Smart But Not Cheap: Brides Take Over

Have you joined the ranks of the frugalistas?

The term frugalista began circulating last year.  Defined by the New York Times: a frugalista is a person who lives a frugal lifestyle but stays fashionable by buying second-hand, shopping for discounts, etc.

I hereby proclaim myself a frugalista and declare that I will stick to my budget without sacrificing my sense of style and personality.

Are you with me?

It’s more important than ever to watch your spending now with the economy showing little hope of a turn around any time soon.  But that is NOT…I repeat IS NOT…a reason to get “cheap.”  Ever.

A frugalista values her money and spends wisely on what is important to her.  She scrimps and saves, but only where it pays to do so.  She is NOT “cheap.”

A “cheap chick” seeks out and buys what she’s looking for at the lowest price.  Period.

This is not necessarily a good idea.  If you’re looking for a pair of flip flops for your bridal party to change into during the wedding reception, cheap is awesome.  After all, the flops only need to survive the night.

But if you’re entrusting your photography to a cheap amateur who may…or may not…capture those images that will be all you’ll have left of your day once it’s done…maybe not such a brilliant idea.

I turn to my savvy sister Ruth Mantell over at Marketwatch.com for some backup.  In her article, “When It Pays To Pay,” she points out the all important truth that it doesn’t always pay to pay less.  Tagging along on a few of her recommendations:

1) It Pays To Have Expert Advice.  One reason to hire a professional at your wedding is the knowledge they have as an expert.  They know the wedding business inside and out; they can help you save with ideas you’d never even think of.  So pimp out your experts!  They are worth their weight in gold.

2) It Pays To Pamper Yourself. Of course you want to trim your wedding budget…but allow yourself a little splurge now and then.  Build the Splurge Factor into your budget.  It will make you happy and keep you happily on budget.

3) It Pays To Pay Someone Instead of DIY. If you don’t have the time or desire to be crafty, don’t take on a complicated DIY wedding project.  Sure, it saves money…but do you really want to spend 16 hours sweating over your wedding favors?  If not, skip the DIY projects.

Sometimes it does pay to pay.  A frugalista is smart…not cheap.  Go for the best value, not just the best price.

NOTE: But don’t despair if you can’t find an option to fit your budget.  Make your own wedding discounts! Download my free Bride’s Secret Weapon special report to learn how to get a discount on ANY product or service for your wedding.

Got a frugalista experience?  Leave me a comment.