Planning a Wedding on a Budget

Are you planning a wedding and trying to stick to a budget? Don't worry! Many couples are just like you; they want an amazing day within their particular budget. Whether you're hoping for a small event at $10,000 or a larger event under $40,000, it is possible to have a beautiful and memorable wedding in your price range.

Planning a wedding can be an exciting experience. There are many details to consider and decisions to make; one of the most important is setting and sticking to a budget. A budget can ensure you have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank or going into debt. Here are some tips for planning a wedding budget like an expert.

1. Start planning early 

The sooner you start planning your wedding, the more time you'll have to save up for it and the more options you'll have for vendors and venues. Set a timeline for when you want specific tasks completed to stay organized and on track.

Planning early also gives you more time to research and compare prices, and you may even be able to take advantage of early bird discounts or off-season rates. Start touring venues and collecting pricing information, which will give you a leg up when deciding your budget.

2. Set your budget first

Before you start booking vendors or looking at venues, it's essential to determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on your wedding. To set a budget, start by looking at your financial situation and choosing how much money you have available for your wedding. Consider any debts or financial obligations and any savings you may have.

It can also be helpful to create a spreadsheet to track your expenses and manage your wedding budget. You may need to make tough decisions or compromises during the planning, but it's worth it in the long run to avoid financial stress and overspending. After all, you want to see where your money is going and stop wasteful spending.

3. Determine the kind of wedding you want

Do you want a formal, traditional wedding or a casual, laid-back celebration? The type of wedding you want will impact your budget in different ways. For example, a formal wedding with a sit-down dinner and an open bar will likely be more expensive than a casual outdoor wedding with a buffet and a cash bar.

If you are trying to save money, consider opting for a less formal wedding or having the ceremony and reception at the exact location.

4. Choose an off-peak wedding date

One of the easiest ways to save money on your wedding is to choose an off-peak date. Weekday weddings and weddings in the off-season (typically November through April) are usually cheaper than weekend weddings in the peak season (May through October). Saturdays are the most popular day for weddings, so venues and vendors tend to be more expensive. 

The time of day you choose to marry can make all the difference. A brunch-time wedding will allow you to include fun additions like a waffle bar, and an early-afternoon celebration gives you and your beloved time to relax after the festivities at a day spa or by the pool.

5. Ask for wedding help instead of a wedding gift

Instead of traditional wedding gifts, consider asking your friends and family to help with specific tasks or services. If you have friends or family members who are talented in a particular area (such as photography or floral design), consider asking them to contribute their services as a wedding gift instead of purchasing a traditional gift. Not only will this save you money, but it will also make your wedding feel more personal and meaningful.

If you'd prefer to have all of your friends and family at the wedding as guests, consider wedding registries with cash fund options instead of physical gifts. 

6. Go All-Inclusive

Have you explored all-inclusive wedding packages? These wedding packages will help you know your costs upfront and take the guesswork out of what else you'll need for your wedding day. From tables and chairs to event staffing and lighting, some wedding venues don't share these costs from the start, so be sure to ask about these items, even the cost of napkins.

At Wedgewood Weddings, we not only provide all-inclusive options that are suitable for a variety of budgets, but we work with our vendors regularly, so we're able to provide you with great rates on additional wedding services from trusted sources.

7. Minimize the size of your guest list

Food and drinks are often one of the most significant expenses of a wedding, so cutting down on the number of guests can make a substantial difference in your budget. Thus, inviting immediate family and close friends can help you save money without compromising the most important people in your life. 

Consider having a smaller, more intimate ceremony followed by a larger reception or party at a later date. This move allows you to celebrate with a larger group without the added cost of dress and accommodate everyone at the wedding. If you're feeling pressured to invite more guests than your budget allows, explain the price per person to your immediate family and ask for their assistance if they'd like to expand the guest list further.

8. Do DIY projects to save money

There are many aspects of a wedding that you can do yourself to save money. For example, you can create your centerpieces, invitations, and other décor items. Moreover, consider making your bouquets and boutonnieres using artificial or locally-grown flowers.

To get started with DIY projects, first, you can decide which aspects of your wedding you want to tackle yourself. Then, research ideas and tutorials online or in wedding magazines to get inspiration and guidance.

9. Make your dessert bar

Instead of hiring a professional baker to create your wedding cake and other desserts, consider making your dessert bar. You can offer a variety of sweet treats, such as cookies, brownies, and cupcakes, which can be less expensive than a traditional wedding cake. Be sure to check in with your wedding venue first to see how much flexibility they have with outside food.

Ask friends and family members to contribute their favorite recipes to the dessert bar to add variety and personal touches. Use cookie cutters to create cookies with fun shapes.

10. Say yes to the bargain dress

Wedding dresses and attire can be expensive, but many options are available at a lower price. Consider shopping at consignment stores or looking for dresses on sale.

Consider renting a dress or suit or purchasing preowned attire from a seller online. With some creativity and digging, you can find a dress that looks and feels like a million bucks without spending a small fortune. 

The success of any wedding usually hinges on creating a plan and a budget. It is also essential to be flexible and make adjustments if necessary. By following these tips, you can plan a wedding budget that allows you to have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. 

Guest Contributor: Jordan River