As you prepare for the most romantic day of your life, it’s essential to strike a balance between making cherished memories and being mindful of the expenses that come with planning a wedding. While it’s natural to get swept up in the excitement of preparing for the big day, it’s crucial to keep a level head and prioritize your spending. Rather than trying to cut costs across the board, consider what aspects of your wedding truly matter most to you and your partner. Are you passionate about food?
Then invest in exceptional catering that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Do you and your partner love music? Make sure to secure a talented band or DJ that will keep the party going all night long. Alternatively, if you’re both fashion-conscious, splurge on a stunning dress and décor that reflects your personal style.
By focusing on what truly matters to you, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions about where to allocate your budget and where to cut costs without sacrificing the essence of your special day. With this approach, you can create a wedding that is both beautiful and budget-friendly.
The Biggie: How To Save On Your Wedding Venue
Off-Peak Bargains – Choose Your Wedding Date Wisely
While some wedding venues may promote specific packages or discounts for mid-week ceremonies, such as Tuesdays to Thursdays, or during the off-season, like November to February, it’s essential to inquire about these deals directly with each potential venue. By asking about various options, couples can potentially secure a more affordable and memorable experience.
Pick A Venue That Reflects Your Style
When planning your special day, it’s essential to consider the venue’s décor from the get-go. Not only will it save you money in the long run, but it’ll also ensure that your wedding reflects your unique style and preferences. By choosing a location with an aesthetic that resonates with you, you’ll have fewer decisions to make down the line when it comes to decorating – a major plus for those looking to keep costs low.
Restaurants, in particular, can be a fantastic option, offering a chic and understated atmosphere that’s often already dressed to impress.
Cut the Guest List
While it may not be the most exciting topic, a crucial step in saving money for your special day is considering a smaller guest list. The reception, which includes venue, food, and drink costs, typically accounts for around 50% of your overall budget. By trimming down the number of guests, you can make significant cuts to these expenses. If you’re worried about leaving someone out, consider hosting a separate gathering or after-party where friends and family can still celebrate with you.
The good news is that societal attitudes have evolved, and many people are now more understanding of smaller guest lists than they were in the past.
Tips for Saving on Wedding Stationery
Printables: The Easy Way to Gorgeous Invitations
When it comes to affordable and effortless wedding decor and stationery, printable designs are a treasure trove of creative possibilities. While it’s essential to entrust professional expertise for your invitation suite, there are plenty of free or budget-friendly options available online for lower-priority items like Save the Dates, ceremony booklets, menus, table plans, table numbers, signage, and ‘be my bridesmaid’ cards.
These DIY stationery solutions can add a personal touch to your special day without breaking the bank.
Scribe Your Own
For artists or those who appreciate a touch of whimsy, creating self-scribed stationery can be a delightful and personalized way to go about things. While it does require some time and effort, the end result can be truly charming and unique. We suggest reserving this approach for low-priority stationery items, such as wedding signage, where the consequences of not meeting deadlines are relatively minimal.
Email The Invitations
When it comes to saving money on wedding stationery, it’s no surprise that this topic can spark debate – especially among parents and older guests. However, if you’re working with a limited budget, it’s essential to identify ways to shave off some of the costs. One area where you can make a significant impact is by reducing printing and postage expenses. A simple yet effective way to achieve this is by opting for printable designs available online.
Many of our favourite wedding stationers offer bespoke digital stationery design services that can help you create a custom look without breaking the bank. Additionally, setting up a dedicated email account specifically for sending out your invitations and other stationery items will not only streamline the process but also save you a few hundred euros in the long run.
Ditch the RSVP Cards
Including RSVP cards and stamped envelopes with your wedding invitations can add unnecessary expenses to your big day. A more cost-effective approach would be to simply include a phone number and email address, allowing guests to easily respond without the need for paper-based RSVPs.
