Weddings are an incredibly special and joyous occasion, but they can also be incredibly expensive. And with sky-high inflation, weddings have become even more prohibitive for many couples. Add in the extra cost of revenge weddings, a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic where couples want to spare no expense, and wedding budgets can quickly reach the five-digit mark. However, the current economic climate shouldn’t stand in the way of your dream wedding.
Prioritize your spending
When planning a wedding on a budget, you have to prioritize your spending. Start by making a list of the most important things to you and your partner, such as the venue, the food, and the photography. Focus your budget on those areas and cut back on the less important aspects of the wedding. For example, you can hire a DJ or playlist instead of a live band. Instead of an open bar, have a limited bar or signature cocktail. This way, you can still have the most important things to you, without overspending on unnecessary extras.
Get creative with your venue
One of the biggest expenses for any wedding is the venue. To save money, consider getting creative with your venue. Instead of a traditional ballroom or banquet hall, consider hosting your wedding in a unique and unconventional location. Why not get married on a beach, in a park, or even in your own backyard? Not only will this save you money, but it will also make your wedding more memorable and personalized.
DIY where possible
If you’re crafty, you can DIY some aspects of your wedding. Instead of hiring a professional florist, consider buying flowers in bulk and arranging them yourself, which can be a fun and creative activity for you and your bridal party in the lead-up to the wedding. You could also consider skipping out on a wedding planner and planning everything yourself with the help of online guides.
Keep the guest list small
The size of your guest list will significantly impact the cost of your wedding. To keep costs down, consider keeping the guest list small and intimate. Invite only close family and friends rather than extended family and acquaintances. This can save you money on catering and venue fees, but will also create a more intimate and meaningful atmosphere.
Shop around for the best deals
Finally, when planning a wedding on a budget, shopping around for the best deals is important. This means doing your research and comparing prices for different vendors and services. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and ask for discounts, especially if booking multiple services from the same vendor. Remember, every dollar saved counts towards your overall budget.
While high inflation rates may make it more challenging to plan a dream wedding, it is still possible to have an awesome day without breaking the bank. If you just get a little creative, you can plan a beautiful and memorable wedding that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.