Want to learn how to save thousands on your wedding? Planning a wedding can be overwhelming even for the Type-A hyper-organized individuals. How do we plan our dream wedding, but stay within our budget? Let’s get into the top 5 things you can do to save on your wedding budget!
#1 Tip- Make a Budget Breakdown
The number one mistake couples make when it comes to planning, is not setting up proper expectations for their budget. Not having a budget in mind, makes it really easy to over-spend in certain areas.
Let’s have a simple example:
If you know ahead of time that your budget is: $15 000.
Breakdown all the categories for your budget, and rank them how important they are to you. Then attribute a percentage of your budget you’re willing to spend on this category.
- 30% on venue
- 25% on photography/videography
- 20% on food
- 10% on entertainment
- 15% on everything else
You’ll know that you can limit your spending on the venue at $4500 (or 30% of your total budget).
If you don’t make these considerations ahead of time, you’ll find yourself running out of budget quickly. Unexpected expenses can pop up, and things you didn’t even realize should have been factored in start adding up to your total wedding budget. Finding a great wedding planner template can save you all the hassle of doing the math, and trying to remember all the expenses you might have. Luckily we have one for you to use!
#2 Tip- It’s Time to Go Digital
The days of paper invitations are starting to fade. Why? Paper invitations are pretty costly when you consider printing and postage costs. Building a wedding website is both unique- and budget friendly. You can set up RSVPs, integrate your wedding registry, have a beautiful space to showcase your engagement photos, and provide updates to your guests. Better yet- your guests won’t lose the paper copies of these invites, and you can keep all your guest lists organized in one place.
Check out these sites for building your own wedding website:
- https://www.theknot.com/gs/wedding-websites/designs
- We love a free and easy-to-use option!
- https://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-websites.html
- Free, and also integrates other wedding planning tools!
- https://www.appycouple.com/
- Want a bit more of a luxurious look? This option starts at $49 for beautiful templates.
Did you know that on average, couples spend $450 on paper goods for their wedding? Starting off with save-the-dates (average $150), then mailing invitations and RSVPs (additional $300). We say- save that money to spend on your honeymoon!
#3 Tip- Floral Alternatives
Most couples spend between $700-2500 on wedding florals. There are some great alternatives to cut down this cost, and still have beautiful wedding decor.
Balloon decor has gained popularity in recent years. You can find a large variety on websites like etsy, ali-express, and even amazon.
These can be used for entry ways, behind your guest seating, and even down the aisle.
Faux flowers are an excellent way to cut your cost in half.
Ask your florist about the option to include faux and real florals in the mix.
DIY flower bouquets: ask your florist about the option of making your own bouquet. Many florists offer the option to provide you fresh stems and greens for you to arrange your own bouquet for a fraction of the cost.
#4 Tip- Consider a Non-Saturday Date!
The overwhelming majority of weddings take place on Saturdays. Did you know that most vendors (including venues, photographers, beauty salons) will offer you a lower price if you’re choosing an alternative day? Friday and Sunday weddings have lower food and beverage fees, lower rental fees, and lower venue and rehearsal fees.
If you’re late to planning, or want to get married quickly – choosing a non-Saturday date will also ensure greater vendor availability.
An estimated 20% savings off the cost of a Saturday night-wedding when choosing Friday, states the New York Times.
Even further savings can be made on venues when booking in off-season (typically late November through till March).
#5 Tip- All Inclusive Packages!
Venue + Food
A venue offering all inclusive options will typically offer much larger savings (and also save you a lot of time in trying to find these services).
Look for venues that offer included:
- Tables, chairs, linens
- Complimentary backdrops
- Floral centre pieces, and bouquets
- Guest book table
- Music, speakers, microphone
- Open bar service
- Dinner service + wait staff
- Venue coordinator
- Officiant
Attire + Beauty
Look for dress shops that offer wedding dresses and bridal party dresses. Sometimes there are deals included when purchasing all together- and you’ll save time on travel and searching for other locations
Photography + Videography
When booking photography and videography services together, you can save thousands of dollars. You will also get a team that already knows how to work cohesively together. Ensuring that they don’t get in each other’s way on your wedding day.
You can find our wedding packages here:
Which of these wedding planning and budget saving tips will you use?
