Weddings are one of the most memorable and joyous occasions in life, but they can also be very expensive. According to The Knot 2022 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding is $30,000 (excluding the engagement ring). If you are planning to tie the knot soon, but don’t want to break the bank, you might be wondering how to organise a low budget wedding that still reflects your style and vision. In this post, we will share some creative ideas and cost-saving strategies that will help you plan a beautiful and affordable wedding.
Define Your Priorities And Nonnegotiables
Before you start planning your wedding, it is important to define your priorities and nonnegotiables.
What are the aspects of your wedding that matter the most to you and your partner?
What are the things that you are willing to compromise on or skip altogether?
Having a clear idea of what you want and what you can live without will help you allocate your budget wisely and avoid overspending on unnecessary items. For example, if you are passionate about photography, you might want to splurge on a professional photographer, but save on other aspects like flowers or cake. Or, if you have always dreamed of having a live band at your reception, you might want to cut down on the number of guests or the duration of the event.
Create And Stick To A Budget
Once you have defined your priorities and nonnegotiables, it is time to create and stick to a budget. A budget is a tool that will help you track your income and expenses, and keep you from overspending. To create a budget, you need to estimate how much money you have available for your wedding, and how much each element of your wedding will cost. You can use online tools like The Knot’s Wedding Budget Calculator² to help you with this process. You should also factor in some contingency funds for unexpected costs or emergencies. Once you have a budget, you need to stick to it. This means that you should monitor your spending regularly, and avoid impulse purchases or last-minute changes that might blow your budget.
Plan Ahead Of Time
Planning ahead of time is another key strategy for organising a low budget wedding. The more time you have to plan your wedding, the more options you will have to find the best deals and discounts. You will also have more time to research, compare, and negotiate with different vendors and suppliers, and to DIY some aspects of your wedding. Planning ahead of time will also help you avoid stress and rush fees, which can add up quickly. Ideally, you should start planning your wedding at least 12 months in advance, and book your major vendors and suppliers as soon as possible.
Limit The Size Of Your Guest List
One of the biggest factors that affects the cost of your wedding is the size of your guest list. The more guests you invite, the more money you will spend on food, drinks, invitations, favors, and other expenses. Therefore, limiting the size of your guest list is one of the most effective ways to organise a low budget wedding. You can do this by inviting only your closest family and friends, and avoiding inviting people out of obligation or guilt. You can also consider having an adults-only wedding, or a destination wedding, which might deter some guests from attending. Remember, your wedding is about celebrating your love and commitment with the people who matter the most to you, not about pleasing everyone.
Choose Your Date And Venue Wisely
Another factor that affects the cost of your wedding is the date and venue you choose. Some dates and venues are more popular and expensive than others, so choosing wisely can help you save a lot of money. For example, you can save money by choosing a date that is off-season, or on a weekday, rather than on a weekend or a holiday. According to Reese Rowe of Herban Feast Catering and Events, hosting a Friday wedding with a weekday rehearsal can save you thousands of dollars when it comes to venue rates. Another option is to host a Sunday wedding, which can also lower the venue fees and food and beverage minimums. When it comes to choosing a venue, you can save money by picking a venue that is close to home, or that offers an all-inclusive package that covers catering, rentals, and other services. You can also opt for a non-traditional venue, such as a park, a backyard, or a museum, that might charge less than a typical wedding venue.
Be Flexible And Creative
Finally, one of the best ways to organise a low budget wedding is to be flexible and creative. Being flexible means that you are open to different options and alternatives that might suit your budget better. For example, you can be flexible with the time of your wedding, and have a brunch or a cocktail reception instead of a full dinner. You can also be flexible with the style of your wedding, and have a casual or a themed wedding instead of a formal or a traditional one. Being creative means that you use your imagination and skills to personalise and enhance your wedding. For example, you can be creative with your wedding attire, and go to a thrift store for your dress or suit, or borrow or rent something from a friend or a family member. You can also be creative with your wedding decor, and DIY some elements, such as invitations, centerpieces, or favors, or use items that you already have at home, such as candles, books, or photos.
Conclusion
Organising a low budget wedding does not mean that you have to sacrifice your style or vision. It just means that you have to be smart, savvy, and resourceful. By following these tips and strategies, you can plan a beautiful and affordable wedding that reflects your personality and love story. Remember, the most important thing about your wedding is not how much money you spend, but how much happiness you share with your partner and your guests.