Once the initial excitement of an engagement subsides, the stark realization of escalating wedding expenses can potentially dampen the joy. Wedding expenditures are famously tough on the pocket, with the average estimation ranging from $26,400 to $28,400 as per CNBC. However, you don’t necessarily have to match this average; even budget-conscious couples can host an elegant and economical wedding.
When planning a budget-friendly wedding, always remember your ultimate goal. While DIY projects and minute details may seem like the key to a unique wedding, bear in mind that wedding occasions are common, and small details that demanded extensive time and money often go unnoticed. Therefore, stay practical and grounded during your wedding preparations.
Here are five tips to keep wedding costs down without compromising on aesthetics:
1. SIMPLISTIC INVITATIONS
Fancy features like calligraphy, custom stamps, or multiple-layered envelopes on your wedding invitation aren’t necessarily essential. Maintain simplicity in your invites. Given that most invites eventually end up in trash, consider economical options like bulk printing from Staples or Costco. Alternatively, use DIY invitation kits from Amazon.
To further save on costs, replace traditional stamped RSVPs with online RSVPs on your wedding website – you’ll be amazed at the significant decrease in postage expenditure.
2. RESTRICTED USE OF FLOWERS
Flowers aren’t mandatory for table decor. Look to Pinterest for attractive flowerless centerpiece ideas. From candles and sand for beach-themed weddings, to succulents for desert themes, and fruit bowls for spring weddings – the alternatives are numerous and budget-friendly.
3. LIMITING ALCOHOL
Open bars, while loved by guests, can be a drain on your budget. To cut down alcohol expenses, restrict the choice to wine and beer, or offer a signature cocktail designed specifically for your wedding – matching your wedding colors, of course!
If these options still exceed your budget, consider confirming with your venue about the possibility of procuring alcohol independently and hiring a bartender. This could considerably cut down costs. You could also limit the alcohol service to specific hours, such as during the cocktail reception.
4. FRUGAL OPTIONS FOR CAKE
Wedding cakes notoriously come with excessive price tags. Avoid mentioning to the caterer that the cake is for a wedding, which might help get a less costly deal. Consider opting for a small ceremonial cake for photographs and serving your guests from a dessert bar or a sheet cake.
5. OFF-SEASON WEDDING
Choosing a wedding day other than Saturday can significantly slash your expenses. Consider getting married on a Friday or Sunday during a bank holiday weekend or choose a non-traditional wedding season like fall or winter. Both of these can result in considerable savings, especially if you manage to book the venue well in advance.
Did you follow any of these tips to save costs on your wedding? If you’re planning your wedding, are you considering any of these money-saving strategies?
