A Budget Wedding: Tips For A Low-Cost Celebration

Planning a wedding on a budget is possible, and you can make your wedding one of the most memorable days of your life without breaking the bank. The average wedding in the United States costs just under $34,000, but there are many ways to reduce costs. Here are some tips to help you plan a low-cost wedding:

- Keep the guest list small: A smaller guest list means lower costs for the venue, food, beverages, invitations, and more.

- Choose an affordable venue: Opt for a non-traditional venue like a restaurant, brewery, vacation house, public park, or even your own backyard.

- Negotiate and compare prices: Don't be afraid to negotiate with vendors and ask about included resources. Compare prices and packages from different vendors to find the best deal.

- DIY and thrift: Do it yourself whenever possible, from invitations to decorations. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are great places to find affordable wedding attire and decor.

- Prioritize and compromise: Decide what's truly important to you and your partner, and allocate your budget accordingly. Be willing to compromise on less important aspects.

- Enlist help: Ask family and friends for help with food, music, photography, or other aspects of the wedding.

- Timing and location: Consider an off-peak date and avoid Saturdays, as these are usually more expensive.

Opt for a small guest list

Opting for a small guest list is a great way to keep costs down for a wedding. A smaller guest list means a lower overall cost for many reasons. You can book a smaller venue, which is likely to be cheaper, and you will have fewer mouths to feed, reducing the cost of food and drink. You will also save money on stationery, as you will need fewer invitations, and there will be less demand for tables, chairs, and table settings.

There are several ways to keep your guest list small. One way is to limit plus-ones. You could decide only to allow plus-ones for guests in long-term relationships. This is a common method to keep costs and numbers down and is perfectly reasonable. Be prepared for some guests to push back on this, so it is worth sticking to your guns and kindly explaining your reasons.

Another way to keep numbers down is to only invite immediate family members. If you are from a large family, this could make a big difference to numbers. You could decide to only invite parents, siblings, and grandparents, or go one step further and only invite parents. This can be a tricky decision and may cause some upset, so it is worth being honest with friends and family about your reasons and standing your ground.

You could also decide not to invite any co-workers, old acquaintances, or friends-of-friends. This is your special day, so only invite those who you feel closest to. If you are worried about offending people, you could create a B-list. Put those you are less close with on this list, and if you have space after solidifying your main guest list, you can reconsider inviting them.

Finally, try to keep your final list private. If you share it with family and friends, it may cause issues, with people asking why they haven't been invited or who else is coming. If you do decide to show someone, be sure to set boundaries and let them know that your list is final.

Choose a non-traditional venue

Non-traditional wedding venues can be a great way to save money on your big day. They often have more availability and flexibility when it comes to scheduling, and they provide unique settings for your photos. Here are some ideas for non-traditional venues that can help you save on costs:

