Tips to Save Money and Spread Your Budget Further//
Your wedding can be one of the most expensive events you’ll ever plan. From the cake and catering to the dress to the suit there is so much to think about as you budget for your special day. But there are many ways to save money without sacrificing the beauty or significance of your special day. So, if you’re looking for ways to make your dollar go further while you plan, then take these tips into consideration.
1. Set A Budget and Prioritize
Start by setting a clear budget for your wedding. You need to know about how much you’ll be able to safely and comfortably afford before I start looking and fall in love with things that will kill your budget. Identify your top priorities, whether it’s the venue, photography, food, or something else. Allocate more of your budget to these key items and be willing to cut costs on less important aspects.
For example, if you really want an amazing wedding film but don’t care much about doing a cake cutting then it’ll be important to figure that into your plans when you start looking for vendors. You could splurge a bit on a good videographer, and then use whatever is left in the budget for a modest cake.
2. Book in the Off Season
Wedding venues often have higher rates during peak wedding season (typically spring and summer) and on weekends. Consider getting married during the off-peak season or on a weekday, which can result in significant cost savings.
For example, you can save money and book Kelley Farms in Auburn, WA during the off-season and during the weekdays for $2,500 to $4,500. But if you want to book during the peak season and during the weekend it’ll cost between $5,500 and $10,500!
3. Find a Budget Friendly Venue
The cost of your venue will take up a major part of your wedding budget. Instead of traditional venues like hotels or resorts, consider alternative options such as parks, community centers, or even a family member’s backyard. These venues are often more affordable and can be just as beautiful with the right decorations.
In fact, there are several beautiful locations in Pierce County WA where you can book for very cheap and still have a lovely venue. A few that come to mind are Winsome Grace Manor, Pioneer Park Pavillion, The Claw of Enumclaw, and Point Defiance Pagoda.
4. Limit Your Guest List
One of the most effective ways to save money is to reduce the number of guests. We know it’s already a tough choice to curate your guest list. But there is the added incentive that each guest adds to the cost of catering, rentals, and more. Keep your guest list to close family and friends to save on expenses. And not to mention a small intimate wedding party can make it easier to interact one on one with your guests.
5. Do It Yourself
There are so many of the details of the pre-wedding to do’s and the wedding day that you’ll be able to do yourself with a little planning and good old fashioned hard work. Get creative and make your own wedding decorations, centerpieces, and even invitations to save money!
There are many online resources and tutorials available to help you create personalized items at a fraction of the cost. You can even make it a fun night in with your fiancée. Set up a favorite show, order in something tasty, and get to work together in a fun bonding experience!
6. Choose a Buffet or Food Station
While individual plates and the personal touch of servers can be charming, it’s also very expensive! Buffet-style meals or food stations can be more cost-effective than plated dinners because they require fewer servers. This option also allows guests to choose their portions, potentially reducing food waste.
And to loop it back to a point we made earlier, you can also check for venues that have partnerships with local caterers. Sometimes they’ll have a sweet discount you can use for booking with one of their trusted vendors!
7. Borrow or Rent Decorations
It’s truly staggering once you realize how many weddings are happening each year. And with all those happy couples comes a whole lot of beautiful decor that is no longer in use. Instead of buying all your decorations, consider borrowing items from friends or family who recently got married.
You can also rent items like linens, tableware, and furniture, which is often cheaper than buying new. In fact, Facebook has whole groups, usually local, that are dedicated to buying and selling wedding decor and more! So before clicking ‘buy now’ pause first and go check out what’s available to buy of cheaper from other couples.
8. Keep Flowers In-Season
One thing to pay attention to as you plan your wedding is what time of year you’ll be walking down the aisle. Flowers that are in-season and locally grown are generally less expensive. Work with your florist to choose blooms that are beautiful and budget friendly to save money.
And if you’re worried about missing out on your favorite blossoms in your bouquet, don’t worry! You have options even during their off season. You could incorporate sola wood flowers of your favorites in the bouquet. Or you might just find a comparable looking flower by talking with your florist!
To learn more about gorgeous sola wood flowers, simply click here.
9. Don’t Let Them Eat Cake
Wedding cakes can be costly. In fact, a three-tier cake can cost anywhere from $300 to $800 dollars. So, if that looks a little rich for your budgets taste then it might be smart to think outside the cake box. Consider alternatives like a dessert bar with cupcakes, cookies, or even a small cutting cake. Many guests won’t mind the variety, and it can save you money.
So, take the opportunity to go a little non-traditional and have some fun! Cheesecake cutting anyone?
10. Limit the Drink Options
A champagne tower is visually striking and can also deal a blow to your budget. Offering a full bar with various liquor options can quickly add up. Instead, consider offering a signature cocktail or limited beer and wine selections to keep costs down.
You could even do a His and Hers style drink to make it fun! Turn it into a game for your guests to see which drink is the most popular of the night!
A Toast to Staying Money Wise//
Remember, every wedding is unique, and it’s essential to focus on what matters most to you and your partner. But don’t fret, you don’t need to skimp on every part of your wedding to save money and your budget. By being creative, flexible, and willing to compromise on some details, you can have a beautiful wedding without breaking the bank.
Comment down below how you plan on saving money on your wedding!
Or, for more ideas to make your wedding planning pain-free, come check out our other tips and tricks!
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