Planning a wedding is traditionally one of the most expensive life events and can leave a big dent in couple’s bank accounts. We’ve selected six easy tips to help limit your costs and keep your wedding expenses on track.
Limit your Guest List
It might be tempting to invite extended family or friends of friends but think about who really matters the most on your big day. Limit your guest list, after all a welcome drink, favours, the price per head for catering and so on soon adds up.
Since COVID we have seen a rise in micro weddings. At one time, couples had no choice but to go small due to restrictions, but this trend is here to stay. As well as saving money, the time spent chasing RSVPs, working out seating plans or keeping track of menu choices will be reduced. With fewer people to invite, there’s less need to have a rigid schedule. The day will feel more relaxed, and you can ‘go with the flow’. Having less eyes watching you walk down the aisle or listening to the speeches will take the pressure off.
DIY the Décor
Wedding stylists can really level up your décor, but we’ve seen couples do an amazing job alone. Although it requires lots of planning, it’s possible to make any venue beautiful. A great place to start is on Pinterest, gather inspiration onto different boards. Work together with your fiancé and gather opinions from friends and family.
If your bridal party or family members have the time to help you, make the most of it! They can help you look out for decorations to incorporate into your styling and help you set everything up in your venue. Even if they can just provide a ladder or transport decorations in their car, every little helps!
For table decoration ideas, take a look at Unusual Table Decorations: Our Favourites for real examples of styling at Over Barn.
Choose Informal Catering Options
A sit-down meal is the traditional option for weddings but choosing an informal meal option can help keep expenditure down. Opting for a BBQs and woodfired pizzas finishing with a buffet dessert table is an easy way to make savings. The casual vibes will allow your guests so socialise with each other rather than sitting on one table for hours.
If you’re stuck for inspiration, take a read of our Choosing Your Wedding Menu post.
Choose an ‘Off-Peak’ Date
Discounted rates and more date availability are just two of the benefits of getting married outside of the typical wedding season. Take advantage of getting married off-peak and choose a beautiful Winter Wonderland or autumnal theme.
Another way to save money on your venue booking is to get married mid-week. If you opt for this, make sure you let your guests know well in advance to give them long enough to book it off work or find childcare. Caterers and other suppliers will likely have cheaper rates mid-week too, helping you save money all round.
Save on the Dress
Some brides feel they can’t compromise on their dream dress, however there are ways to save money and still look beautiful. Recycle a close family member’s dress. If your mother or grandmother has a perfectly good dress sitting in their wardrobe. A good dressmaker with tailor it to your body shape and can modernise the style if you wish.
Alternatively, visit a second hand or charity shop and look at their wedding dress offering. Not only will you be savings thousands in some cases, you’ll be making a kinder choice for the environment and supporting a good cause.
Hiring a Photographer or Band
There are plenty of photographers out there who are just starting up. Whether they’re a student or trying to make their hobby into a business, they’ll certainly charge much lower rates. Check out their portfolio to ensure their style suits your expectations before booking.
The same goes for live music if that’s what you’d like to do for the evening entertainment. Contact local bands with less experience for a lower rate. It’s great to support those just starting out and save cash.
These are just 6 simple tips and swaps you can make to keep within your budget and make your wedding day special.