• Private residences: Consider hosting your wedding at your own home, or that of a family member or friend. This can significantly reduce rental costs, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to other areas such as décor, food, and entertainment.
• Backyards: A beautiful, clean, open backyard space can be transformed into a magical setting with the right décor and setup. If you don't have access to a suitable backyard, you can also look into renting a vacation home or a property through Airbnb that can accommodate your guest list.
• Barns: Authentic barns have become a popular choice for rustic-themed weddings. Some barns may even have historic houses or other unique features on the property that can enhance your wedding experience.
• Fields or meadows: With the right décor, a field or meadow can make for a stunning outdoor wedding venue. Imagine exchanging your vows in a field of flowers or lavender!
• Restaurants: Opting for a restaurant wedding can be a great way to save on costs, especially if you choose a restaurant with stellar décor. This option typically doesn't include a venue fee; you only pay for the food and drinks, which can result in significant savings.
• City halls: A city hall wedding can be a simple and affordable option, usually requiring only a small fee in addition to your marriage license. Many city halls are housed in historic buildings, providing a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony and photos.
• Libraries: Libraries, especially those with unique architecture and design, can make for unexpected and elegant wedding venues. Some libraries may have rental fees, but you can often find more affordable options by choosing a weekday or Sunday rental.
• Museums: Museums offer a unique and artistic setting for your wedding. They typically have multiple spaces available, such as sculpture gardens, outdoor terraces, banquet rooms, or on-site restaurants. Rental fees can vary depending on the museum and the space you choose.
• Beaches: A beach wedding offers a gorgeous natural backdrop for your ceremony and provides a memorable experience for you and your guests. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider asking friends or family members with beach access for help or look for a vacation rental on the beach that can accommodate your guest list.
• National parks: National parks offer special use permits for a fraction of the cost of traditional wedding venues, allowing you to tie the knot surrounded by nature's beauty. Permits typically range from $100 to $350, depending on the park.
• Courthouses: Getting married at a courthouse can be a budget-friendly option, and some courthouses feature stunning architectural designs that will elevate your wedding photos. You can often find volunteer marriage ceremony programs or low-cost options for a quick elopement.
• Hotels: While hotels can be expensive, you can find more affordable options by choosing a boutique hotel with low venue rental pricing. Some hotels also offer packages that include food and beverage menus, saving you the hassle of hiring external caterers.
• Gardens and greenhouses: Public gardens and greenhouses can be a cost-effective option for an outdoor wedding. However, keep in mind that these spaces may remain open to the public during your rental, and you may have limited setup time.
• Farms and ranches: A farm or ranch wedding provides a rustic and charming setting for your big day. These venues often offer multiple options for your ceremony and reception, including beautiful outdoor spaces and rustic barns or indoor areas.
• Historic sites: If you're looking for old-world charm, consider a historic site for your wedding. This could include castles, ancient monasteries, or other unique properties that offer a step back in time for your celebration.
• Airbnb: Renting a property through Airbnb can be a unique and budget-friendly option. Look for spaces that accommodate your guest count and are suitable for events. Some hosts may even go the extra mile to help make your day special.
• Art studios or galleries: These spaces offer built-in uniqueness, with murals and artwork providing one-of-a-kind backdrops for your wedding photos.
• Breweries: A brewery wedding is a great option for beer lovers, and you won't have to worry about running out of drinks! Many breweries have event spaces available for rent, and some may even include furniture and other amenities.
• Theatres: Theatres provide a timeless and sophisticated setting for your wedding. You can often find rental packages that include tables, chairs, and an event manager to help with your big day.
• Community centres: If you're looking for a simple and affordable option, consider your local community centre. Residents may even enjoy discounted rates, making it an even more budget-friendly choice.

Negotiate costs

The venue is the most significant expense in a wedding. Negotiating the venue cost can be tricky, but it is not impossible. Here are some tips to negotiate the cost of your dream venue:

• Understand the demand: Wedding venues are currently in high demand. Knowing this will help you assess how much wiggle room you have for negotiation.
• Understand your options: Know what is negotiable and what is not. For example, you may be able to negotiate the payment schedule, timeline, and vendor drop-off times. The menu is another area where you may have some flexibility. If the venue has its own catering, you may be able to negotiate the minimum by opting for a cocktail reception with passed appetizers instead of a sit-down dinner.
• Understand the restrictions: Ask your site coordinator to clarify any confusing terms or restrictions. This will help you understand what you can and cannot negotiate.
• Don't show all your cards: When negotiating, don't tell the venue that it is the only one you are considering. Let them know that it is your number one choice, but budget is a concern.
• Be kind and communicative: A demanding attitude will only make the venue less willing to work with you. Show the venue that you sincerely love their space, and kindly explain why you would like to make a change.
• Find a middle ground: If the venue is not willing to budge on a certain term, consider a compromise or Plan B. For example, if the hotel venue cannot secure a larger room block for your guests, ask if they can upgrade your newlywed suite.
• Work with a wedding planner: Wedding planners know the industry well and may be able to work on your behalf to come up with a solution that works for both you and the venue.

