20 Ways To Save Money On Your Wedding

Save to Find It Later!

Weddings are one of the most special days in your life, but they can also be incredibly expensive. Between the venue, food, attire, and all the little details, the costs can add up quickly.

But the good news is, there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing the things that matter most to you. It’s all about being smart with your choices and knowing where to cut costs without feeling like you’re missing out.

We’ve actually used some of these ways to save money on our wedding and considered others so we hope these will help you too!

1. Find a Venue That Is Already Beautiful to Minimize Decor and Flower Costs

One of the easiest ways to save on your wedding is by choosing a venue that doesn’t need much decorating.

We did that! Honestly, we were kind of lazy to go into decoration considerations and just wanted our wedding venue to steal the show so we wouldn’t have to spend any money or attention on decor! It worked like a charm!

When you pick a location that’s naturally beautiful, like a garden or a historic building, you don’t have to spend a lot on extra flowers or decorations. This means you can cut down on costs and still have a stunning backdrop for your big day.

Plus, less decoration means less stress trying to make everything look perfect. I found that venues like these often come with built-in charm, so you don’t need to do much to make it wedding-ready. This choice not only saves you money but also time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your wedding that matter most to you.

2. Get Married in a National Park for Stunning Views and Low Permit Fees

National parks offer some of the most breathtaking views, and the good news is, they’re also affordable. A simple permit fee, usually just a few hundred dollars, can get you access to these natural wonders. The scenery alone is worth it; think mountains, lakes, forests, or beaches as your backdrop.

Because the setting is so naturally beautiful, you won’t need to spend much, if anything, on decorations. The photos will be stunning, and the overall experience is something your guests will remember forever. It’s an outdoor lover’s dream, and even if you’re not, the cost savings might just make you one.

3. Buy Dry Flowers Instead of Fresh Flowers

Fresh flowers are beautiful, but they can be pricey, especially when you need a lot of them. Instead, consider using dry flowers for your wedding. They’re often less expensive, and they have a unique, rustic look that can be really charming.

I also love the boho wedding style and dry flowers fit right in it!

Another plus is that dried flowers last forever, so you can keep them as a memento from your wedding day. You can find a variety of dry flowers that come in different colors and types, making it easy to match your wedding theme. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have one less thing to worry about on your big day, as these flowers won’t wilt or need much care.

4. Hold the Ceremony at the Same Venue as the Reception to Reduce Transportation Costs

Having your ceremony and reception at the same place is a smart way to save money. It means you don’t need to rent extra transportation to move guests from one location to another, which can add up quickly.

It also simplifies the logistics of your day, making everything flow more smoothly. Guests will appreciate not having to travel between venues, and it gives you more time to enjoy the celebration. Plus, many venues offer discounts when you book them for the entire day, making it a double win for your budget.

5. Opt for a Buffet-Style Meal, Which Is Often Cheaper Per Person

Buffet-style meals can be a budget-friendly alternative to traditional plated dinners. Buffets generally require less staff since guests serve themselves, which can cut down on labor costs. Plus, you have more flexibility in the variety of food you can offer, which can cater to different dietary needs without needing to provide separate meals.

Buffets can also encourage a more relaxed and social atmosphere, where guests can move around and mingle more easily. If you’re looking to keep your catering costs in check while still offering a range of delicious options, a buffet might be the way to go.

6. DIY Your Decor to Save on Decorations

Doing your own decor is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your wedding. It can be as simple as making your own table centerpieces, creating your own signs, or even crafting some cute details to hang around the venue.

There are tons of DIY tutorials online to help you get started, and many projects don’t require much more than some basic supplies and a bit of creativity. Not only does DIY decor save you money, but it also makes your wedding more personal and unique. Plus, it’s a fun way to involve family and friends in the planning process.

7. Choose an Off-Peak Wedding Date to Get Discounts on Venues and Vendors

Getting married during the off-peak season is one of the easiest ways to save big on your wedding. Wedding venues and vendors often charge less during their slower months, which can be winter or early spring, depending on where you live. You might even find that weekdays are cheaper than weekends.

By choosing an off-peak date, you can potentially save thousands of dollars, which you can put towards other aspects of your wedding or even your honeymoon. Plus, because fewer couples get married during these times, you’ll have more options available for venues and vendors, and they might be more willing to negotiate on price.

8. Consider Getting Married on a Weekday

Another great way to save money on your wedding is to consider getting married on a weekday. Many venues offer lower rates for weddings held Monday through Thursday, simply because there’s less demand. You might also find that vendors like photographers, DJs, and caterers are more available and flexible on weekdays, which can lead to additional savings.

While it might be less traditional than a weekend wedding, having your big day on a weekday can still be just as special, and it might even allow some of your guests to take a long weekend off work to join in the celebration.

9. Choose a Local Photographer to Avoid Travel Fees

Choosing a local photographer is a practical way to save money on your wedding. Photographers often charge travel fees if they have to come from far away, which can add up quickly. By hiring someone local, you eliminate those extra costs.

Plus, local photographers are likely to be familiar with your venue and the best spots for photos, which can make for a smoother experience on your wedding day. You’re also supporting a small business in your community, which is a nice bonus. And don’t be afraid to ask about package deals or if they offer any discounts for booking a certain number of hours.

10. Choose a Side Hustle Photographer for Lower Rates

If you’re looking to save even more on photography, consider hiring someone who does wedding photography as a side gig. These photographers often charge less than those who do it full-time, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deliver great quality.

