While your wedding day may be one of the most important days of your life, it doesn't have to be one of the most expensive. You can have a beautiful day, while staying within your budget. There are many ways to save money while having a picture-perfect experience that captures the love you and your spouse share. Today, I'm sharing six of my best budget-friendly wedding ideas, as well as a FREE Wedding Planning Guide!
1. Shop Online
So many items needed for your wedding can be found online much cheaper than in-store. If you want the experience of shopping in person, that's fine. But if you're more interested in saving some money, hit the search button. You can find bridesmaid dresses, wedding dresses, jewelry, shoes, invitations, and more all at the click of a button. It is also easier to compare prices when shopping online. If you are ordering clothing, be sure to order in plenty of time to make sure things fit correctly in case you need to exchange the item or have it altered.
2. Consider a Free or Low-Cost Venue
I was blown away when I saw just how expensive venues can be. You should probably start searching for a venue early on. The popular places can get booked months or even years in advance. And if you aren't set on a specific place, you can compare prices. Possible free or budget-friendly options could include your home church or a friend or family member's backyard. I was very fortunate to be able to have my wedding and reception at a former pastor's church. We were also able to use their fellowship hall for the reception, and there was no charge. Even if you don't have an option that is free, you can still find a nice place to have your wedding without throwing away your budget.
3. Do-It-Yourself (DIY)
While I do enjoy crafting, I am no expert. I also had a very short engagement - less than 3 months to be exact! Yet, I was able to DIY many items for my wedding. Using some items from the wedding and craft aisles at Walmart, I created my own invitations, wedding programs, wedding favors, table decorations, and more. It really isn't that difficult. If you're not very crafty, see if you can find a friend or family member who has that talent and is willing to help free of charge or even do it for a small fee.
4. Remember: Low Cost Does Not Necessarily Equal Low Quality
Just because many people spend thousands of dollars on their wedding doesn't mean you have to do the same. I had so many compliments on my wedding, and many items came from Walmart. I used one of their kits to create and print my wedding invitations. I also purchased my veil, shoes, photo album, and guestbook there. My dress was on clearance at David's Bridal, and my husband bought a suit cheaper than he could have rented a tuxedo. I ordered Bridesmaid gifts from Amazon, and I purchased ribbon, bows, and flowers at Michael's and Dollar Tree. My wedding was super budget-friendly, but it was just as beautiful as one that could have used up my entire savings.
5. Keep it Simple
My best advice is just to keep things simple. Never forget that this is your wedding. It isn't your mom's, your sister's, your friend's, your in-law's, or anyone else's day. It is yours and your fiancés day alone. You don't have to invite every person you've ever met. You don't have to serve a huge feast at the reception or write your own vows. You don't have to give expensive favors to all of your guests. A simple wedding can still be very beautiful. Just like McDonald's, you can "have it your way".
6. Enlist Assistance
If you have family members or friends who are willing to help you, let them. I don't mean monetarily either. My mom made my bouquets, pillow for the ring bearer, flower girl basket, wedding cake, and almost all of the food for the wedding. I don't know what I would have done without her! My sister-in-law, who happens to be an excellent photographer, took the photos. My cousin's husband filmed the wedding. My former pastor officiated our wedding and let us use his current church and fellowship hall at no cost. My husband's co-worker played the piano at the ceremony, and one of my best friend's sang for us. My maid-of-honor's husband was in charge of music, and my mom's best friend was our wedding director. My mom's friends set up the food and served it at the reception. My step-sister did my makeup. My hair stylist did my hair for free as a wedding gift. It truly takes a village, and I am so grateful to every single person who went above and beyond to help make our day so special.
*BONUS*
I created a FREE printable Wedding Planner to help you plan a beautiful and budget-friendly wedding. The 20+ page guide includes budget worksheets, planning checklists, blank menus, photo ideas, and more! Click the link or image below to download your FREE copy!
If you have already passed the wedding planning stage, consider sharing it with a friend or family member who could use a hand planning their big day! Thanks so much for your support.
Comments