Planning your dream wedding doesn’t have to break the bank! That’s right—you can make your big day spectacular without draining your savings. Here are some smart strategies for wedding planning on a budget.
Set a Reasonable Budget
Before you start shopping for anything, create a budget for your wedding. This is something that should be discussed with your fiancé and both sets of parents. Be realistic when coming up with a figure. If you anticipate family and friends will be helping you foot the bill, account for their contributions as well. Once you have a budget, stick to it to avoid overspending.
Buy Wedding Supplies in Bulk
If you do your homework, you can often purchase large quantities of wedding supplies for less. Shop around to compare prices and look for sales on items like paper goods, decorations, and favors. Buying in bulk may also qualify you for free shipping if you shop online.
Shop Around for the Venue and Catering
The venue and catering can really add up on your tab. Shop around for the best deal to fit your needs. Consider having your wedding in the off-season or on a day other than Saturday. Many venues will offer discounts depending on the day of the week and the time of year. Additionally, you may be able to cut costs by skipping the catering and having friends and family bring the food for a potluck-style event.
Shop Online for The Dress
Purchasing a wedding dress doesn’t have to break your budget. You don’t have to sacrifice style either—you can find a stunning dress at a reasonable price by shopping online. Compare prices from different dress sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Think Out of The Box for Music and Entertainment
Live bands and professional DJs charge a lot for their services. If you’re looking to save money on music and entertainment, consider having family or friends handle the music or entertainment. Ask around—you may already have someone in your family or circle of friends who is trained in music or who can provide a unique entertainment experience. It’s sure to be a special treat that your guests will remember.
Be Flexible with the Date
Booking vendors in busy wedding seasons might not be the most budget-friendly approach. Be flexible with the date and you might be able to get vendors for lower prices or even discounts. If you’re hoping for a summer wedding, consider pushing the date back a few weeks or even months. By being flexible with the date, you can save a lot of money while still having the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.
Conclusion
With some savvy tactics, you can have your wedding and not break the budget. Setting a realistic budget, buying in bulk, shopping around for venues and catering, and being flexible with your date are all ways to help stretch your dollars further. That being said, with careful planning and dedication, you can have a wonderful wedding for a fraction of what you’d expect.