The average wedding in the now costs around $32,000, and considering the fact that the average wage is below $28,000 per annum, a wedding truly is an expensive affair. Wedding costs often put couples into debt at exactly the time they should be enjoying a fresh start, and looking forward to a happy and exciting future.
However, you don’t necessarily need to burn a hole in your pocket to get married. In fact, if you are careful enough, you can easily have a memorable wedding for just $1,000. How? Below are some tips for planning a wedding on a budget while ticking all the boxes.
1. Plan it Yourself
Instead of hiring a wedding planner, take control of the planning process yourself. Or you could delegate responsibilities amongst your friends and family. This way, you can save on the costs that you would have needed to hire a professional wedding planner.
2. Keep the Guest List Short
While you may wish to invite everyone you’ve ever met to your wedding, when you are planning a wedding on a budget, it just may not be feasible. By keeping your guest list short, and only including close friends and family, you can save a lot of money. Ideally, keep your guest list limited to no more than 40 guests. It might be tempting to add more names, but try to stick to it. It will save you a fortune in the long run.
3. The Venue
When planning a wedding on a budget, you really have to get out there and shop around to get the best deal. The venue typically costs a lot, but village halls are cost-effective venues to consider. Mint Springs Farm is a venue that you could also consider for your wedding. It is beautiful, as well as budget friendly. Rather than hiring a decorator for your family, get help from your friends and family. Simple decoration can go a long way. Scan social media for inspiration and you won’t be short of ideas.
4. Leverage the Talent of Your Guests
This is the right time to call in favors from your family and friends. If you know any cake bakers, DJs or photographers, then be honest and ask for their help. While they might not be able to do it for free, you certainly have a chance at a great discount.
5. Catering
Food and drinks are often the other aspect of the wedding that takes up the majority of people’s budgets. When you are trying to save money, opt for buffet food. Host your wedding breakfast and reception together to avoid having to cater for two meals. Or, ask friends and relatives to cater for the evening buffet.
6. Wedding Dress & Suits
Rather than purchasing a suit, rent it, and do the same for your best man as well. It is possible to purchase wedding and bridesmaid dresses for as little as $100 from high street brands now so shop around and don’t assume you need to spend hundreds on your wedding dress.
Planning your own wedding can be a seriously exciting experience, and it certainly helps where saving money is concerned. If you stick to the things that truly matter, planning a wedding on a budget isn’t too difficult, and you won’t miss out on the important things.
