A wedding is certainly no cheap expense, and the price tag alone can be quite terrifying at first. Couples may choose a budget of $5000 or $200,000 and either way, the wedding will be a dream. Whether you’re saving or splurging on the day, we’ve got the hottest tips to help you manage your wedding budget!
ONLY LOVED ONES ALLOWED…
While you may feel guilty about not letting your friend’s new boyfriend of one month attend your wedding, the guest list must be cut at a certain point to avoid unnecessary bloat…and extra costs per person. Try and resist the urge to invite that 2nd cousin you’ve met twice and keep it intimate with close friends, families, and loved ones.
DO-IT-YOURSELF…
Get your hands dirty and become your own wedding planner. Hit the morning flower markets and arrange the bouquets yourself, make your own invitations, favours, or even become your own bartender and stock up on deals when they appear! Not only will you save money, but these aspects of the wedding become more personal.
Via Leanna Earle
HELPING HANDS…
There’s no harm in asking family or friends to help out. Instead of asking for wedding gifts, maybe as for their time and help instead. If you have a friend who’s a talented photographer, or a family member with musical talent, why not ask for their services at a ‘friends and family’ discount, or as your wedding gift. This way, if you choose to DIY or plan your wedding yourself, you have their help, opinions, and skills to make your wedding the best it can be!
Via Melissa Ergo
SORTING YOUR PRIORITIES…
While you may have many ideas of what a wedding should be, just as in life, you can’t always have it all. If you WANT lots of fresh flowers for your wedding, you may want to budget more for flowers, and less for food. Budgeting is always about prioritising what is most important to you on your wedding day. While it’s difficult, it’ll pay off when you have the celebration of your dreams that doesn’t end up breaking the bank.
Via Mandi Photos
SEAL THE DEAL…
We’ve all seen those TV shows about crazy cheapskates and coupon hunters, but one thing we can take from them is to stock up on necessities when the deal is there! Be on the constant lookout for vendor packages and deals that can help cut the costs of your wedding budget. If in doubt, always ask about what vendors can do or offer you. Chances are they will help if they can.
CATER TO YOUR (BUDGET) NEEDS…
If you or someone you know is a chef at heart, why not cater yourself. If you have no one able to do so, ask a local restaurant or family-run restaurant to cater for a sit-down dinner or buffet for your wedding. It will most likely turn out cheaper than a catering company, and the family will generally go out of their way to make it special, and understand your budgeting needs.
Via Laura Murray
STUDENT DISCOUNTS…
Similarly to asking for help, reach out to your local universities or colleges and see if you can hire an amateur that’s studying something you need. It’s most likely the case that you could get a student photographer for a cheap price, and they’ll love the opportunity to gain more experience.
HIRE A HUSBAND(‘S SUIT)…
If bridesmaid dresses and/or groomsmen suits are slightly out of your budget, why not look at the option of renting? There are so many companies out there that offer this type of service so you’ll be sure to find the right sizes, colours, and styles.
Via Rembrandt
HERE’S MY CARD…
Many times, if you offer to advertise business cards of vendors at your wedding, many will offer a reduced rate or discount in exchange for the advertising. This will also help your guests (and friends who may be getting married) to get some vendor information for their big day!
Via Creative Market
HONEYMOON LIKE A LOCAL…
Break it down to what matters most and what is the most enjoyable holiday for you both. Maybe a road trip around your city/state/country to see things you’ve never seen or done before. Or, just catch a flight a few hours from home! Check out our list of Australian honeymoon spots here!
Via Spell
WHAT TO EXPECT…
Just know, your wedding will be the best day of your life, whether you have roses or peonies. Even if your budget is restricting the princess wedding of your dreams, at the end of the day, it’s a celebration of your love for one another. Try not to get ahead of yourself and be realistic about what you can afford to have at your wedding.
Via Adam Levi Browne
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN…
The earlier you begin to plan and organise, the easier it is to budget and the less last-minute stress you have on the day. Planning from the get-go will also free up more time for you to shop around for good deals and discounts, as well as researching other ideas of what you may want from your wedding.
Via Blacklist Store
Looking for a wedding gown that won’t break the budget? Check out these stunning styles!
