Wedding Planning on a Budget

Credit: MagnetStreet

Weddings are a joyous occasion for couples, their family, and their friends to celebrate love. However, while it is a day couples will never forget, it is also an expensive venture. For couples with a tight budget, wedding planning is stressful. Consider these tips while planning for your wedding to save yourself not only money, but stress.

Enlist the help of friends and family

While many of us may be hesitant to ask for help from friends and family, those are the people who can help most when budgeting for a wedding. You may not be aware, but your friends and family could have connections that get you the resources you need at a decent price. Some of your friends might be photographers or chefs! Don’t be afraid to ask around.

Reception food and drinks

Consider providing the food, drink,and desserts on your own. Get your friends and family to help with preparation. If you don’t want to make your own food, consider hearty appetizers instead of a sit-down dinner. If your venue allows you to bring your own liquor, that will save you a great deal of money.

Music

Bands and DJs are expensive to hire. One easy alternative is to make a playlist that is several hours long, set it up to a speaker system, and let the playlist go. If you do want live music, consider hiring one from a local university, as students are always looking for a chance to make some extra money!

Wedding Decor

Decor is an expense that most people don’t consider racking up quickly, but it absolutely does. Wedding flowers can cost thousands of dollars. If you have the ability to, pick your own flowers. If not, there are fake flower options that look almost real. Reuse decor from your ceremony space in your reception place if possible. Look on websites like Craiglist for gently used wedding decor– as many brides buy decor and then need a way to get rid of them.

Wedding Attire

There are ways to save money on each and every step of one’s wedding day. Some women rent their dresses. Others go “rack shopping,” which means they buy their dress on sale. A lot of men rent their tuxedos, or opt to a cheaper option of a suit. Doing your own hair and makeup– or having your bridal party do your hair and makeup– will save you hundreds of dollars.

Favors

Wedding favors are a sweet way to show your appreciation to your friends and family for sharing the special day with you. That being said, many wedding favors are costly and get thrown away by the guest. Consider opting for a cheaper option– like candy– or just writing all your guests a thank-you note.