Weddings are a beautiful celebration of love, but they can also be very expensive. Many couples dream of their perfect wedding day, but with the average cost of a wedding in the United States reaching $33,900, it can be difficult to make those dreams a reality. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you plan a cheap wedding that is still full of all the special moments and memories you’ve always imagined.
Planning a wedding on a budget can be a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks, you can save big on your special day. From finding affordable venues and decorations to cutting costs on catering and photography, we’ve got you covered.
So if you’re ready to start planning your dream wedding without breaking the bank, keep reading for all of our secrets to saving big on your special day.
Tips for Planning a Beautiful Budget Wedding
Planning a wedding on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style or beauty. With a bit of creativity and smart planning, you can still have a memorable wedding day without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you plan a budget-friendly wedding that still looks and feels luxurious.
Prioritize Your Must-Haves: When planning a wedding on a budget, it’s essential to prioritize the most important aspects of your wedding day. Decide on the key elements that you can’t live without and allocate your budget accordingly. Whether it’s a specific venue, your dream wedding dress, or the perfect photographer, focusing on your must-haves will ensure that your day feels special and memorable.
Keep Your Guest List Small: One of the most significant factors in the cost of a wedding is the number of guests you invite. Consider keeping your guest list small and intimate. A smaller wedding allows you to spend more on the things that matter most to you, such as your venue, decor, or menu. Plus, a smaller wedding can create a more intimate and personal atmosphere for you and your guests.
Get Creative with Your Decor: Instead of spending a fortune on flowers and decor, get creative and think outside the box. Consider using items that you already own or repurposing items in new and interesting ways. You could also consider incorporating natural elements like greenery or branches to create a beautiful and budget-friendly look.
Consider a Non-Traditional Venue: The cost of a venue can be a significant expense in a wedding budget. Instead of choosing a traditional wedding venue, consider other options such as a local park, a backyard, or a community center. These options can be much more affordable and allow you to create a unique and personal atmosphere for your special day.
DIY Where You Can: Another great way to save money on your wedding is to DIY where you can. Whether it’s making your own centerpieces, creating your own invitations, or designing your own wedding favors, there are countless ways to add personal touches to your day while also saving money.
With these tips in mind, you can plan a budget-friendly wedding that still looks and feels luxurious. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other, and with a bit of creativity and smart planning, you can do it without breaking the bank.
Create a Wedding Budget and Stick to It
Know Your Total Budget: Before you start planning, determine how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding. Consider who is contributing to the cost and what aspects of the wedding are most important to you.
Break It Down: Divide your total budget into categories such as venue, catering, attire, decorations, and transportation. Assign a realistic amount to each category and stick to it.
Track Your Spending: Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to keep track of your expenses. Regularly check your progress and adjust your spending if necessary.
Be Prepared for Hidden Costs: There are often hidden costs associated with weddings, such as gratuities, taxes, and service charges. Be sure to account for these expenses in your budget.
Creating a wedding budget may seem daunting, but it’s an important step to ensuring that you don’t overspend on your special day. By breaking down your budget into categories and tracking your spending, you can make informed decisions and stick to your financial goals.
Consider a winter wedding: Opting for a winter wedding, when many venues offer discounts, can save you a considerable amount of money. Just make sure to choose a venue that is weatherproof and warm, and to arrange transportation for your guests.
Think outside the weekend: Getting married on a weekday can also save you money, as many venues charge a premium for weekend weddings. Consider getting married on a Thursday or Friday evening, or even on a Sunday afternoon, to cut down on costs.
Avoid holiday weekends: Holiday weekends are peak times for weddings, and many venues and vendors raise their prices accordingly. Avoiding holiday weekends can save you money and help you avoid scheduling conflicts with your guests.
Consider a destination wedding: Getting married in a location that is off the beaten path can be a great way to save money. Consider a destination wedding in a small town or rural area, where venues and vendors may be more affordable.
Choosing an off-season wedding date can help you save big on your special day. With some creativity and flexibility, you can plan a beautiful wedding that fits within your budget.
Unique Ideas for a Low-Cost Wedding
Planning a wedding on a tight budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on style or creativity. Here are some unique ideas to help you create a beautiful wedding day without breaking the bank:
Go Vintage: Opt for vintage or second-hand decor to add a touch of charm to your wedding while also saving money.
DIY Photo Booth: Create a DIY photo booth with props and backdrops made from recycled materials or items you already own.
Food Trucks: Instead of hiring a traditional catering service, consider hiring a few food trucks to serve up delicious and unique cuisine that your guests will love.
One of the most effective ways to cut costs on wedding venues is to host your wedding in a public park or beach. Many public parks and beaches have beautiful natural scenery and stunning landscapes, which can serve as the perfect backdrop for your special day. Permit fees for these types of venues are often much cheaper than those of traditional wedding venues.
