10 Things To Splurge Vs Save On Your Wedding Budget

When it comes to wedding planning, every couple has unique priorities and preferences. With years of experience in the wedding industry, we've gained valuable insights into areas where investing a little extra can make a significant impact and areas where you can save without compromising on the overall experience.

We understand that navigating wedding expenses can be challenging, so we're here to offer our expert advice. We're here to explore ten key areas of your wedding planning and break them down into two categories: areas where splurging can enhance your special day, creating lasting memories for you and your guests, and areas where you can implement smart saving strategies to keep your budget in check.

1. Photography – Splurge

The photos are the ONE thing you get to keep from your wedding (other than your partner, of course)! Therefore, it only makes sense to make sure you’ll be extremely happy with how your wedding photos look. It might be tempting to have your cousin who happens to own a nice camera shoot all your pictures for free, however, investing in a good professional photographer can make a huge impact on how you reflect back on your wedding day for the rest of your life.

2. Invitations – Save

Take a moment to reflect on the weddings you've attended in the past. Do you vividly remember the details of the invitations you received? If the answer is yes, then investing in creative and unique invitations might be worth considering. However, if you struggle to recall the specifics of those invitations, it's likely that your guests will have a similar experience.

Invites are an area where you can save money without compromising the overall quality of your wedding. Instead of splurging on expensive features like letterpress or gold foil, opt for simple yet elegant designs that effectively convey the necessary information. While intricate and fancy invitations might seem appealing, the reality is that most guests won't spend much time admiring them.

3. The Venue – Splurge

Your wedding venue serves as the backdrop for your entire celebration, and it will be featured prominently in all your photos. As one of the most significant aspects of your special day, your venue sets the tone, theme, and style for the event. You definitely won’t regret having a venue that made all your wedding photos look stunning! But avoid overpaying for a venue…you should find value in what you’re getting along with it.

4. Wedding Favors – Save

Wedding favors are a thoughtful way to show appreciation for your guests, but it's important to consider their practicality and value. While it's tempting to invest in unique or trendy favors, there's a risk that they might not align with your guests' preferences or needs, potentially leading to them being left behind or discarded.

Instead of allocating a significant portion of your budget to traditional wedding favors, consider alternative options that offer more meaningful value. You could make a donation to a charity that resonates with you as a couple. By contributing to a cause you care about, you're not only making a positive difference in the world but also sharing your values with your loved ones.

5. Chairs and Linens – Splurge

When it comes to transforming your ceremony or reception into a stunning and elegant space, there are numerous décor elements you can incorporate. However, one of the most prominent visual focal points that often gets overlooked is the seating. With dozens or even hundreds of chairs present, they have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of your wedding venue.

Investing in upgraded chairs, such as a chiavari chair or crossback chair, can instantly up the ante in the sophistication and appeal of the space. These chairs have a way of enhancing the ambiance and creating a cohesive look throughout the venue. Even amidst beautiful floral arrangements and other décor elements, the right chair selection can make a remarkable difference in the overall visual impact.

Another small but effective upgrade to consider is opting for floor-length linens for your reception tables. This simple change can significantly contribute to creating a more formal and refined atmosphere. Short linens, on the other hand, expose the table legs, which can draw unwanted attention and detract from the overall elegance of the space, especially in photographs.

6. Bridesmaid Proposals – Save

Asking your closest friends to be part of your bridal party is an exciting and memorable moment, and it's natural to want to make it special. The trend of "proposing" to bridesmaids with elaborate gifts or gestures has gained popularity, especially on social media. However, it's important to remember that your bridesmaids will likely be honored and thrilled to stand by your side on your wedding day, regardless of how you ask them.

Instead of overspending on grand bridesmaid proposals, focus on finding thoughtful and creative ways to extend the invitation. Heartfelt, handwritten notes expressing your gratitude and excitement can be just as meaningful as expensive gifts. By keeping the proposal simple and genuine, you can allocate your budget towards elements that will have a lasting impact on your wedding day, such as photography, décor, or the overall guest experience. Plus, you'll likely have the opportunity to show your appreciation for your bridesmaids with a small gift on your actual wedding day. 

7. Bar – Splurge

Providing a hosted bar at your wedding is a surefire way to keep your guests in high spirits and create an atmosphere of celebration. By covering the cost of the alcohol yourself, you'll be offering your loved ones the opportunity to enjoy complimentary drinks throughout the evening. While it is an added expense, it can really enhance the guest experience, especially if they have already invested time and money in attending your special day. Many guests may have traveled from afar, taken time off work, booked accommodations, and even purchased a gift to celebrate your love story. Offering a hosted bar is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their efforts and dedication. This generous gesture is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and will undoubtedly lead to some amazing moments on the dance floor! 

8. Signage – Save

Signage is one area where couples often find themselves unexpectedly spending more than they anticipated. From a welcome sign at the ceremony to an "unplugged ceremony" notice, bar signs, and a guestbook table sign, the costs can quickly add up. Additionally, larger signs may require easels, and the trend of draping extra greenery or florals over the top of the sign can further increase your florist bill.

While signage can be on-trend and beautiful, these decorative elements may not always be noticed or remembered by guests. If the extra little touches are important to you and align with your vision, then by all means, go for it! However, if you're not particularly crafty or are looking for permission to skip some of the additional decorative elements, consider this your green light.

9. DJ/Band – Splurge

The music and dancing at your wedding are essential elements that contribute to the overall atmosphere and create lasting memories for you and your guests. Investing in a talented DJ or live band can make all the difference in keeping the party going and ensuring that your guests have an incredible experience.

When considering your music options, it's worth noting that the DJs included in our packages also serve as MCs. Having a skilled MC is incredibly important for setting the right vibe and keeping your event running smoothly. They will make announcements, cue music, and read the energy of the room to play just the right songs that keep the atmosphere lively and engaging.

While it might be tempting to save money by having a friend DJ or relying on a playlist and a speaker, there's so much more that goes into being a successful wedding DJ. Professional DJs have the experience, equipment, and expertise to navigate the unique challenges and expectations of a wedding reception.

If you decide to hire your own DJ, be sure to ask about their experience specifically as a wedding DJ and whether they will also act as an MC. Their ability to read the crowd, select the right music, and keep the event flowing seamlessly can make a significant impact on the overall success and enjoyment of your wedding celebration.

10. The Date - Save

In today's evolving wedding landscape, couples are increasingly embracing flexibility when it comes to choosing their wedding date. While Saturday has long been considered the traditional day for weddings, there is no longer an obligation to adhere to this norm. Recognizing that a venue will look just as stunning on any day of the week can open up a world of possibilities and potential savings.

By considering alternative days of the week, you may be able to secure your venue at a more affordable price point. Many venues offer discounted rates for non-Saturday weddings, and exploring different times of the year or opting for an off-peak season can also result in significant cost savings. Venues often have lower prices during slower months, and you may find that vendors are more readily available and willing to negotiate rates during these periods. Additionally, some venues may offer short-term booking discounts for couples who are able to make decisions closer to their desired wedding date. This flexibility not only benefits your budget but also increases your chances of securing your preferred venue and vendors, as there may be less competition for those specific dates. 

Think back on the weddings you’ve been to and pinpoint which details you still remember or the details that really stood out to you while you were there. Do you remember the beautiful venue or the personalized cocktail napkin under your drink? Do you remember the signs that were displayed or how much fun you had in the photo booth? Do you remember how touching the ceremony was or what the groomsmen’s boutonnieres looked like?

While it's tempting to get caught up in the latest trends and feel pressured to include every Pinterest-worthy detail, remember that your special day is ultimately about celebrating your love story!