More often than not, couples will find themselves googling ‘budget wedding ideas’ or ‘how to cut costs on your wedding.’ If this is you, then you’re in the right place! Now more than ever, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, couples are looking to slash their budgets after the financial insecurities that came along with Covid. Weddings have always been a huge expense, but especially now with all the economic uncertainty, couples are looking for creative ways to plan the wedding of their dreams within a realistic budget.
Having your dream wedding doesn’t mean having to break the bank. Affordable weddings can be super elegant and high quality, the secret is to hire a trusted wedding planner from the get-go to help provide everything within your budget. Your budget should be realistic and a figure that you know you’ll be able to stick to.
Of course, right now you’re probably thinking ‘but a wedding planner is a huge expense!’ But hear us out, they can save you loads of money thanks to all their industry connections. Not only this, but you can also look for a planner that specialises in budget-friendly weddings, who can stick to your budget whilst ensuring your wedding is exactly how you want it.
Every couple is unique, so the items to splurge or save on is different for everyone. The best way to allocate your budget is to think about what elements of your wedding matters to you most, as these are the areas you should be investing in. You shouldn’t be trying to cut costs with every small detail- remember quality is better than quantity!
So, how do you pull off the budget wedding of your dreams? Here are our top tips!
Categorise your ‘needs’ and ‘wants’
When trying to cut costs, you shouldn’t be sacrificing the elements of the wedding that means the most to you- whether it be the dinner or the ceremony. If you’ve always dreamt of having a live band, then do it! You can cut expenses in other categories that can make up for a splurge in one area. Sit down with your partner and write a list of what you want, and what you need, as this will help you plan where to allocate your budget.
Go off-peak
The majority of wedding venues have peak seasons where there is little room for negotiation when it comes to costs. Therefore, you should enquire with venues about their off-peak periods that come along with a much more budget-friendly price tag. For many venues, the off-peak season is the winter months, but this does depend on location.
Weekday weddings
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, and all the countless weddings that have been postponed, weekend wedding dates have become somewhat of a rarity. Before covid, the most popular day to get married was a Saturday, this means that all other weekdays (yes often including Fridays) are less costly. Therefore, going for a Monday-Thursday wedding date not only gives you more flexibility with your budget, but will ensure you can bag your dream venue!
Associate photographers
The majority of wedding photographer businesses are small and the owner of the company is usually the principal photographer as well. Nonetheless, many companies have something called an associate photographer, who may not always be in the advert. If you love a photographers style, but they’re out of your price-range, then you should ask if they have an associate. Associates are less experienced and therefore more affordable but they often train with the main photographer so have similar styles.
Choose flowers that are always in season
Orchids, roses, gardenias, hydrangeas, greenery… the list is endless! These are all the flowers that are in season all year long, and are therefore more cost effective. Speak to your florist about the look you’re going for and decide how this can be achieved in the most affordable way. Centrepieces are also an area you can save huge costs, so maybe swap out those elaborate floral designs with floating candles and vases.
Choose one entree
A common misconception surrounding wedding food is that buffets are the cheapest option. However, the cost of buffet foods along with the over-preparation of dishes means you’ll often be paying more. Therefore, by choosing one entree, not only will your guests have a fabulous sit-down meal but it’ll also curb the costs of the wedding dinner. Of course, you’ll still have to cater to some vegetarian meals. Another cost-friendly solution is to opt for a brunch reception as brunch foods are often much cheaper- and you’ll be saving money on alcohol.
Limit the bar
Alcohol is, surprisingly or not, one of the biggest costs of wedding planning. Therefore, instead of offering a fully-stocked bar, keep the stock to wine, beer and perhaps a signature cocktail. This way, guests can still enjoy a drink but it won’t break the bank.
Cut the guest list
A smaller guest list is one of the easiest ways to save. Especially with the pandemic, small weddings are all the rage right now, so keep it to close family and friends. This way, you’ll be able to splurge in other areas of your wedding.
Destination weddings
No matter whether it’s an elopement or big celebration, destination weddings have become a huge expense saver. The average price-tag of a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean is $10,000 (inclusive of accommodations, airfare etc.) This is evidently much less than the typical home-town celebration, plus it’s a vacation included and you can be on your honeymoon right away!
Don’t worry about all the little details
Things like fancy wedding favours or guest books are just added elements that aren’t necessary and can come with a hefty price tag. Remember that your guests are there to celebrate you and your partner, so all the extra fluff isn’t often necessary.