If you’re dreaming about your wedding day but worried about budget, don’t worry! With Wed&Done, you can achieve your dream day without breaking the bank. By being strategic, you can trim unnecessary expenses and still enjoy a gorgeous, memorable celebration.
How to Plan a Wedding on a Tight Budget
1.Consider Other Days of the Week
Who says you need to get married on a Saturday? By choosing a Friday or Sunday wedding, you can save thousands on venue and catering costs. Venues often offer discounts for off-peak days.
2. Look to the Off Season
Booking your wedding during the off-season, such as winter, can result in lower rates on venues and services. Plus, vendors might have more flexibility.
3. Choose Your Card Stock Wisely
Opt for affordable cardstock for your invitations. Matte or recycled paper can still look elegant without breaking the bank.
4. Skip the Envelope Liner
Instead of fancy envelope liners, save $1 per invitation by using a bold outer envelope for a splash of color.
5. Direct Guests to Your Wedding Website
Save on printed inserts by sharing details via your wedding website or a QR code on your invites. It’s eco-friendly and cost-effective!
6. Get a Jump on Wedding Dress Shopping
Avoid rush fees by shopping for your wedding dress at least eight months in advance. This could save you up to $500.
7. Save During a Trunk Show
Trunk shows often offer discounts on designer dresses, saving you hundreds.
8. Snag a Sample
Sample sales can offer discounts of up to 90% on wedding gowns. Always ask boutiques if they have upcoming sales or samples to sell.
9. Have Your Ceremony Florals Do Double Duty
Repurpose ceremony florals at the reception to cut down on décor expenses. Bridesmaids’ bouquets make great centerpieces!
10. Repurpose Your Chairs, Too
Re-use ceremony chairs at the reception. Even with a moving fee, this will save you more than renting double the amount.
11. Ditch the Escort Cards
Opt for a single seating chart instead of individual escort cards. You’ll save about $3 per guest, which adds up fast.
12. Cut Transportation Costs
Host your ceremony and reception at the same venue to eliminate transportation costs. Or choose venues within walking distance.
13. Forgo Top-Shelf Liquor
Stock your bar with mid-range spirits instead of top-shelf, saving you up to $4 per drink.
14. Buy Your Own Alcohol
If your venue allows, purchase your own alcohol. Many stores offer bulk discounts and returns on unopened bottles.
15. Skip the Champagne Toast
Instead of pre-pouring Champagne for all guests, serve it only at the bar. This can save up to $10 per guest.
16. Remember Not Everyone Will Have the Late-Night Munchies
Order late-night snacks for only 70% of your guest list to avoid over-ordering.
17. Combine Food and Favors
Provide edible favors like cookies or popcorn to serve as both a treat and a late-night snack.
18. Skip Unnecessary Florals
Eliminate unnecessary floral arrangements on the welcome table or signage.
19. Consider Steak Alternatives
Instead of filet mignon, opt for flank steak or other more affordable cuts of meat to save on catering.
20. Opt for a Plated Meal Over a Buffet
Plated meals often cost less than buffets because portions are predetermined and waste is minimized.
21. Don’t Over-Order Invites
Only order one invitation per household to avoid spending double on unnecessary invites.
22. Use Standard Invitation Sizes
Stick to standard 5×7 invitations to save on postage and printing.
23. Embrace Vintage Items
Borrow or reuse vintage jewelry or family heirlooms for meaningful and cost-saving wedding day details.
24. Cut the Guest List
Reduce the guest list to significantly lower the overall cost of food, venue, and decor.
25. Nix the Cash Bar
Offer an open bar for a limited time instead of hosting a full cash bar all night.
26. Skip Save-the-Dates
Skip physical save-the-dates and send a virtual version via email or your wedding website.
27. Lean on Specialty Cocktails
Serve a couple of specialty cocktails along with beer and wine instead of stocking a full bar.