Hosting your wedding in a public park or beach also allows for a more laid-back atmosphere and can provide opportunities for unique wedding activities such as picnics, bonfires, and outdoor games. Consider using natural elements such as driftwood or seashells to incorporate the venue’s surroundings into your wedding decor.
When choosing a public park or beach for your wedding, be sure to research and obtain any necessary permits in advance. You should also consider the time of day and weather conditions to ensure the best experience for you and your guests.
Have a Potluck-Style Reception
If you’re looking for a way to keep your wedding reception costs low, consider having a potluck-style meal. Instead of hiring a catering service, ask your guests to bring a dish to share. This not only helps you save money, but it also adds a personal touch to the reception, as each dish will have a unique story behind it.
When inviting your guests, be sure to mention that it will be a potluck-style reception and ask them to bring a dish that they are proud of. You can also consider assigning specific dishes to specific guests to ensure a good variety.
To make the potluck-style reception a success, be sure to provide serving utensils, plates, and silverware for your guests. You can also create a sign-up sheet or online form to keep track of what dishes your guests are bringing.
Go Thrift Shopping for Unique Wedding Attire
Wedding attire can be a significant expense, but it doesn’t have to be. Consider thrift shopping for unique and affordable options.
Thrift stores often have a wide selection of dresses and suits that can be tailored to fit perfectly. You can also find unique accessories like vintage jewelry or shoes that will add a special touch to your wedding day look.
Another option is to check out online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy for pre-owned or handmade wedding attire. This can be a great way to find one-of-a-kind pieces that fit your style and budget.
DIY Wedding Decorations on a Budget
If you’re looking to save money on your wedding decorations, DIY is the way to go. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also add a personal touch to your special day. Here are some ideas for DIY wedding decorations:
Paper Flowers: Paper flowers are a great way to add a pop of color to your wedding decorations. They’re easy to make and you can customize them to match your wedding colors.
Mason Jar Centerpieces: Mason jars are a versatile and inexpensive decoration that can be used in a variety of ways. Fill them with flowers, candles, or fairy lights for a romantic touch.
Photo Booth Backdrop: A photo booth is a fun addition to any wedding, and you can easily make your own backdrop using streamers, balloons, or even a simple fabric backdrop.
String Lights: String lights are an affordable way to add some ambiance to your wedding reception. Use them to create a romantic atmosphere or to add a touch of whimsy.
DIY Table Numbers: Table numbers are a necessary part of any wedding reception, but they don’t have to be expensive. Create your own using simple materials like wood slices, wine corks, or even painted rocks.
With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can create beautiful wedding decorations that won’t break the bank. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something yourself will make your special day even more memorable.
Make Your Own Centerpieces with Inexpensive Materials
If you’re looking to save money on wedding decorations, making your own centerpieces is a great option. You can use inexpensive materials like mason jars, vases, and candles to create beautiful centerpieces that won’t break the bank.
One idea is to create a rustic centerpiece by wrapping twine around a mason jar and adding wildflowers or baby’s breath. Another option is to fill a vase with affordable faux flowers from a craft store.
For a beach or nautical-themed wedding, you can use seashells, starfish, and sand to create a unique centerpiece. You can also use fruit, like lemons or oranges, to create a colorful and budget-friendly centerpiece.
Use String Lights and Candles to Create a Romantic Atmosphere
String lights and candles can add a touch of romance and warmth to your wedding decor without breaking the bank. Try draping string lights around the reception area or hanging them above the dance floor for a magical effect. You can also use candles in various sizes and shapes to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Scatter them around the tables, or create beautiful centerpieces by placing them in mason jars or lanterns.
To make your wedding even more special, consider using flameless candles. They are a safe and affordable alternative to traditional candles, and they can create the same soft and romantic glow. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and you can even find scented options to add an extra touch of ambiance.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of candles and string lights to create a unique and personalized look. Whether you’re going for a rustic, bohemian, or classic vibe, there’s a combination of lighting and candles that will perfectly complement your wedding style and budget.
Affordable Wedding Venues That Will Take Your Breath Away
When planning a wedding, one of the biggest expenses is often the venue. However, there are plenty of stunning and affordable wedding venues that can take your breath away without breaking the bank. Here are five options to consider:
State and National Parks: Many state and national parks offer beautiful outdoor settings for weddings at a fraction of the cost of traditional venues. With stunning scenery and natural beauty, parks can create a memorable and unique experience for you and your guests.
Community Centers: Community centers often have large event spaces that can be rented out for weddings at an affordable price. With their central locations and flexible spaces, they can be a great option for couples on a budget.
Historical Buildings: Many historical buildings such as museums or libraries offer rental space for weddings. Not only are they often affordable, but they can also provide a unique and charming atmosphere for your special day.
