How to Save Money on Your Wedding: Discover These Money-Saving Strategies and Bonus Insider Tips
Planning a wedding can feel like navigating a maze of expenses and decisions. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to keep costs in check without sacrificing your vision for a beautiful day. If you're looking to save money on your wedding while still creating an unforgettable experience, here are some effective strategies to consider that I share with my real-life clients:
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Before you dive into planning, sit down and determine a realistic budget, plus a buffer just in case you have any unexpected costs arise. Consider all potential expenses such as your ceremony and reception venue, celebrant, wedding attire, florals, catering, photography and entertainment to get you started. Having a clear budget will help you make informed decisions and avoid overspending.
2. Prioritise Your Expenses
Make a list that comprises of three categories- Top Priority, Middle Priority, Low Priority and identify which aspects of your wedding are most important to you and your partner. Whether it's a lavish venue, an elaborate dress or custom suit, gourmet food, or show stopping entertainment, knowing your priorities can help you allocate your budget effectively. Spend more on what matters most to you both, and cut back, remove or adjust the less significant details.
Here’s a sample spark of inspiration for you:
Top Priority Middle Priority Low Priority
Ceremony venue Wedding planner Videographer
Reception venue On the day coordinator Content creator
Wedding attire Wedding invitations Wedding party
Hair stylist Floral centrepieces Wedding décor items
Make-up artist Wedding cake Bonbonnieres / favors
Catering Champagne tower
Celebrant
Photographer
Entertainment
3. Opt for an Off-Season Wedding
Weddings during peak season can be significantly more expensive. Consider scheduling your wedding in the off-season or on a less popular day, like a weekday, Friday or Sunday. Venues and vendors often offer discounts during these times. Peak season changes depending on your wedding location.
BONUS TIP: Consider a Wedding Between Christmas and New Year's! Why you ask? Not only is it a magical window, it’s an opportunity to have the best of both worlds:
Festive Spirit: Your guests are already in high spirits and enjoying time off work, so a weekday wedding will feel just as special as a Saturday celebration.
Vendor Availability: Many vendors have more flexible schedules during this period, increasing your chances of securing top choices for your big day.
Cost Savings: With fewer weddings taking place, you might discover your venue and suppliers are can provide lower rates, helping you stay within your budget.
Embrace this enchanting time of year for a wedding that blends joy, convenience, and savings!
4. Choose a Non-Traditional Venue
Traditional wedding venues such as ballrooms can come with a hefty price tag or high minimum spend. Think outside the box: parks, beaches, restaurants, bars or even a backyard can make for stunning and cost-effective venue. Just be sure to check if any permits or additional insurance are required.
5. DIY Wedding Decor
This is a controversial topic but handmade or borrowed decorations can add a personal touch and save you money! Enlist the help of crafty friends or family members to create some unique handcrafted treasures for your wedding or refer to the countless DIY wedding blogs and tutorials that are available to guide you through the process and give you some unique ideas.
BONUS TIP: To optimise your budget and streamline your wedding planning, consider repurposing elements from your ceremony for your reception. For instance, you can reuse your wedding ceremony décor—such as the arbor and floral arrangements—at your reception. This approach not only helps you avoid duplicating styling items but also ensures a cohesive look throughout your event.
Some of our favourite handcrafted décor wedding items include:
Wedding stationary including: save the dates, wedding invitations, name cards, seating plan, welcome sign
Bonbonnieres / favours
Centrepieces
Table numbers
Floral arrangements (handle them yourself only if you feel confident; otherwise, it’s best to leave this to the professionals)
Photobooth, photo backdrops or walls and accessories
BONUS TIP: It’s wise to arrange for extra blank name cards to accommodate any last-minute guests changes that arise.
6. Rent or Buy Pre-Loved Wedding Attire
Wedding dresses and suits can be some of the most expensive items on your list. Consider renting your attire or buying pre-loved items. We recommend finding a suit supplier that offers suit hire, saving costs for all wedding party members involved. For dresses, we love Still White. Stillwhite is the largest online global marketplace for preowned, used and second-hand wedding dresses. Alternatively, many dress and suit shops and online stores offer beautiful, gently used or sample gowns and suits at a fraction of the original price.
7. Simplify Your Catering
Catering costs can skyrocket, especially if you opt for a full sit-down dinner. Consider alternatives like a buffet, food stations, or even a feasting or shared style menu. Also, don’t overlook the potential savings of having a smaller guest list.