Don’t Go (Too) Crazy on Décor
Pick & Choose Your DIY Projects Wisely
Don’t let the overwhelm of DIY wedding details dissuade you from getting creative. Instead, pinpoint one area where your personal touch can truly shine. This could be anything from crafting customized favors to designing ceremony programs or creating unique escort cards. The key is to focus on doing that one thing exceptionally well. By taking this approach, you’ll not only save money and reduce stress but also avoid the frustration of trying to tackle too much at once.
So, go ahead and pick your battles – your wedding will thank you!
Don’t Get Carried Away With The Little Extras
When deciding on the essentials for your event, it’s crucial to focus on what truly adds value to the experience. While elaborate touches like sweet tables, dessert bars, photo booths, and individual place cards can be impressive, they might not necessarily resonate with your guests. Take a step back and ask yourself: are these elements truly making an impact or are they just nice-to-haves? By prioritizing what’s truly important, you’ll create a more meaningful experience for everyone involved.
Dump the Wedding Favours (if you’re not into them!)
When it comes to wedding favors, many couples are surprised to learn that they’re not a top priority anymore. In fact, even handmade favors can cost a pretty penny – €2 per guest is the bare minimum for 100 attendees, which adds up to a significant expense. Not to mention, often these favors get left behind or forgotten altogether. For those who put in the effort to create something special by hand, the disappointment of having it go unappreciated can be especially tough.
It’s worth considering whether that €200 could be better spent elsewhere – on the wedding itself, perhaps, or on other meaningful experiences for your guests.
Think of Decor as an Investment
When selecting wedding decorations, think carefully about their long-term value and purpose. Will they become a cherished keepsake in your home, or will they eventually end up stored away or repurposed? If you envision keeping them for years to come, it’s wise to prioritize quality over cost. On the other hand, if you anticipate only using them once or twice, consider the environmental impact and financial waste of buying something that may soon be discarded.
This mindful approach can help you make a more informed decision about your wedding décor purchases.
Save Cash with a Few Little Tweaks with the Flowers
Reuse & Recycle
Maximize the versatility of your wedding decor by repurposing elements from the ceremony space to the reception. This not only adds visual cohesion but also streamlines logistics. A great example is using groomsmen (or a trusted friend) to relocate items like pew ends or lanterns from the ceremony area to the tables, entrance hall, or other strategic spots.
This thoughtful touch will create a seamless transition between the two spaces and allow your guests to fully immerse themselves in the celebration.
Stick with One Flower
When it comes to purchasing flowers in bulk, the more varieties you choose, the higher the cost. To keep costs down, consider opting for a bouquet or arrangement featuring just one type of flower. This approach is not only budget-friendly but also creates a clean and elegant aesthetic. Think bunches of hydrangea or lavender – simple yet striking. By limiting your selection to a single bloom, you can achieve a sophisticated look without breaking the bank.
Pick Flowers That Are In Season
While many flowers have a designated blooming period, modern cultivation methods have made them available throughout the year. This is largely due to large-scale production in regions with different climates, which can result in higher costs for consumers. Fortunately, local florists are well-versed in advising on the best seasons for specific blooms and can help you make informed choices.
By opting for flowers that are in season, you’ll not only save time and money but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly approach to floral arrangements.
Wedding Catering: Keeping the Budget Sweet
Opt For A Single-Tiered Wedding Cake
Prioritize elegance and taste by opting for a single-tiered wedding cake that exudes sophistication. Browse through these stunning examples to spark your imagination and find the perfect design inspiration.
Fake The Wedding Cake
When a grandiose traditional work of art is the envisioned wedding cake, but budget constraints are a reality, a clever solution can be employed. To create an illusion of grandeur without breaking the bank, incorporating artificial layers – think styrofoam decorated to mimic the real thing – can make a significant impact. This tactic can even extend to replacing the entire cake with a fake version, allowing for simple iced cake slices to be served instead.
Wedding cake bakers are well-versed in this trick, so it’s essential to have an open conversation with them to bring your vision to life.
