So, you’ve recently gotten engaged (congrats!) and now begins the exciting yet intimidating task of wedding planning.
One of the first tasks many couples must complete when it comes to planning a wedding is deciding on a budget.
And if you’re like most couples, you’re not made of money–and you may not be expecting much in the way of family contributions.
Fortunately, even if you’re working with the smallest of budgets, there are some steps you can take to avoid overspending while still enjoying a beautiful wedding.
Have the Ceremony and Reception in the Same Space
Many traditional wedding ceremonies take place in one location with a cocktail hour and reception following at a different venue.
However, by having both your ceremony and reception in the same location, you can reduce the costs associated with renting out two different venues.
This includes not only the cost of the rental space, but chair rental, set-up/tear down, and even staffing.
Not to mention, your guests will likely appreciate being able to stay in one location for the duration of your big day–especially your out-of-town guests who may be unfamiliar with the area.
Ask About Pre-Paying a Bar Tab For Your Guests
Offering an open bar for your guests to enjoy themselves is always a nice gesture, but for some, it’s simply not in the budget.
After all, an open bar can easily cost upwards of $20 per person for just a few hours.
If you want to offer your guests some free drinks but can’t quite spring for a full open bar, ask your venue if they’ll let you pre-pay a bar tab.
This way, you can pay an amount that’s within your budget and your guests can still enjoy some free drinks.
Once your bar tab has exceeded your budget, your venue can switch it over to a cash bar.
Forego the Expensive Floral Arrangements
Pretty floral arrangements and intricate centerpieces can be nice, but they’re also very pricey and can be quite the hassle.
These days, a more affordable (and practical) option for many planning a wedding is that of choosing silk or paper flower arrangements as opposed to real ones.
Not only are they a lot less fragile, but they can also make for beautiful keepsakes long after the wedding is over.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about them wilting on your big day.
Create Rules Before Deciding on Your Guest List
Per-person costs can really add up with any wedding, so decide on an ideal number of guests to suit your budget and then create rules to help you decide on your guest list.
For example, you might choose to invite all immediate relatives, but you won’t invite distant relatives who you haven’t seen in the past five years.
Skip the Cocktail Hour (And Associated Costs) Altogether
These days, it’s pretty common to hold a cocktail hour immediately after the wedding ceremony.
During this time, the bride/groom and bridal party go off with their photographer and have some pictures done while the rest of the wedding guests enjoy some appetizers and drinks.
Rather than having a cocktail hour, however, consider saving money by going straight into the wedding reception; your photographer can get plenty of great photos before the ceremony or even during the reception. You’ll save money by not having to feed your guests again, and your guests will appreciate not having to wait that awkward hour between ceremony and reception. It’s a win-win for everybody!
These are just a few tips for cutting back on wedding costs without having to make major sacrifices in the process. Be sure to give these a try as you embark on the journey of planning your own wedding.