Being a good guest on a stricter budget

Wedding industry experts offer the following tips for people who are spending much of the summer watching friends and relatives get hitched.

Buy the gift early. The sooner you look at the bridal registry, the more price-point options you have to choose from. Pick one that doesn't strain your wallet too much. Or, chip in for a pricey gift with other people.

If you can't afford much on the registry, consider buying a less-expensive listed item and augmenting it with a personal or sentimental gift for the couple. Another option is if you have a certain talent, offer that up. If you are artistic, consider giving them a piece of your work.

Go the gift card route. Buy discounted gift cards to places the marrying couple like.

Dress smartly. If you're in the wedding party and have to buy your outfit and shoes, think of ways to re-wear them (perhaps with tailoring) after the big day. If you're a guest, wear something you already have and spruce it up with accessories rather than buying something new.

Plan your travel. Book your airfare and accommodations early for better deals. Shop online for the best deals. When possible, use frequent-flier miles and hotel alternatives, such as crashing at a friend's home or Airbnb. Consider taking the bus or train or carpooling. If it's a destination wedding, consider making that your vacation and lengthen the trip for some "me time" without the rest of the wedding gang.

Keep expenses for a destination wedding or out-of-town travel to a minimum. Maybe the gang is going to eat the day before the ceremony or is taking a local day cruise. Set a personal "party budget" and stick to it.

Say no to the "I do." If you can't afford to attend, politely decline.

High Profile on 08/21/2016

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