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17 · Thursday, January 28, 2010 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.oakvillebeaver.com Wedding Guide Five ways to plan a "recession" wedding (NC)--The average wedding costs almost $20,000 (according to a Weddingbells' survey conducted online in early 2009), but can you afford it? "After a recession, many couples are thinking twice about spending money on a chocolate fountain and matching table cloths," said Liz Lunney, senior vice president, Fiduciary Trust Company of Canada, a subsidiary of Franklin Templeton Investments Corp. Here are five ways to save money on your special day: 1. Party after the wedding The venue and food can be the largest drain on your budget. An option is to go to a vacation destination for a private ceremony with close family and friends. When you return, have a cocktail and hors d'oeuvresparty to celebrate. 2. The early bird saves money Consider booking your wedding in the winter or spring and even on a Friday or Sunday. Avoiding a Saturday in the summer will probably get you the venue you want and save you money.Watch for sales to save on wedding decorations and out-of-season items. A wedding dress on clearance can save you hundreds of dollars. 3. Stick to a VIP list Only invite friends and family who are closest to you to keep the numbers low. This can open up the opportunity to have the reception in a cheaper venue like someone's backyard or at a restaurant. 4. Get creative ­ ask friends to help For the personal touch, create your own invitations ­ it's a great way to save money too. Keep décor simple and order flowers in advance from a grocery store. 5. Something old...something borrowed...something creative. Do you really need a brand new cake knife or vases for the flowers? Instead, borrow items from family or friends, or rent what you need. "Ensure that you spend your hardearned dollars on what matters to you most and put the rest towards your future together. Remember, it's not so much about the day but the life you've planned together," added Ms. Lunney. More information on how to save for your future is available on websites like www.fiduciarytrust.ca. SVCC Banquet Hall St. Volodymyr Cultural Centre · Parties · Business Meetings · Conventions · Communions · Weddings · Banquets (905) 847-6477 Fax: (905) 847-6478 (Hwy #5 at 4th Line South) 1280 DUNDAS STREET WEST OAKVILLE · ON · L6M 4H9 www.svccoakville.com