Planning A Wedding On A Budget: Tips And Tricks

Planning a wedding on a budget can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and mindset, it is possible to have your dream wedding without breaking the bank. From choosing a strategic wedding date to creating a budget-friendly guest list, there are many ways to save money on your big day. This blog will offer practical and creative tips to help you plan a wedding that fits your vision and your budget. Whether you're looking for ways to cut costs on catering, decor, or the venue, we've got you covered. So, get ready to say 'I do' to a budget-friendly wedding!

Choosing a wedding date

If you're not set on a particular date, you can save a lot of money by choosing a weekday or a date during the low season. Demand and prices are typically highest for weddings on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so many venues offer discounts for weddings held during the week or in the less popular winter months.

When researching venues, be sure to ask about any special offers or discounts they may have before finalising a date. You may also want to consider a smaller, more intimate wedding with a reduced guest list, as this will give you more flexibility with your date options and help you save on costs.

Ultimately, the date you choose will depend on your personal preferences and budget. If you have your heart set on a particular date, you may need to be more flexible with other aspects of your wedding, such as the venue or guest list, to stay within your budget.

Wedding venues

Another way to save money is to be flexible with your wedding date. Demand and prices are highest for Friday, Saturday and Sunday weddings, so you can find serious savings by planning a weekday wedding. Many venues will also offer discounts for weddings during the less popular winter months. When researching venues, make sure you ask about any special offers and discounts before locking in a date.

You might also want to consider a venue you hadn't previously thought of. For example, you could get married in a registry office and then have your reception in a pub or restaurant, which will likely be cheaper than a dedicated wedding venue.

Wedding expenses

Another way to save money is to cut down your guest list. A smaller, more intimate wedding will reduce costs when it comes to stationery, catering, and the venue. You could also ask guests to contribute to a 'go fund me' page instead of giving gifts, which could help cover some of the wedding expenses.

If you're flexible on the date, you can also find savings by hitting the sales. Keep an eye out for discounts on things like wedding dresses, suits, and decorations. You could also supply your own drinks, which can be a significant saving.

Finally, be mindful of hidden costs. Things like hair and makeup, transport, and decorations can all add up. Prioritise what's important to you and cut back on things that aren't as necessary.

Wedding invites

When it comes to the invites themselves, there are a few options for keeping costs low. You could opt for an online retailer that offers budget-friendly invites, such as Zazzle or Papier. These sites often have promotions and sales, so you can save even more money. You could also look for all-in-one invitations, which combine the invite, envelope, and RSVP card. While these cost a little more upfront, they eliminate the additional costs of buying envelopes and RSVP cards separately.

Another way to save money on invites is to design them yourself using an online tool. BasicInvite, for example, offers over 1000 affordable wedding invitation designs that you can customise with your own colours. This way, you can create stunning invites that don't look cheap.

Finally, don't forget to factor in any additional costs when budgeting for your invites. Even if a site isn't initially budget-friendly, they may offer different sizes or formats that can save you money per invite.

Catering

Firstly, you should understand the total costs of catering a wedding before you decide on your catering package. You'll pay for the meal package, plus the bar package per person. Depending on your caterer, you might also have to pay corkage fees, slicing fees, delivery fees, set-up fees, gratuities, and sales tax. Some caterers may also charge extra for things like linens, china, and glassware. It's important to read the small print and make sure you understand the minimums before you sign the contract.

If you're paying a rental fee or have chosen a less traditional venue, you'll be able to hire any vendor to cater your wedding. You can also save money by cutting down your guest list and hosting a smaller, more intimate wedding.

Another way to save money is to be strategic with your wedding date. Demand and prices are highest for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday weddings, so you can find serious savings by planning a weekday or low-season wedding.

Frequently asked questions