The Ultimate Cost-Cutting Wedding Checklist – Simple Steps To Creating Your Wedding Budget
Wedding planning on a budget? We’ve got you covered! We put together a list of cost-cutting wedding checklists which you can use to know where you can cut your budget without sacrificing quality! These wedding checklists are also holistic, so they can cover almost all bases while helping you plan your dream wedding without breaking the bank.
From finding affordable venues to DIY decor ideas, this blog can also provide practical tips and tricks to save money without compromising style. Without further ado, here are the checklists you can consider and work with, depending on your budget!
Wedding Checklist: Budget
- Research average costs for wedding elements in your area to establish a realistic budget.
- Prioritize must-have items within your budget and be willing to compromise on less important details.
- Use budgeting tools or apps to track expenses and stay on top of your financial plan.
Venue Selection
- Negotiate with venues for off-peak or weekday rates, which are often more budget-friendly.
- A Sunday morning wedding can be a significant savings with a more affordable brunch than a dinner.
- Opt for venues that don’t require permits, parking attendants, bathrooms, and tents, which can quickly add up to your budget.
- Determine if “cheaper” venues are supply rentals or in-inclusive. (All-inclusive venues may have high catering minimums, while other less expensive venues may require you to pay for glassware, dinnerware, linens, tables, chairs, etc.)
Rentals
- Research what wedding items would save you money by renting or purchasing. (Some items are better off purchased, while others are better off rented.)
Flowers and Décor
- Carnations are among the most cost-effective flowers, while roses are affordable throughout the year.
- Do not use your flower budget on costly table centerpieces for a non-sit-down dinner.
- Focus your décor on a specific area instead of spreading it around the venue.
- Use fabulous yet cheap fillers on bouquets and other floral arrangements, like bear grass and baby’s breath.
Drinks
- House liquors are a more cost-effective option than top-shelf liquors.
- Plan a cocktail hour where you can offer one signature cocktail or serve beer and wine instead of champagne.
- Skip a full open bar, and provide beers, house wines, and a few signature drinks instead.
- Limit the toasts to just the bride and groom.
Food
- Unlike a formal sit-down setup, a chef-attended dinner offers an interactive element and cuts down on the wait staff.
- A buffet style is also more cost-effective than a formal, sit-down service.
- Plan a cocktail hour with only 1 or 2 stations, and offer lighter and healthier foods.
Cake and Desserts
- Key lime, lemon, chocolate, and vanilla cakes are crowd favorites and cost lesser than carrot and red velvet cakes.
- Go for a smaller wedding cake and complement it with a dessert bar or cupcakes.
- Have a plated dessert with 2 to 3 options instead of an expensive Viennese dessert hour.
Music and Entertainment
- Book local musicians, bands, or DJs instead of high-priced entertainment options.
- A DJ is often a lot cheaper than hiring a full band.
- Cut out DJ’s extra time by asking a family member or friend who is a musician to perform during cocktail hour.
Photography/Videography
- Research local photographers and videographers who offer packages that fit your budget.
- Consider hiring them for a shorter duration to capture the key moments and candid shots.
- One person taking photos or videos is ideal for small weddings.
Service Charges and Taxes
- Read your wedding vendor contacts carefully and consider the service charges and taxes.
- Taxes can heavily impact your wedding budget’s bottom line and vary from state to state.
- Service charges can come from your beverage service, caterer, venue, and other vendors, running from 22% to 30%.
Planning your dream wedding doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With creativity, smart decision-making, and these wedding cost-cutting secrets, you can celebrate a lifetime without breaking the bank.
And to ensure you’re heading toward savings and you’ll not miss deadlines, our All-in-One Premium Wedding Planning Spreadsheet. This customizable wedding planning spreadsheet also includes premade mood boards. It’ll save you serious time and energy with no last-minute panics.
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