Vacation Rentals: Consider renting a vacation home or cabin for your wedding weekend. These properties often have beautiful outdoor spaces and can be rented at a fraction of the cost of traditional venues.
University Campuses: Many universities have event spaces that can be rented out for weddings. With beautiful architecture and sprawling lawns, they can provide a picturesque setting for your big day at an affordable price.
Rent a Rustic Barn or Farmhouse
If you’re looking for a unique and affordable wedding venue, consider renting a rustic barn or farmhouse. These types of venues offer a charming and intimate setting for your special day. With their exposed wood beams, vintage decor, and picturesque surroundings, barns and farmhouses can provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding.
Many rustic venues also have outdoor spaces available for ceremonies and receptions, allowing you to take advantage of the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Plus, renting a barn or farmhouse can often be more cost-effective than booking a traditional event space.
When choosing a rustic venue, be sure to ask about any restrictions or requirements for decorations, catering, and other details. Some venues may have specific rules to follow, but with a little creativity, you can still make the space your own.
Look for Wedding Venues That Offer All-Inclusive Packages
- Convenience: Choosing a venue that offers all-inclusive packages can save you time and stress in planning your wedding. With a package deal, you won’t have to worry about coordinating with multiple vendors or managing individual contracts.
- Cost-Effective: All-inclusive packages can also be cost-effective as they often offer discounts or bundled pricing compared to booking each service separately. Additionally, you may be able to save on transportation costs as everything will be in one location.
- Customization: Many venues that offer all-inclusive packages also allow for customization options, so you can still create a wedding that reflects your style and preferences. Be sure to ask about any additional fees for customization.
- Expertise: When you book an all-inclusive package, you’ll be working with a team of experts who have experience in planning weddings at that venue. They can provide guidance and suggestions to help make your day special and stress-free.
Be sure to do your research and compare all-inclusive packages from different venues to find one that fits your needs and budget. Keep in mind that some venues may have strict rules or limitations on what can be included in the package, so be sure to ask plenty of questions before making your decision.
How to Cut Costs on Wedding Photography and Videography
Wedding photography and videography can be one of the most expensive parts of your big day. However, with a little creativity and flexibility, you can cut costs without sacrificing quality. Here are some tips:
Negotiate the price: Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer or videographer if they can offer you a better price. Many professionals are willing to negotiate if it means securing your business.
Choose a package wisely: Look for a package that offers only the essentials you need. Skip the extras that you don’t really need, such as prints or albums.
Opt for digital: Instead of paying for prints, ask for digital copies of your photos and videos. You can print them yourself or share them online with family and friends.
Consider hiring a student: Many photography and film schools have talented students who are looking for work experience. You can save money by hiring them and still get high-quality photos and videos.
Ask for referrals: Reach out to your friends and family for recommendations on photographers and videographers. You may be able to find someone who is just starting out and willing to offer a discounted rate in exchange for building their portfolio.
Hire a Student Photographer or Videographer
If you’re looking to cut costs on wedding photography or videography, hiring a student photographer or videographer can be a great option. Students are often looking to build their portfolios and gain experience, so they may offer lower rates than more experienced professionals.
When hiring a student, it’s important to ask to see their portfolio and to make sure they have experience shooting weddings. You may also want to ask for references from other clients they have worked with.
Another option is to reach out to local colleges or universities with photography or videography programs and ask if they have any students who are looking for wedding gigs. This can be a great way to find talented and affordable photographers and videographers.
Only Pay for the Services You Need
Wedding photography and videography packages often include a lot of extras that you may not need. Do you really want an album, prints, or a video montage? Consider just paying for the basic services and creating your own prints and albums.
Many photographers and videographers will let you customize your package, so be upfront about what you do and don’t want. You can always add on services later if you change your mind.
Another way to save money is to hire a photographer for just a few hours instead of the entire day. This is a great option if you only need photos of the ceremony and a few posed shots.
If you have a friend or family member who is handy with a camera, consider asking them to take photos or videos for you. Just be sure to discuss your expectations and provide them with a shot list.
Remember, the most important thing is to capture the memories of your special day. You don’t need to break the bank to do that.
Opt for Digital Files Instead of Prints or Albums
If you’re looking to cut costs on your wedding photography and videography, consider opting for digital files instead of prints or albums. Not only are digital files less expensive, but they also offer more flexibility and convenience. With digital files, you can easily share and store your photos and videos online, and you can print only the ones you want.
When selecting a photographer or videographer, be sure to ask about their digital file options. Some may offer a package that includes both digital files and prints or albums, while others may charge separately for each. Make sure you understand what you’re getting and how much it will cost before making a decision.