Many side hustle photographers are just starting out and eager to build their portfolios, so they’ll work hard to capture beautiful shots at a fraction of the cost. Just make sure to review their work and see if their style matches what you’re looking for. This approach can be a win-win, where you get quality photos at a lower price.

11. Choose a Photographer Who Can Take a Few Videos to Save on Videographers

If you want to save on the cost of hiring a videographer, look for a photographer who’s willing to shoot some video clips during your wedding. Many photographers are equipped to capture both photos and short videos, and they might be able to bundle this service into your photography package.

This can be a great way to get some moving memories of your day without the cost of hiring a separate videography team. It won’t be a full cinematic production, but you’ll still have a few special moments captured on video, which is often more than enough to remember the day.

This is what we did. Our photographer was amazing and she took a couple of videos which we love looking back on.

12. Limit the Guest List to Reduce Overall Costs

One of the most effective ways to cut down on wedding costs is to limit the guest list. Each guest adds to the cost of food, drinks, seating, and more, so by inviting fewer people, you can significantly reduce your expenses. It might be tough to make those cuts, but keeping your guest list small means you can have a more intimate and meaningful celebration.

You’ll also have more room in your budget for other things that are important to you, like your honeymoon or your first home together. And remember, your wedding day is about you and your partner, not about throwing the biggest party.

13. Borrow or Rent Wedding Attire Instead of Buying New

Wedding attire can be one of the most expensive parts of your day, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of buying a brand-new dress or suit, consider borrowing or renting. There are plenty of options for renting wedding dresses, tuxedos, and other attire at a fraction of the cost of buying them.

Many rental companies offer designer dresses, so you can still wear something stunning without breaking the bank. Borrowing from a friend or family member is another great option, and it can add a special, sentimental touch to your outfit. Either way, you’ll look amazing and save a lot of money.

14. Use a Friend or Family Member as the Officiant

Having a friend or family member officiate your wedding is not only meaningful, but it’s also a great way to save money. Many people are surprised to find out how easy it is to become ordained online, which means someone close to you can legally perform your ceremony.

This can make your wedding feel even more personal, as someone who knows you well will be leading you through your vows. Plus, it cuts out the need to hire a professional officiant, which can be an extra cost that adds up quickly. This is a simple and heartfelt way to make your day special.

15. Print Your Own Invitations or Send Digital Invites

Wedding invitations can be surprisingly expensive, especially when you factor in design, printing, and postage. A more budget-friendly option is to print your own invitations.

For us, this was a no brainer. Since our family and friends are all spread out in different counties, it just made more sense to us!

There are plenty of templates online that you can customize and print at home or through an affordable printing service. If you want to save even more, consider sending digital invitations.

They’re not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. Plus, digital invites can be interactive and allow guests to RSVP online, which can help you keep track of responses more easily. It’s a simple way to cut costs while still keeping your guests informed and excited about your big day.

16. Have a Small Wedding Cake and Cupcakes to Complement

Instead of splurging on a large, elaborate wedding cake, consider opting for a smaller cake that you can still cut for the traditional photos. Then, supplement it with cupcakes or other small desserts for your guests.

Cupcakes are often less expensive, and you can offer a variety of flavors to satisfy everyone’s tastes. This way, you still get to have the classic cake-cutting moment without the hefty price tag of a large, multi-tiered cake. Plus, cupcakes are easier to serve and can double as part of your decor if you arrange them nicely.

17. Buy Food at the Grocery Store to Supplement the Catering Food and Reduce Cost

If you’re looking to save on catering costs, consider buying some of the food from the grocery store to supplement what the caterer provides. For example, you could purchase appetizers, snacks, or desserts yourself, which can be much cheaper than having everything provided by the caterer.

This can also be a great way to add a personal touch, with some homemade treats or family-favorite recipes. It’s a simple and effective way to reduce the overall cost of your wedding meal without sacrificing quality or variety. Just make sure to coordinate with your caterer to ensure everything fits together seamlessly.

18. DIY Your Welcome Sign with Wood and White Paint

Creating your own welcome sign is an easy and affordable DIY project that can add a personal touch to your wedding. All you need is a piece of wood and some white paint, and you can create a beautiful sign that welcomes your guests to the ceremony or reception.

There are plenty of tutorials online to guide you through the process, and you can customize the sign to match your wedding theme. Not only is this a cost-effective solution, but it’s also a fun project that you can do with your partner or friends. Plus, it’s something you can keep as a memento after the wedding.

19. DIY Your Seating Chart or Simply Use Seating Name Tags

Another simple way to save money is by creating your own seating chart or using seating name tags. You can easily make a seating chart using a large poster board or even a chalkboard, and it can be a fun DIY project to personalize with your wedding colors or theme.

If you prefer a simpler option, just use seating name tags at each table setting. This method is not only cost-effective but also adds a personal touch to your reception. It’s an easy way to guide your guests to their seats without spending a lot on elaborate signage.

20. Choose a Non-Traditional Wedding Cake or Dessert

Instead of opting for a traditional wedding cake, consider choosing a non-traditional dessert like pies, donuts, or even a candy buffet. These options can be more budget-friendly and offer something unique for your guests.

Non-traditional desserts can also be easier to serve and might not require as much preparation or setup as a large wedding cake. Plus, they can be a fun way to showcase your personality and preferences as a couple. By thinking outside the box, you can save money and still treat your guests to something delicious and memorable.