It’s what we all want – to have the wedding of our dreams within our ideal budget. As you might already know, that can be harder than it sounds! Here are ten popular ways to save some cash on your big day, as shared by budget-savvy couples who have been there, saved that.
1. Go thrifty with your theme.
Rustic, vintage and boho weddings are so popular, there’s plenty of opportunity to buy second hand from other couples or op shops. Even so, sourcing everything yourself isn’t always the cheapest option, especially if they are things you don’t want to keep after the wedding! Many stylists offer great value packages as well as hire items, which can also help you save on delivery and set up costs.
2. Request multiple quotes.
It’s less about finding the cheapest price and more about finding what you feel is the best value based on your wedding planning priorities.
3. Hit up the sales.
Take advantage of end of financial year discounts, Boxing Day bargains and other specials for retail purchases. You can also find stunning wedding dresses for a steal at designer sample sales.
4. Attend wedding expos.
Many suppliers offer exclusive deals and fantastic prizes as part of these events.
5. Consider a wedding planner.
Their ability to look at the big picture and find unique solutions to fit your budget is worth every penny.
6. Get creative with your venue.
You could look at hosting your reception at a restaurant for instant atmosphere, or hire a hall to have flexible catering options. Just don’t underestimate the value of basic inclusions like furniture, tableware, lighting and sound!
7. Trim the guest list.
This one is much easier said than done, but if you can find a way to reduce your guest numbers it’ll make a big difference to your bottom line. If that’s not possible, look at ways to reduce per head costs.
8. Keep track of the little things.
There are so many beautiful details you can include in your day, but they can blow out the budget very quickly! These added extras are best kept on the wish list until you’ve finished organising all of the essentials.
9. Double up.
Things like hosting your ceremony and reception in one location, combining your place cards and favours and serving your wedding cake as dessert can instantly save you a few hundred dollars.
10. Travel smart.
Sign up to mailing lists to keep tabs on special offers from airlines and accommodation booking websites. And don’t forget to consider the luxury hotspots on your doorstep that will still feel a world away!
Want more money-saving tips? Check out the top wedding budget mistakes.
Photography: (1) Tessa Barton | (2) The Nichols via Green Wedding Shoes | (3) Ulmer Studios via Cedarwood Weddings | (4) The Rare Negatives via Grace Loves Lace | (5) The Girl in the White Dress via One Fine Day Wedding Fair | (6) Michelle Soden via Style Me Pretty | (7) Alyson Graves Brown via Oh So Beautiful Paper | (8) Clean Plate Pictures via Ruffled | (9) Heart and Colour via Storyboard Wedding | (10) Max Wanger via Martha Stewart Weddings | (11) Petra Veikkola Photography via Ruffled | (12) DIY Honeymoon Fund Jar via Something Turquoise