Let’s face it…

We’re all trying to save money where we can on a wedding, no matter the size. Lucky for you, there are a few ways to do that without sacrificing things that are important to you. We still want you to have the wedding of your dreams! Just, without breaking the bank. Let’s get into my tips to save money on your wedding.

1. Guestlist

The number of guests you invite will be your biggest money sucker. The venue size, food and drinks, floral table arrangements, and even more all depend on how many people you invite. Decide who you absolutely want there, and think about who might be considered “courtesy guests.” Do you want to invite your courtesy guests? It’s okay if you do, but you might end up spending more if they come. Also, remember that only 75-85% of people you invite will actually come.

2. Flowers

You wouldn’t believe how much certain flowers cost. To save money, consider picking less expensive flowers for arrangements and/or reducing the number of arrangements. In-season flowers are typically less expensive, for example. Here are a few others that won’t break the bank:

• Gerbera Daisies
• Hydrangeas
• Solidago
• Lilies
• Alstroemeria

You can also save on floral arrangements by picking 3-5 types of flowers and ordering them in bulk. Florists will get discounts, and that means you will, too! Plus, you’ll still have plenty to work with to create some diversity in arrangements.

3. Photography

You can skip add-on options like photo booths, two photographers, a videographer, etc. These add-ons can rack up quickly.

You can also choose a less expensive package that doesn’t include hard copies or albums because you can always order those later. There a ton of great questions to ask your photographer here!

4. Menu and bar

Okay, food and drinks are another area that can drain your budget quickly. Again, your food and drink budget will depend on the number of guests you have. You can easily cut menu costs by:

• Simplifying the menu from five courses to three
• Hiring food trucks for appetizers or dessert
• Offering less expensive champagne during the reception and only bringing out the fancy stuff for the toast
• Open bars are great but super expensive. Consider skipping it entirely or offering a couple of drink tickets to each guest
• Not a fan of cake? Get a small (and simple) wedding cake for the cake cutting ceremony, and offer small desserts to guests

5. Consider other days of the week

Saturdays are the most expensive day of the week to get married. Wedding venues and rehearsal dinner locations will charge hundreds or thousands of dollars more for Saturday weddings. Fridays or Sundays are better, with weekdays being even less expensive. 

6. Dress Shop Early

Shoot for ordering a wedding dress at least 8-9 months in advance. That way, you’ll avoid rush fees and last-minute alterations.

7. Printables

Save some dollars by printing fewer (or no) programs, escort cards, and menus. If you decide to order these things, do it at the same time as your wedding invitations. You’ll save on printing and shipping fees since you’ll be ordering everything all at once. 

Which of these money-saving tips are you going to do? Hopefully, all of them! There are many other ways you can DIY a wedding, but these are a few areas I see people being the most conscious of in terms of budget. If you’d like more wedding advice and meet with me about your wedding photography, you can book a call with me here. I look forward to meeting you!

About Harry McLaughlin Photography

I take pride in creating a fun environment and connecting with vendors so that everything can run smoothly on your big day. I’ll be with you every step of the way. From engagement shoots to day-of photos, you can rest easy knowing I’ll give you the photos you’ve always dreamed of. When you book with me, you’ll get a custom experience unlike any other.

I love to center my shoots around music – the photos I get of people jamming to their favorite song are priceless. I remember what it was like to walk down the aisle myself, all the big feelings and emotions, and I know how important this day is for you. Let’s create special moments together! Fill out this form to get started.