5 Tips for Saving Money on Your Wedding without Compromising on Style

There’s no doubt about it...weddings are expensive. Although the day is one of the most important in a bride and groom’s life, it’s also just that - a single day. While you may not be able to have all the elements you dreamed of as a child without breaking the bank, there are plenty of great strategies for cutting costs without sacrificing your overall vision. Consider these ideas for ways to save in these five major components of wedding planning.

The photos

Choosing the right photographer is easily one of the most important aspects of wedding planning. Though the event only lasts a few hours, great photos last a lifetime. Although many will tell you not to skimp on photography, there are still ways to save. The best thing you can do is book your photographer well in advance. Many photographers offer advance booking rates, which cuts down the costs considerably. If you plan to have your reception and venue at the same place, you can also get ceremony and reception photos done in a fraction of the time, thereby reducing the price. You can also request to receive the photos digitally and print them yourself at a later date.

The food

Expensive, four-course meals are a thing of the past. When it comes down to it, your guests aren’t there for the food (but the same may not be true for the alcohol). Have a close family member put together appetizer trays, such as charcuterie boards, to help your guests fill up. Then, serve a single course. If you’re not worried about formality, ordering pizza or some other type of takeout is also a great option.

The rings

Like the photographs, the wedding rings will remain important long after the actual day. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, or opt for something without diamonds. If you do choose to buy a new diamond ring, make sure the diamond has been ethically sourced. Many couples are now choosing to purchase antique ring sets. Not only does this allow you to give a previously loved ring a second chance at life, but you’ll end up with something truly unique and have a great story to tell.

Real Wedition weddings: G&A opted to make their own wedding rings and told the story of their wonderful experience inside their personalised wedding magazine.

The dress

Like wedding rings, brides are choosing to buy dresses second hand. As this becomes more popular, upscale pre-loved dress boutiques are popping up in most cities. Unlike other second-hand clothing, a used dress has only been worn once, making it essentially brand new. The cost savings that come with a pre-worn dress also leaves more room in the budget for alterations and additions, allowing you to create the dress of your dreams without shelling out enough money to buy a used car.

The venue

For the best wedding venue prices, skip the summer wedding and choose an off-season date. Public parks are also a great way to save money, as long as they’re not so far off the beaten track that you’re paying a premium for decor and catering delivery. Booking an all-inclusive package can also sometimes be to your benefit, as some venues offer discounts for packages. This also reduces the headache of trying to coordinate multiple providers.

Real Wedition weddings: H&R opted for a February wedding, this time of year is less busy at venues which means huge savings can be had, the darker cold evenings can make for a wonderfully atmospheric and cosy party.

Photo credit: Jacob Malinski Photography

Sharing your wedding style with your guests

If you would like to share your wedding style and details in a personalised wedding magazine, do get in touch with liz@wedition.co.uk