In addition to negotiating the venue cost, there are other areas where you may be able to negotiate a better deal:

• Invitations: Instead of sending physical invitations, you can send electronic invitations for free using a digital invitation site such as Joy.
• Food and drink: Negotiate with your caterer on multiple meal options. Seated, plated dinners tend to be the most expensive option. Consider alternatives such as buffets, family-style stations, or heavy hors d'oeuvres. You can also simplify your drink options by sticking to beer and wine instead of offering a full open bar.
• Wedding dress and accessories: Check out department stores for formal gowns that could double as wedding dresses. You can also consider bridal consignment shops or websites like Stillwhite and Nearly Newlywed, which offer pre-owned wedding gowns. Borrowing accessories from family and friends is another way to save money.
• Flowers and decor: Ask your florist about using in-season blooms, which can be less expensive. You can also repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception, such as using a ceremony arch to adorn your sweetheart table. Using silk flowers for large arrangements, such as a floral chandelier, can also help you save money.

Send digital invites

Professionally printed wedding invitations can cost hundreds of dollars, but there are ways to save money on this expense. One option is to send digital invites, or "e-vites", instead. Here are some tips for creating and sending low-cost digital wedding invitations:

Choose a Digital Invitation Service

There are many digital invitation services available, such as Paperless Post, Canva, Cards and Pockets, and Koala Ray. These services offer customizable templates that you can use to design your invitations. Some services also allow you to track RSVPs online.

Customize Your Invitations

Digital invitation services typically offer a range of design options, including different colours, fonts, and backgrounds. You can also add personal touches, such as engagement photos or monograms. Be mindful of the level of customisation, as some features may increase the final cost of sending your invitations.

Compare Costs

The final price of sending digital invitations will depend on the number of guests and the features you choose. Compare costs between different services to find the most cost-effective option for your needs. Some services offer free basic invitations, while others charge a flat rate or a per-coin system.

Save on Postage

One of the benefits of digital invitations is that you can send them via email or text message, eliminating the need for postage fees. This can result in significant savings, especially for larger guest lists.

Consider a Wedding Website

Some digital invitation services offer the option to create a personalised wedding website or URL. This can be a convenient way to share additional information with your guests, such as schedules, accommodation options, and registry details.

Track RSVPs

Online RSVP tracking allows you to easily manage your guest list and follow up with anyone who hasn't responded. This feature is often included with digital invitation services, providing an efficient way to organise your guest list without incurring extra costs.

By opting for digital invitations, you can significantly reduce the cost of wedding invites while still creating elegant and personalised designs. This is a great way to stay within your budget without sacrificing style and functionality.

Cut down on food and drink costs

Catering is one of the biggest expenses at a wedding, so it's a good idea to cut down on food and drink costs where you can. Here are some ideas to help you do that:

Choose an off-peak date

Opting for a less popular month, such as January or February, can help you secure a discount on your venue. Friday and Sunday weddings are also generally more affordable than Saturday weddings, and you could save even more by choosing a weekday.

Pick a non-traditional venue

A restaurant, brewery or vacation house can be a more affordable option than a traditional wedding venue. These spots may already be equipped to handle large events, and you can save on rental fees for things like tents, lighting and portable restrooms. Restaurants, for example, typically don't charge a venue fee, and you only need to pay for the food and drinks.

Negotiate unexpected costs

Unexpected expenses, such as cake-cutting and corkage fees, can quickly add up. Don't be afraid to question these costs and respectfully request to have them removed. Ask each venue what's included in the rental fee, as some will include items like tables, chairs or linens, which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Price out multiple meal options

Seated, plated dinners tend to be the most expensive catering option. Ask potential caterers about alternatives, including buffets, family-style stations or heavy hors d'oeuvres. You could also consider a vegetarian menu, which is environmentally-conscious and will reduce your food costs by eliminating meat.

Simplify your drink options

An open bar stocked with liquor, mixers, beer and wine can be very expensive. You could save money by only offering beer and wine, or by limiting the types of drinks available.

Go for a shorter cake

The more tiers on your cake, the more it will cost. Stick to two tiers and have sheet cakes to serve, or opt for a non-traditional dessert like pie, ice cream or cookies. You could also buy a store-bought cake and dress it up with a few flowers.

Keep things intimate

The guest list can have a massive impact on your overall wedding costs. There's a per-head cost for food and drinks, and these are typically the biggest expenses. Trimming your guest list by just 10 to 20 people can save you $1,000.

Combine food and favours

Instead of passing out late-night snacks, combine them with wedding favours by offering ready-to-eat edible treats like milk and cookies or freshly-popped popcorn as guests leave the reception.

Frequently asked questions