The average cost of a wedding in 2021 was roughly $20,300, some couples have even spent more. From the ring to the venue to the postage for the invitations, even the smallest things can make costs add up quickly. But here we’re about to talk about spending less. The only truly unavoidable fee is getting your marriage license, which can range anywhere from $60 to $100 depending on the state. Everything else can be negotiated, DIYed, or have less expensive options. There are a few tips and tricks that we have picked up throughout the years and want to share them with you.
Cut your own cake
This one sounds insane, but listen, it makes sense. Delegate this to a family member or friend & save lots. Especially when some venues charge anywhere from $2 to $5 per guest to cut the cake.
Consider getting married on a week day
Weekday weddings are not the most desirable days to get married on, but that's the point. By getting married Monday-Thursday, the venue and vendor fees are typically, significantly, less than what it would be on the weekends.
Design your own invitations
Designing your own save the dates & invitations is so easy now! Canva has free templates so you can just insert your information and photos, or you create and format your own! Then all you have to do is print them out and mail them! (PRO TIP: you can get them printed for cheap right through Canva & the quality is amazing!)
Get a Cricut
Now this might seem silly, expensive, & time consuming - but it is worth the investment! Buying a Cricut can help you make signs, decor, cake toppers, and even address invitations! It might cost a little at the start, but it will definitely save you in the long run! And once the celebrations begin- bridal showers, bachelorette parties, etc -.you will wish you got one!
Cut the list
We all have family and friends that we love and want to have at our wedding. But hear me out, do both you and your partner know them? Have you talked to them in the last 3 years? Do you really want them there or is it just your grandma’s neighbor's niece that you had a playdate with once when you were 5? Think about it, because the fewer guests, the less the wedding will cost. You can buy less food and drink, pick a smaller venue, and overall have more time with the truly important people.
Buy your dress off the rack
Buying your dress off the rack, like here at Brilliant Bridal, can allow you to buy a brand new, designer dress for 30%-80% off from the original price. You can definitely find your dream dress within your original budget, or even a little less!
Make your own bouquet
You can buy flowers in bulk from Sam’s Club, Costco, or Trader Joe's and make your own bouquets, centerpieces, and even boutonnieres! This will definitely save you a bit!
Skip the wedding programs
We get it, they’ve always been at the weddings we have gone to, but they really aren’t necessary. All your guests know why they are there, who they are there for, and what happens at a wedding. You get married, and then we party.
Skip the Liquor
Now, we all love a good drink and will want to toast your new marriage, but if you skip the liquor and opt for beer, wine, and maybe some seltzers, you’ll be paying less and still have some good drinks to keep the good times going!
Go from menus to thank you
Typically your guests will pick chicken or fish, or there will be a buffet to choose from at a wedding. Instead of menu cards, place your thank you cards at each seat. This is a two birds one stone situation. You’ll save from making menu cards AND postage for your thank you notes!
There’s so many places you can save! But one thing you should look into before going outside your venue's pre-approved list of vendors is that they don’t charge a fee for you going with an outside professional. But overall, this is your wedding! Wedding planning can be stressful and costly, but we promise you, once you get down the aisle, you’ll realize how worth it it all was!