Most people have specific dreams and ideas for their wedding. Perhaps you want the big white wedding, or maybe you want something simple on the beach. No matter your style, wedding costs can add up fast. It’s a good idea to save where you can.
Wedding planning on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your dreams. A wedding on a budget can be glamorously simple and elegant, and there’s no reason you can’t have the wedding of your dreams even when you’re trying to stick to a budget. Here are 10 ways you can save money while still having a ceremony you will cherish for years to come.
Luckily for you, micro weddings are what weddings are all about these days. And if we’re being honest, we’re pretty sure that’s how it’s going to be for the foreseeable future. Costs increase with every guest, and there are plenty of stories of couples not even knowing all of their attendees. If that sounds like a very real possibility for you, consider trimming down the guest list. You can always livestream your wedding for those who are unable to attend.
It can be easy to fall into the societal pressure to go into debt just for your rings, but that really isn’t necessary. There are plenty of affordable wedding bands that offer the same stunning appearance and quality. If you find a design you love but the price is a bit high, save some money by swapping natural diamonds for moissanite. You get the natural diamond look at a fraction of the cost.
There’s no doubt that the venue is important, but it can also be extremely expensive. Skip renting a venue and have your wedding ceremony outside. A family home will add a close intimate feel to your ceremony. Another big pro for a backyard wedding is your flower girl will probably be much more comfortable being decked out and the center of attention at a family home.
You can also opt for other outdoor locations like the top of a mountain or on the beach. If it’s public property, then chances are high the location itself would be free. Just keep in mind how quickly travel costs add up if you don’t live nearby.
Avoid buying insanely priced jewelry for your wedding. And even worse, avoid renting insanely priced jewelry. You’ll only have to return it at the end of the day. Keep your glitz and glamour stress-free by wearing wedding accessories.
Affordable wedding accessories that are high quality will make you look just as stunning — but for much less! Save as much money as you can while still looking beautiful and glamorous, from your accessories to your shoes.
Skip hiring an event planner and DIY your decor. It’s not going to be as hard as you think! Start with a variety of decorations, gather your besties, and get creative. Tie burlap around vases or fill them with something fun, make your own centerpieces, hang lights from the ceiling, and just have fun.
If you’re not sure where to start, search online for inspiration. You may also want to practice arranging your decor before the wedding. You’ll want to feel comfortable and confident with your decor skills before your special day.
Have you ever had to check one of those little boxes on an RSVP card indicating whether you want chicken, steak, or a vegetarian meal? There’s no rule that says you have to offer a whole meal at your reception. Cake, a candy bar, a buffet full of mini sandwiches and veggie trays — these are all acceptable options anyone can prepare.
If your heart is set on a certain venue, that’s okay. Many venues will give you a lower price if you get married in the middle of the week instead of Saturday. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to make sure you get RSVPs because you’ll likely have guests who can’t attend during the week.
Going the DIY route with your wedding invitation can save you a lot of money. Keep your wedding invitations simple but classy. Avoid letterpress, or only use it minimally. And definitely, avoid expensive paper stocks. Give your DIY invitations an extra flair at a low cost by choosing a thin glossy paper.
You can also save money by skipping envelope liners. To fill in that “something is missing” gap, make your invitations unique and colorful. With a cute design, no one will notice that you don’t have an envelope liner.
Seasoned photographers are often booked far in advance and charge high fees because they’re already established and can afford to do so. Instead, consider browsing local aspiring photographers. You can still find someone with a style you love but since they’re new and building their portfolio, they’re not likely to charge the same fees as a seasoned photographer. Give the up-and-coming photographers a chance and we promise you’ll be impressed.
Print fewer menus and programs. Keep the same practice for wedding invitations when it comes to menus and programs. One print per family. You could even create a digital program and provide a QR code guests can scan for easy viewing.
Whether your budget is $500 or $2000, your day will be beautiful and special. Remember, your wedding day lasts less than 24 hours and you’ll be married at the end of the day. DIY as much as you can, and don’t stress about what you can’t. The important thing is celebrating your love!
