Events are great if you want to spend lots of money, But for those of us wanting to save, Can we save money and enjoy the event? Here are some tips.

• Giving gifts? Plan in advance so you can get the best deals. Know your budget and watch prices. Check every couple days! Prices tend to change.

• Re-gift items that you get from other people that you do not want. Be sure to keep a nice list so you do not give that same person the item they gave you, You see that happen all the time, and it can be really sad! Don't make that mistake.

• Try to do potlucks for everything instead of going to restaurants; such as weddings, birthdays, family get-togethers. It seems weird, And maybe a bit trashy, But these things can add up fast! Whatever it is a potluck will work.
  

Wedding and Engagement tips

Did you know the average wedding costs 20,000
Plus the engagement ring adds up. Women! I know you want that nice ring, But seriously. When you marry the guy, That debt is yours! So be careful.

• Know your lover’s expectations on the engagement ring before you propose. Some people want expensive fancy rings while some people are satisfied with something small and cheaper. Some people may not even want a ring at all; they may be happy with just a proposal. Try to figure out what your man or woman wants. This could save you thousands. Some tips to find out what she would like....

• Ask her friends.
• Talk to her family members! Just don't let her find out.

• Price checks everywhere! Do not be afraid to ask for a discount.

• Consider buying used rings. New ones can be extremely overpriced; you can get the ring deep cleaned, or you can clean it yourself. Rings are durable and beautiful, and most people will not know if they are used or new. You can always get a nice box online. I wouldn't mind a used ring, As long as he cleans it with a strong chemical to kill any bacteria. Also repairs any flaws if necessary!

• Learn a little bit about the stones and metals that are in the rings before buying; you do not want to get a bad deal. People are not always honest; get a friend to come with you to check out the ring. Many people jump to buy a diamond. Does she even want a diamond? Diamonds are overpriced. If she doesn't care for diamonds, Don't get her one, You can get her a more valuable stone for a better price.
  

• Go to pawn shops or buy online for beautiful rings.

• Wedding dresses are a one-day thing. Why spend a ton of money on something you will wear one day and it will collect dust in your closet? Some people like to have their dress, but you can have tons of photos of it to remember. Consider renting a dress, borrowing one or buying one used. Then resell it when you are done. You could probably get all of your money back. I love the website Tradesy for discounted wedding items. I also see pretty wedding dresses at second hand stores.

• Consider a nice prom dress for your wedding instead. They look similar and come in a variety of colors! You can also accessorize to give your dress a more “wedding” like appearance. Prom dresses are much cheaper than wedding dresses.

• Try to find a corporation or multiple to sponsor your wedding. It may be awkward to have to advertise at your wedding, but it could pay a good chunk. Try to contact a variety of companies that have things that you need available. You may have to call more than once and go to the business and talk to managers. Decide your comfort level beforehand. You can have advertising printed on the wedding dress, the stage, the invitations, and the photos. The possibilities are endless! You don't have to go too extreme if you don't want to. It could be as simple as, Advertising on the napkins. Or the balloons, Something not too noticeable.

• Do not get married on a Saturday! This is the busiest day. Choose a less busy day and save thousands.

• Take your time getting married; book everything super early! That way you will lock in a good price.

• Avoid peak season weddings. Book your wedding a couple weeks before or after wedding season starts. Even consider getting married in the winter!
• Find a venue that does not make you use their vendors. This will give you a massive amount of flexibility in choosing the best people for your money.
• Eliminate the bar or have limits.
• Do not use physical invitations instead send a digital invite.
  

See more Money saving wedding tips in PART TWO!
Thank you Pixabay and AdinaVoicu for the photos!