If you are craving a traditional wedding but still want to save money, you’re in luck. There are a plethora of ways to plan your budget and make thoughtful yet subtle changes to keep your spending in check. With the average wedding costing $33,900 (according to The Knot), expenses can add up fast and unexpectedly. Although your big day should be one of the most memorable, sinking a ton of funds into it can be hard on you, your parents, or whoever is footing the bill. I always like to remind my couples during their budget meeting that they want to make sure you can live fruitfully after your wedding. Using our many years of experience, we have put together a list of 10 ways to save money while planning the wedding of your dreams. 

1. Pare Down the Guest List

If you are looking to save money while wedding planning, the first place to look is the guest list. For every guest, that’s another invitation, two more chairs, another meal, dessert serving, etc. For every ten guests, that’s additional linen and centerpiece. Another thing to consider is the venue size and staffing that will be needed to accommodate your guests.

2. Set Your Priorities 

Open communication is vital here. Discuss freely with your planner what is most important and what is not so important. Being able to know where it’s okay to cut back will significantly help reduce costs. Maybe elaborate floral arrangements aren’t your thing or an oversized cake for entry. All of those are places that can be scaled back in your plans and reduce spending. Securing what’s most important to you first will also reduce the possibility of stress during your planning process.

3. Hire Reputable Vendors 

Couples can save a lot of heartache and money by going with true professionals in the beginning. It’s an unfortunate circumstance when a couple has to reach out to a professional and spend more money to correct a situation that has not been managed correctly. You want to also be certain that you don’t run out of food and your photographs are delivered as promised after the wedding.

4. Utilize Your Wedding Planners Connections 

Many of your vendors are friends behind the scenes. They often work together and are familiar with other wedding pros’ styles, prices, and workflow. I like to say often, hire vendors that “dance” well together. After many years of working together through the planning process and on the day of, it’s certain that we have experienced everything together as a team to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly.

5. Consider a Brunch Wedding 

A secret about us here at Crystal Williams Events – we sure do have a soft spot for morning weddings and brunch rehearsals! Want to plan a Fall wedding but still make it to the evening football game in time? A morning ceremony and brunch reception would be ideal for you. Options like a waffle bar and omelet station can add up to significant savings over dinnertime menus.

6. Think Twice About DIY Flowers 

Pinterest may have you dreaming about making your own floral arrangements, but we very strongly advise against this. This could lead to stress and multiply the cost of a florist providing fresh blooms. For instance, fresh floral centerpieces should be arranged on the day of the ceremony, even if a couple has hired a day-of coordinator to handle these last-minute details. Artificial flowers being cheaper than fresh is a myth. In fact, good artificial flowers are usually made of silk and can be more expensive than their natural counterparts. There’s so much more that you end up purchasing to create the arrangements, such as glue, wiring, silk, etc. The thought of all the work, time, and headache is nauseating – skip the DIY and speak to a floral designer about budget-friendly options for your wedding.

7. Consider Cake Options 

Don’t skip your favorite cake vendor because you think they are out of your reach. There are so many options here to discuss. A “kitchen cake” is a great option. You can still have your dream cake and eat it, too! Instead of choosing a three-tier delight that can feed all guests, consider a smaller cake to display and cut. When it’s time to serve, a sheet cake can be cut out of guests’ sight. They won’t know the difference, but your budget will. Dessert alternatives are also a favorite of ours. Miniature cupcakes offer guests the perfect serving size, and donuts are another trend that offers the same portability factor. Either way, skipping the cake and going for a different dessert can minimize your expenses.

8. ETSY 

This is one of my favorites to recommend to my couples who are looking for ways to save while wedding planning. There are so many talented creators on Etsy, a platform for all things handmade. You can purchase  wedding day signage, favors, gifts, and more at a reasonable price because you’re usually dealing directly with the maker.