Planning A Dream Wedding: Strategies For A $200,000 Budget

Planning a wedding in Nigeria can be expensive, with some sources citing the cost of a big wedding to be around 8 million naira. However, it is possible to plan a wedding with a smaller budget of 200,000 naira. In this article, we will explore ways to cut down costs and plan a wedding with a limited budget. From creating a realistic budget to cutting back on expenses, we will provide tips and tricks to make your dream wedding a reality without breaking the bank. We will also look at how to allocate your funds to cover all the essentials, including food, drinks, outfits, photography, and more.

Budgeting for food, drinks, and cake

Food, drinks, and cake are essential parts of a wedding celebration, and they can also be some of the biggest expenses. Here are some tips for budgeting for these items when planning a wedding with a budget of $200,000:

Catering:

Catering is typically one of the largest expenses in a wedding budget, often contributing to around 24% of the total budget. When choosing a caterer, be sure to ask about their packages and what is included. Some caterers may include alcohol and cake in their quotes, while others may not. If you're planning on serving alcohol, it's essential to allocate a significant portion of your budget to beverages.

Drinks:

The cost of drinks can vary widely depending on the type and quantity of alcohol you plan to serve. If your venue allows, you may be able to bring your own alcohol, which can help reduce costs. Consider the number of guests you'll be serving and whether you'll be offering an open bar or a limited selection. Don't forget to include non-alcoholic options as well, such as water, soft drinks, and maybe even a signature mocktail!

Cake:

Wedding cakes can be surprisingly expensive, but they don't have to break the bank. Consider whether you want a traditional tiered cake or if you'd prefer a dessert bar or alternative sweets. If you opt for a cake, ask your venue or caterer about cake-cutting fees, as these can add to the overall cost. You may also want to include other desserts or cake alternatives in your budget, especially if you're expecting a large number of guests.

Tips for Saving:

• Prioritize your needs: Focus on what's truly important to you and your partner. Do you want a luxurious spread, or are you happy with a simpler menu? Allocating more funds to catering may mean compromising in other areas, so be sure to prioritize your needs and wants.
• DIY and outsourcing: Consider DIY options or outsourcing to friends and family. For example, if you have a talented baker in your circle, they may be able to create a beautiful cake at a fraction of the cost. Similarly, you could look into catering options where you provide the food, or even cook it yourself if your venue allows it.
• Guest list management: The number of guests can significantly impact your food and drink costs. Consider whether you can reduce the number of guests or limit the guest list to close friends and family to minimize expenses.
• Venue packages: Choose a venue that includes event rentals, tables, chairs, dishes, silverware, and glasses. Some venues may also include drinks and cake in their packages, which can help streamline your budgeting process.

Remember, it's important to be flexible and make compromises where necessary. Creating a detailed budget and setting aside a small percentage for unforeseen expenses will help ensure that you stay on track and can handle any last-minute surprises.

Wedding attire and rings

When it comes to wedding attire and rings, there are a few ways to save money. One option is to hire or cut and sew the outfits, which can cost around N24,000. Another option is to buy cheaper gold-plated wedding rings or to look for alternative sources for gold rings, such as directly from the creator. You could also consider buying from a thrift store or buying a budget-friendly wedding dress.

If you're looking to save money on attire, you could also consider wearing shoes you already own, as these won't be seen under your outfit. The groom can also have his shoes shined to make them look new.

For a wedding with 30 guests, one couple spent N40,000 on their outfits, rings, hair, and makeup. Another couple spent N34,000 on their rings, outfits, hairstyling, and makeup.

In terms of budgeting, it's important to prioritize your needs before your wants. Focus on what you absolutely need for the wedding and allocate your budget accordingly. This might include the attire, rings, and other accessories.

Additionally, it's worth considering the number of guests you invite. A smaller guest list can help minimize costs, allowing you to allocate more funds towards your attire and rings.

• Buy budget-friendly wedding attire or hire/cut and sew your outfits.
• Look for alternative sources for gold rings or opt for cheaper gold-plated rings.
• Wear shoes you already own and have them properly shined.
• Send bulk SMS or WhatsApp invitations instead of physical invitation cards.
• Have a friend or family member MC for free.
• Use a free venue, such as a family member's backyard, and rent only the necessary items like chairs and tables.
• Focus on inviting only the most important guests to reduce costs.

