole crowd pumped up. With his assistants helping, the DJ was able to concentrate on what he did best: playing fantastic music!" -Beth
Should Have Skipped It
Sometimes the little things really don't make a difference, and piling up debt certainly never makes sense. Heed these words of warning.
"I could have done without an expensive wedding cake and just served cupcakes. A friend of mine did that, and they were a big hit." -Meg, Wilmington, DE
"I wish I'd spent less on flowers. All I really wanted was an eclectic mix of herbs and greenery, because that's more my style, but I got talked up by the florist!" -Melissa W., Brooklyn, NY
"I had baskets of toiletry items placed in the bathrooms for guests, but no one used any of the stuff. The ceremony programs seemed important when I was planning, but in the end I thought they were a waste of paper." -Kate
"I'm probably in the minority here, but I couldn't justify spending a ton of money on my wedding dress. Of course I wanted it to be beautiful and something I felt good in, but I really couldn't see spending $1000+ on something I'd wear once. I found a dress at a chain retailer that I loved for $500 and was very happy with it." -Erika, Jackson Heights, NY
Tell us: What were YOUR best and worst wedding splurges?
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