10 Easy Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding
— By Brieonie Jenkins

Luckily you don’t need to throw away your wedding dreams or give up the things you love even if you are trying to be budget-savvy. Instead you can follow these 10 easy tips so you don’t find yourself at the wrong end of the budget spreadsheet!

Image by Ralph Bella Photography

1/ Set a Realistic Budget

Once you’ve made a plan, stick to it! Little extras here and there may not seem like much but they sure add up. Vendors are used to working with budgets of all sizes so be upfront about what you plan to spend. Ask them to only show you options in your price range and you won’t have to worry about falling in love with ideas that are out of reach.

2/ Look Out for Hidden Extras

Common surcharges such as cake-cutting, corkage or permits should be listed in your contract. Be clear about any further charges you may incur such as extra guests, damages and extending the evening to avoid being stung with an unexpected bill. For a full list of hidden extras, check out this article!

3/ Think Long Term

Spend on the memories and save on the details. Work your budget around your priorities, such as the photographer, venue, or your dress, rather than costly decorations. Chances are you won’t remember all of your decorative details so spend instead on what will bring you fond memories like the photos.

Image by Ralph Bella Photography

4/ Consider Off Season or Midweek

The colder months and week days are traditionally harder for vendors to book; many try to make the most of quieter times by offering great discounts. Ask around and you might be surprised by how much you can save simply by choosing a wedding date in the off season or simply swapping your Saturday for a Wednesday.

5/ Get Online

Why not skip the post office and email your invitations instead? Not only will you save money on postage and stationary, but it will help you keep everything organised. An electronic invitation makes it much easier for guests to RSVP promptly and they can put it in their diary straight away! However, you may still want to have a few hard copies made up to send to older relatives or as keepsakes.

6/ Band or DJ?

Be your own DJ with a customised playlist on your Ipod. Don’t know where to start? Why not use a streaming service like Spotfiy to play the latest hits without the hassle? Have guests RSVP with the name of their favourite song to ensure everyone gets on the dance floor.

Image by Ralph Bella Photography

7/ Embrace Pre-loved

Lots of couples buy beautiful décor which they only use once. Check out Trademe, charity shops or even garage sales for gently used decorations at a great price. Don’t forget to ask around, most people know someone recently married who may be willing to lend or sell you their adornments. You can also recoup some of your costs by on-selling anything you won’t use again.

8/ Make Your Flowers Work Over-time

Beautiful fresh blooms can take up a large chunk of your budget. Trim the costs by buying in season and keeping an open mind. You may have always pictured peonies but your florist will be able to suggest a more affordable and just as beautiful alternative. Even better, ask your florist to style your arrangements to work for both the ceremony and reception and organise for a family member or trusted friend to move them between venues while you’re having your photos taken

9/ Use What You’ve Got

Do you have a great baker in the family? Is your best friend the queen of DIY? Relieve some of the stress by accepting offers of help. Why not host a bake off and serve the delicious treats for desert? Or have your girlfriends over to help you with the centre pieces for the reception.

Image by Ralph Bella Photography

10/ Sweet Favours

Leave boxes by the dessert table and invite guests to take extra desserts home with them. Wedding favours are often left behind and leftover desserts go to waste. Avoid spending on things that won’t be used and turn your yummy desserts into a great take home treat for guests.