8. Be Smart About Your Guest List
The number of guests directly impacts your budget. While it’s tempting to invite everyone you know, a smaller, more intimate guest list can significantly reduce costs on catering, seating, and decorative costs. Focus on inviting those who truly matter to you.
BONUS TIP: It is common for last-minute cancellations to occur, which, while understandably frustrating, is a frequent occurrence in wedding planning. To manage this effectively, we recommend preparing a Plan B list of potential guests who can fill these seats on short notice. This approach ensures that you make the most of your seating arrangements and any associated costs.
9. Leverage Technology for Invitations
Traditional wedding invitations can be costly when you factor in printing and postage. Consider digital invitations, which can be both stylish and economical. This approach also allows you to easily update information such as accommodation options and other event requirements as they are confirmed. There are many online platforms that offer customisable designs to match your wedding theme.
BONUS TIP: We love theknot.com and withjoy.com that currently offer FREE wedding website design. When ordering physical save-the-dates and wedding invitations, remember that you only need to order one per household, not one per individual.
10. Negotiate with Vendors
Don't be afraid to negotiate with vendors. Many are willing to work within your budget or offer discounts, especially if you’re booking multiple services with them. It never hurts to ask for a better deal or enquire about package options.
BONUS TIP: One of my favourite things to do is to negotiate your package inclusions with your venue to help reduce your per person cost. The best things to negotiate on are food and beverage, and any external styling items being provided.
Here’s a sneak peek at some modifications you might consider for the per-person package, which each couple can customise to fit their preferences:
Substitute an alternate entrée for a set entrée
Remove dessert from the menu
Downgrade your beverage package to the standard option
Remove external styling items such as centerpieces
These adjustments can help tailor the package to your specific needs and budget.
11. Utilise Social Media and Word of Mouth
Social media is a great tool for finding deals and recommendations. Join local wedding planning groups or forums to connect with other couples who might have valuable tips or vendor suggestions in your local area. Recommendations from friends and family can also lead to cost savings.
12. Consider Alternative Entertainment
Live bands and DJs can be expensive. Look into alternative entertainment options, such as curated playlists, local talent or entertainment with a WOW factor such as a violinist or saxophonist. You might also consider a DIY photo booth with props and a backdrop for a fun, interactive experience.
BONUS TIP: Entertainment at your wedding doesn't have to be limited to just music. Consider how you can make your wedding day timeline truly unique and memorable by incorporating unexpected elements that will continuously WOW and surprise your guests.
13. Plan a Mini-Moon
If your budget doesn’t allow for a grand honeymoon right now, consider a mini-moon or a local getaway as a more affordable option. A short, nearby vacation can be just as relaxing and enjoyable, and it’s often much more affordable.
14. Track Your Spending
Keep a detailed record of all expenses and payments. Tracking your spending helps you stay on budget and makes it easier to identify areas where you might be able to cut back.
15. Stay Organised
Maintaining organisation is key to avoiding unnecessary costs and last-minute expenses. Develop a detailed checklist and timeline for all wedding-related tasks to ensure you stay on track. Adhering to deadlines and managing payments promptly will help you steer clear of rush fees and unexpected changes. If organisation isn’t your strong suit, consider enlisting the help of a wedding expert, such as a wedding planner or coordinator, to guide you through the process (like us!).
By implementing these strategies, you can create a beautiful and memorable wedding without overspending. Remember, the essence of your celebration is to cherish your special day with loved ones. With thoughtful planning and a touch of creativity, you can bring your dream wedding to life within a budget that suits you.
Have you discovered a unique money-saving hack that we haven't listed? Please share it with us so we can pass these valuable insights along to couples planning their weddings.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Wedding Planning? We’ve Got You!
Planning your dream wedding should be exciting, not stressful! If you’re feeling a little lost in the details or simply want to hand over the reins to a trusted professional, we’re here to help. Whether you need our Wedding Bestie Service for remote support throughout the planning process, or our Full Wedding Coordination service for hands-on assistance on the day itself, we’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life.
Ready to get back on track? Book a FREE 30-minute Discovery Call today to see if we’re the perfect fit for your wedding planning journey. We’ll take the stress out of your day so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Plus, Get Inspired!
Unlock the latest wedding trends and inspiration with our FREE sample of Insider Wedding Trends and start planning your dream day today!
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