Simple, Store-Bought Treats
For couples who don’t consider wedding cake a top priority, there are many convenient options available in stores. A popular choice among real-life newlyweds is Marks & Spencer, which consistently offers a delectable range of flavors. This store was the go-to destination for Dan and Carolyn as well as Georgie and Ben, two couples who opted for a stress-free wedding cake experience.
Stick with Seasonal
When it comes to selecting wedding foods, it’s essential to adopt the same approach as with flowers – opt for what’s in season! By doing so, you’ll not only save time and money but also ensure that your dishes taste their absolute best. Winter lamb or fresh berries in summer are clear no-gos. Instead, choose ingredients that are at their peak freshness during the respective seasons.
For instance, winter is ideal for hearty, warming comfort foods like stews and roasts, while summer is perfect for light, refreshing desserts like sorbet or fruit salads.
You Don’t Have to Have a Sit Down Meal
As couples look to break free from traditional wedding dining norms, a laid-back approach is gaining popularity. Consider embracing the relaxed vibe with a buffet-style meal, backyard BBQ, or even an outdoor picnic. Informal dining has evolved significantly, offering a range of creative and sophisticated options that cater to diverse tastes. The beauty lies in its simplicity – fewer courses mean lower costs, making it a more budget-friendly choice.
For added inspiration, check out the innovative food truck scene that’s revolutionizing wedding cuisine.
Wedding Style on a Budget
Grab a Bargain at a Sample Sale
For those who relish a good bargain, sample sales can be a treasure trove of affordable luxury. Imagine scoring high-end designer dresses at a whopping 70% discount! It’s no wonder many stylish brides-to-be eagerly await the latest sample sale offerings from their favorite designers and boutiques. To stay in the loop and snag these incredible deals, simply follow your go-to brands on social media, sign up for their newsletters, and check out our event calendar regularly.
By doing so, you’ll be able to save hundreds of dollars and treat yourself (or a loved one) to a show-stopping designer dress at a fraction of the original price.
Find a Wedding Dress on the High Street
For couples prioritizing affordability and practicality over luxury, a high-street wedding dress can be an excellent option. Just take Andressa’s stunning real wedding as inspiration – she opted for a breathtaking Coast gown that perfectly captured her personal style without breaking the bank.
Visit a Charity Wedding Dress Boutique
For couples on a budget, specialist charity shops can be a treasure trove of affordable and stylish options. Many of these charities receive donations from high-end boutiques and bridal designers, which means you might be able to find a stunning, brand new wedding dress for under €500! In Ireland, we’re particularly fond of Barnardos Bridal Rooms and NCBI Bridal Rooms, both of which offer an impressive selection of gently used gowns at unbeatable prices.
Accessorise With Family Heirlooms
Many couples incorporate meaningful elements into their wedding day attire, and borrowing from family treasures is a wonderful way to do just that. Think about it: you can bring a touch of your parents or grandparents’ personal style into your own bridal look without breaking the bank. Not only will this sentimental approach save you a few hundred euros, but it’ll also add a unique and emotional layer to your overall aesthetic.
Groomswear On A Budget
For those on a budget, hiring a suit can be a savvy decision. This approach offers an affordable way to look sharp without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for alternatives to buying a suit outright, consider checking out reputable suit hire rental stores in Ireland, which can be found by clicking this link.
Hit the High Street for Shoes
When it comes to choosing the perfect shoes for your wedding day, there are a few things to consider. If you’re opting for a long gown, your footwear will likely be hidden from view – unless, of course, you’re having portraits taken outside, in which case scuffed or dirty shoes may not make the best impression! In these cases, a high street pair can be a great option, offering a practical solution to your shoe woes.
Alternatively, if you have your heart set on designer heels, consider choosing a pair that you’ll feel comfortable wearing again and again. This often means opting for bold, bright or metallic colours rather than white or ivory – not only will they make a statement, but they’ll also be easy to repurpose for future special occasions.