Another advantage of digital files is the ability to edit and retouch your photos and videos. With editing software, you can adjust the brightness, color, and contrast of your images, as well as remove any blemishes or imperfections. This can save you money on professional retouching services.
Delicious and Budget-Friendly Wedding Menu Ideas
Planning a wedding can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on the quality of the food. By being creative with your menu, you can have delicious and affordable dishes that will impress your guests. Consider dishes that use seasonal ingredients, as they tend to be more cost-effective and flavorful.
One way to cut costs is to offer a buffet-style meal instead of a plated dinner. This allows guests to choose what they want to eat and can help reduce the amount of food waste. You can also opt for a vegetarian or vegan menu, which tends to be less expensive than a meat-based menu.
Another option is to serve brunch or lunch instead of dinner. Brunch foods like waffles, pancakes, and quiches are not only delicious but also budget-friendly. You can also offer a variety of sandwiches or salads for lunch, which can be a lighter and more casual option for a wedding.
Serve a Buffet-Style Meal Instead of Plated Dinners
Budget-friendly: Opting for a buffet-style meal can save you money compared to a plated dinner because it requires fewer servers and less food waste. Guests can serve themselves, eliminating the need for servers to bring out each dish.
Flexible: Buffet-style meals offer a wide range of food options to accommodate guests with different dietary preferences or restrictions. Plus, guests can go back for seconds if they desire, making it more likely that everyone will leave the reception satisfied.
Interactive: Buffet-style meals provide an interactive dining experience for guests, as they can chat with each other while serving themselves. This can help break the ice between guests who may not know each other well.
Choose In-Season and Local Ingredients
If you’re looking to save money on your wedding menu, one easy way is to choose in-season and local ingredients. Not only is this budget-friendly, but it also ensures that your food is fresh and delicious. Talk to your caterer about what’s in season and available locally, and work with them to create a menu that highlights these ingredients.
Choosing in-season and local ingredients can also have environmental benefits, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. Additionally, it supports local farmers and businesses, which can be a meaningful way to give back to your community.
Some in-season ingredients to consider for your wedding menu include spring vegetables like asparagus and peas, summer fruits like berries and peaches, and fall produce like squash and apples. Talk to your caterer about how to incorporate these ingredients into your menu, whether through salads, sides, or entrees.
Offer a Fun Dessert Bar with Mini Treats
When it comes to wedding desserts, you don’t have to go for an expensive and elaborate cake. A fun and budget-friendly option is to offer a dessert bar with mini treats that your guests can enjoy. This can include a variety of bite-sized sweets such as cupcakes, macarons, cookies, brownie bites, and mini pies. Not only is this option cost-effective, but it also allows for more variety and can be a fun activity for guests to mix and match different treats.
To make it even more unique, consider incorporating a theme or personal touch. For example, if you and your partner are big fans of a particular type of dessert, such as donuts, you can create a donut wall or tower as a focal point of the dessert bar. You can also add personalized touches such as custom labels or packaging for the desserts that match your wedding theme or colors.
Another way to save money is to consider making some of the desserts yourself or enlisting the help of family and friends who are skilled bakers. This can not only save you money but also add a personal touch to your dessert bar. Just be sure to plan ahead and factor in any necessary equipment or ingredients, and be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies among your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors determine if a wedding is considered cheap?
The cost of a wedding can vary greatly depending on many factors such as location, guest count, vendors, and overall style. Some couples may consider a wedding to be cheap if they spend less than $10,000, while others may have a budget of $50,000 and still consider their wedding to be affordable. Ultimately, the definition of a cheap wedding will vary from person to person.
Is it possible to have a cheap wedding without sacrificing quality?
A cheap wedding doesn’t necessarily mean a low-quality wedding. There are many ways to save money without sacrificing quality, such as opting for a non-traditional venue, DIY decor, and choosing affordable but still delicious food and drinks. It’s important to prioritize the things that are most important to you and find ways to cut costs in other areas.
How can couples save money on wedding attire?
Wedding attire can be a significant expense, but there are ways to save money. Brides can consider buying a pre-owned or sample dress, while grooms can opt for renting a suit or tuxedo. Couples can also consider asking their bridal party to purchase their own attire or allowing them to wear something they already own in a specific color or style.
What are some cost-effective wedding venue options?
Traditional wedding venues such as hotels and banquet halls can be expensive, but there are many cost-effective options available. Couples can consider having their wedding at a park, backyard, or community center. Destination weddings can also be a budget-friendly option as they often offer all-inclusive packages and can double as a honeymoon.
How can couples save money on wedding invitations and stationery?
Wedding invitations and stationery can quickly add up in cost, but there are ways to save money. Couples can consider opting for digital invitations or designing and printing their own stationery. They can also skip save-the-dates or send them digitally. Another option is to have a postcard RSVP, which can save on postage and printing costs.