By following these tips and allocating your budget wisely, you can have a beautiful wedding with your desired attire and rings while staying within your budget of 200,000.

Photography and videography

Wedding Photography

The average cost of a wedding photographer is $2,900, making it the fourth most expensive vendor service for couples. However, prices can vary depending on the photographer's experience, the package you choose, the duration of coverage, and the number of photos you receive. Some photographers may also offer engagement shoots or coverage of other wedding-related events, such as the rehearsal dinner, which can add to the overall cost.

Wedding Videography

The average cost of a wedding videographer in 2023 is around $2,300, with prices ranging from $1,200 for basic packages to over $20,000 for high-end options. The final cost will depend on factors such as the duration of coverage, the number of shooters, and any additional services like drone footage or raw footage.

Tips for Saving Money

• Compare prices and packages from multiple vendors to find the best deal.
• Set a clear budget and ask for a breakdown of costs to understand what you are paying for.
• Consider hiring a photographer or videographer who is local to your wedding venue to avoid additional travel expenses.
• Be cautious of amateurs or hobbyists offering very low prices, as they may lack experience or proper equipment.

Venue and rentals

When it comes to venue and rentals, there are a few ways to save money. Firstly, consider the number of guests you will be inviting. A smaller guest list will significantly reduce your costs per head. For example, one couple spent N6,667 per guest with a total of 30 guests, while another spent N4k per guest with the same number of attendees.

You can also save money by choosing a venue that is free or low-cost. For instance, you could use a compound or a friend's space, or rent a corner of an outdoor restaurant or a small, cheap indoor venue. These low-cost venues are typically found in densely populated areas. Additionally, consider renting only the essential items, such as chairs and tables, and opt for DIY decorations or ask friends and family to help with decorating.

To further reduce costs, you can send invitations via SMS or WhatsApp instead of physical invitation cards. This will help you save on printing and postage costs.

In terms of budgeting, it is recommended to prioritize your needs over your wants. For example, you may choose to rent a wedding gown or buy a budget-friendly dress from a thrift store. You can also save on the groom's attire by buying the materials yourself and having a tailor make the outfit.

It is important to be mindful of your budget and make realistic choices. While some expenses may be unavoidable, such as food, drinks, and the venue, there are opportunities to reduce costs in other areas without sacrificing quality.

Invitations and guest list

Planning a wedding with a budget of 200,000 is a challenging task, but it can be done. The guest list and invitations are crucial aspects of this process, as they will significantly impact your budget. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations to help you plan:

Guest List Management:

Start by creating a preliminary guest list with your partner. It's essential to be realistic and selective when deciding whom to invite. Remember that each guest adds to the overall cost, so keep the list to only those who are truly important to you. Consider your budget and the overall vision for your wedding when making these decisions.

Venue and Guest Count:

The number of guests you invite will influence your choice of venue. If you're aiming for 200 guests, a large space will be required, which can be costly. Consider alternative venues that offer all-inclusive packages, including tables, chairs, and catering. These packages can help streamline your planning and budgeting.

Day and Time:

The day of the week and time of your wedding can also impact your guest list and budget. Fridays and Sundays are generally more affordable than Saturdays, and choosing a weekday can also reduce the number of guests who are able to attend, helping to keep your numbers down.

Invitations:

When it comes to invitations, you can save money by opting for electronic invitations or DIY options. If you're crafty, creating your own invitations can add a personal touch and reduce costs. Alternatively, explore online options, which can be more affordable than traditional printed invitations.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Ask friends and family to contribute their talents. For example, a friend could be your photographer, DJ, or hair stylist.
• Be mindful of additional costs for items like chairs, tables, and catering if you choose a venue that doesn't include them.
• Consider a casual theme, which can be more budget-friendly than a formal event.
• Shop around and compare prices to find the best deals.

Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love, so focus on what truly matters to you and your partner. With careful planning and creativity, you can have a wonderful wedding within your budget.

Frequently asked questions