Find Angel

Wedding budgeting

None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.

How this was put together

If you only read a few

  1. Use potted plants as centerpieces that guests can take home as gifts.

    They are cheaper than bouquets and serve as both decor and favors.

    3 people, independently

  2. Purchase blooms from supermarkets or warehouse clubs rather than specialty shops.

    They cost less and only need to remain fresh for a short period.

    3 people, independently

  3. Negotiate with venues by selecting less popular weekends or off-season dates.

    Prices for venues and vendors are lower during these times; one couple cut costs in half by choosing a busy festival weekend.

    3 people, independently

  4. Invest $50-100 in a quality suit from a department store that you can reuse for 5-10 years rather than renting formal wear.

    3 people, independently

  5. Ask relatives and friends to contribute food for a shared meal gathering.

    • one perspective argues against potlucks because guests should not have to make their own food

    4 people, independently

  1. Hold the wedding at a free or low-cost location such as a backyard, public park, community center, or YMCA pavilion.

    4 people, independently

  2. Skip having a wedding party to avoid the costs of gifts and coordination.

    4 people, independently

  3. Wear a sundress or non-traditional dress instead of a formal wedding gown.

    4 people, independently

  4. Make origami or paper flowers for bouquets to skip floral costs.

    3 people, independently

4 more on this

  1. Serve no alcohol or limit the bar to specific drinks like wine, bloody marys, screwdrivers, and champagne to reduce costs.

    3 people, independently

  2. Limit the number of invitees, since headcount typically drives up costs for venue space, catering, and seating.

    5 people, independently

  3. Have a friend or family member officiate the ceremony for free, potentially getting ordained online if necessary.

    5 people, independently

  4. Make DIY decorations using inexpensive materials like painted pots, old glass bottles, or thrifted items.

    3 people, independently

Close