Budget

30 Holiday Shopping Spree
Department stores are stocked with evening gowns during the holiday season. Consider it a gold mine for cocktail dresses that can become reasonably priced bridesmaid gowns. Save now, splurge later on your wedding dress.

31 TGIF
The most expensive days to get married in Minnesota are Saturdays from the end of April through October. If you’re low on budget, pick Friday for your special day. Saturday weddings in the Minnesota snow can also increase savings.

32 Country Chic
Easy-to-make, sweet-smelling jelly jar candles in coordinating hues make perfect guest favors or table centerpieces.

Here’s how it’s done:
Gather the necessary materials (easily found at a Michael’s craft store), including wax, glass jars or containers, wicks, crayons, and raffia.
Coarsely chop wax and crayons (for color) and melt in a double boiler, bring to 135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tie a length of wick to a straw and lay across the mouth of each jar. The wick should graze the bottom of the jar.
Pour hot wax into each jar, fill to desired height or, once wax is cooled, layer alternate colors for a striated effect.
Trim wicks and tie a length of raffia around each jar. For a fun touch, add a tag with your names and wedding date.