How To Throw A Wedding On A Budget

You’re planning the biggest celebration of your life. You’re writing out invitations to your friends and loved ones.  The planning has just begun, and you’re looking at your finances. You’ve come to the conclusion that you will need to plan your wedding on a budget. Where can you save money?

Here’s how to throw a wedding on a budget:

Decoration (DIY) (Wedding Day Sparklers, Mason Jars)

Decoration, flowers and themes can be pricey. There are many decorations and touches that are low cost and give your wedding a custom feel, without going over your budget. Wedding day sparklers are a great decoration and activity that your guests can enjoy. Sparklers make for great photos and decor at the event. Mason jars are also great decorations for centerpieces, flowers and lighting. Check Pinterest for DIY wedding decor ideas.

Location/Venue

Location and venue can be the biggest expense when planning a wedding. If you planned to rent a venue, hotel ballroom or hall, you’re looking at a steep rental cost. If you’re planning on a budget, here are a few things to consider.  Is your heart set on a particular location? Or theme? Consider hosting your wedding at a home. If you have a friend or family member with the outdoor space, you can plan a beautiful outdoor wedding without the rental cost. Parks are another venue to consider. Many parks are free or charge a small fee for occupying their space. Of course, if you use an outdoor location, be sure to have a backup plan for weather.

Food/Drink  

Food selection is an important part of the planning process. You want to have a menu that caters to your guests and serves delicious food! High-end catering and open bars can be very costly. When it comes to finding food for you wedding with a budget, you have a few options. First, if there’s a local restaurant you love, they tend to cater occasions for less. If you eliminate a wait staff and offer self-serve,  you can save money on setup/breakdown and additional costs. If you really want to save money, you could prepare your own food for your wedding guests and enlist family and friends for additional help.

Guest Lists

Make a list. Trim it down. Rewrite your list with changes. Trim it down again. Then finalize your list and make your own invitations. Craft stores offer stationary, ribbon, stamps and envelopes to make elegant invitations for your day. Personalize them with your own touches! Trimming down your guest will make your wedding intimate and save on food, venue and other costs.

Planning your wedding should be an enjoyable experience. Luckily with these tips, you will be one-step closer to throwing a wedding on a budget.