Let’s face it – a wedding is very likely to be the most expensive party you’ve ever hosted. The average costs in 2019 in the U.S., including engagement rings, ceremony and reception, was estimated for over $33.000 by the wedinsights.com.
But we’re not here to quench your enthusiasm. After all, it’s your wedding day, and one of the most precious moments in your life. There should be no pressure to get into debt and throw a massive party. A limited budget surely won’t make your special day any less perfect.
Nevertheless, before you get carried away, it’s good to establish specific rules that can be very beneficial when organizing a wedding. There is not a general one-size cost that fits everyone, leaning on helpful guidelines can help you avoid a budget disaster and pull off an unforgettable event. Here are some tips on how to plan an exclusive wedding without spending a fortune.
Set a wedding budget
Before getting into wedding details, the first thing is to set a budget you’re ready to spend for the event. Usually, it comes from three primary sources – you and your fiance’s savings, the amount of money you can set aside from your current salary, and your parents’ contribution – well, don’t expect them to chip in. Still, it’s not a bad idea to ask for financial support. It’s usually customary for the parents to help out with the wedding in some form or another, although some couples choose to do it alone. Once the budget is prepared, you can keep on moving with planning your dream day.
Prioritize things
Step 2 in wedding budget planning is dividing the costs for matters of greater and lesser importance. Sometimes it can be hard to estimate the real costs and some unreliable suppliers don’t make it easier by inflating prices once they know you’re going to spend lots of money. A solution can be pricing comparing websites, which provide long lists with affordable products and honest reviews, for instance, https://bestbudget.com/, or The Knot.
Stay flexible with the dates
A right way of limiting prices is being flexible about the dates. It is not a surprise that summertime weekend weddings cost the most. Why not choose a day of the week or a different season? The off-peak wedding party can let you save thousands of dollars.
If you prefer the ceremony to be held during the weekend, do some research and look for places outside the city. Less popular spots usually ask for less money.
Hold the ceremony outdoors
Who said you should stick to the old-fashioned wedding framework and book a manor house or other expensive building? Instead, consider hosting the event in your place. If you have enough space, it’s a great idea to organize a reception outdoors.
There are many creative ideas and inspirations for outdoor wedding decorations. The green area of your garden combined with rustic hanging lights and flowers, can make an outstanding, romantic atmosphere with a very affordable price.
However, if you live in a place with unpredictable weather, you should also make a plan B, such as the ability to move everyone inside or set up a huge party tent in the back of your garden.
Opt for homemade food
Another way to limit the costs is by preparing homemade food or ordering an affordable catering service. Instead of choosing long lists of sophisticated meals, you can create delicious, elegant food yourself. Ask your family or friends for help and make it a potluck.
If not, look for a local catering service. They are usually very flexible with the menu and ask for much less money than typical restaurants.
Don’t be scared to ask for help
Organizing a wedding is not a piece of cake. Family and friends know about it and surely are willing to help you. Moreover, they will be very excited to do so!
We all have connections somewhere that can be used for your wedding day. Maybe some of your family members know someone at one of the local flower stores who can give you a discount? Or perhaps your friends own a business that can lower some of your costs? It doesn’t hurt to check.
If you know someone who makes DIY decorations or has a music band, or an angelic voice that can move people to tears while you walk to the altar – ask them for help! They will be honored to take part in such a lovely day of your life.
The bottom line
Planning a wedding with a low budget can be easier than you think, and should in no way take away from exclusivity and sophistication.
Besides, don’t forget what matters here. A wedding is a beautiful celebration of love between two people. Don’t let the party fever overshadow the purpose of getting married. At the end of the day, it’s just a one-night event, and your feelings can last over the lifetime!