The Bridal Party Bargains: Bridesmaids & Groomsmen
Limit Your Numbers
When considering the size of your bridal party, it’s essential to strike a balance between inclusivity and practicality. One effective approach is to limit the number of attendants to make planning and budgeting more manageable. A simple yet effective way to achieve this is by focusing on immediate family members only.
Affordable and Wearable (Again)
When it comes to dressing up the ladies in your bridal party, you’ll want to make sure they all feel like princesses. Whether you’ve got one or ten bridesmaids, finding a pretty dress that fits within your budget can be a challenge. For those on a tighter budget, consider looking to high street brands like Coast and Pamela Scott, which offer stylish options at affordable prices.
Rent The Runway
When it comes to outfitting your wedding party, a significant expense can be a major stress factor. However, there’s an alternative that can help alleviate this burden: renting bridesmaids dresses. By opting for rental dresses, you’ll not only save on costs but also enjoy the convenience of having a wide range of styles and sizes at your fingertips. In our experience, some of the best places to rent from can be found here.
Mixing it Up: Options for the Entertainment on a Budget
DIY Music
When it comes to music at your event, we highly recommend hiring a professional live act or DJ to get the party started. However, if budget constraints are a concern, consider enlisting the help of a trusted friend who’s familiar with spinning tracks. To ensure a seamless experience, make sure they coordinate with the venue or PA system provider ahead of time to work out any technical kinks.
And don’t forget to give them a rundown on what to play – our curated Spotify playlists are a great place to start for some expertly crafted tunes.
Go Social with the Photobooth
A DIY photo booth is an excellent way to add some excitement to your gathering without breaking the bank. To create your own, start by visiting a party supplies store and selecting some props and masks that fit your theme. Tiger is often a great resource for these types of items. Once you have your supplies, simply invite your guests to take their own photos – you could even create a custom hashtag to collect the snaps or use a photo-sharing app.
If Polaroid cameras are on your radar, be sure to factor in the cost of film before making a purchase, as it can add up quickly.
Be Careful With Your Drinks
Ditch the traditional toast ritual and let the good times roll – literally. By keeping the wine flowing, you’ll be able to keep your guests entertained without breaking the bank. After all, who will even notice the absence of a formal toast when everyone’s having so much fun? The real difference will be in your wallet, where you’ll see a significant reduction in your bar tab.
Getting There in Style – Save on Transport
Travel in Style
When it comes to transportation for your special day, it’s easy to overlook the costs involved. However, if having a specific car isn’t a priority for you, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member with a luxurious vehicle. Not only will you save on transportation expenses, but they’ll also be providing a thoughtful and memorable wedding gift – a win-win situation that benefits all parties involved.
By opting for this unique approach to wedding transportation, you can allocate those funds towards other important aspects of your celebration.
How to Save on The Honeymoon
Have A Mini Moon
Imagine a romantic getaway that’s more about relaxation than a full-blown honeymoon. Mini moons, as they’re called, offer a shorter but just-as-sweet escape after saying ‘I do’. European cities are a top choice for mini mooners, and it’s easy to see why. With their rich history, cultural attractions, and charming atmosphere, these destinations provide the perfect blend of romance and relaxation – all at a fraction of the cost of a two-week tropical paradise like the Maldives!
Delayed Gratification
Don’t feel pressured to rush into a honeymoon straight away. If a tropical escape is your dream, prioritize enjoying your wedding celebration first, then use the time to save up and potentially snag an even better deal at a different time of year. This approach allows you to look forward to another amazing experience in the future, making the wait worthwhile.
Think Value Not Cost
While this list provides a starting point for making sacrifices, it’s crucial to prioritize where you cut back. Rather than slashing expenses across the board, identify areas where you can make modest reductions without significantly impacting your daily life. By doing so, you’ll be able to allocate your hard-earned cash towards experiences and investments that will bring you lasting joy and satisfaction.
