21 Amazing Tips to Plan a Wedding on a Budget
Weddings are magical, memorable… and, let’s be real, expensive. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to drain your savings or go into debt to have a beautiful, unforgettable celebration. With a little creativity and smart planning, you can have the wedding of your dreams — on a budget.
Here are 21 amazing tips to help you plan a gorgeous wedding without overspending, because love shouldn’t come with a financial hangover.
1. Set a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It)
Start with a clear number. Know what you can comfortably afford, and create a breakdown by category (venue, food, dress, etc.). Budgeting apps or spreadsheets are your best friend here.
2. Prioritize What Matters Most
Decide what’s non-negotiable. Is it the dress? The photos? The food? Splurge on your must-haves and find ways to save on the rest.
3. Trim the Guest List
Fewer guests = lower costs for food, drinks, tables, and more. An intimate wedding often feels more meaningful and manageable anyway.
4. DIY Where You Can
From centerpieces to invitations to signage, there are so many areas where a little DIY magic can save big bucks (and add a personal touch).
5. Choose an Off-Peak Date
Get married in the off-season (think winter or weekday weddings) and you’ll save significantly on venue, catering, and vendor costs.
6. Skip the Fancy Venue
Backyards, public parks, beaches, or family-owned land can make for beautiful — and budget-friendly — wedding locations.
7. Shop Sample Sales and Off-the-Rack Dresses
Say yes to the dress without the high price tag. Sample sales, trunk shows, or even gently-used gowns can save you hundreds (or thousands!).
8. Borrow or Rent What You Can
From décor to accessories, check rental companies, local Facebook groups, or ask recently married friends to borrow items.
9. Go Digital with Invitations
Skip the printing and postage. Use beautiful online invitation platforms like Paperless Post, Evite, or Greenvelope.
10. Enlist Talented Friends and Family
Do you know a photographer, musician, florist, or baker? Consider trading services or asking for help as a wedding gift.
11. Limit the Bar
Skip the full open bar. Offer a limited drink menu (beer, wine, one signature cocktail) or host a “happy hour” instead.
12. Opt for Buffet or Food Stations
Buffets or family-style meals tend to cost less than plated dinners, and they feel more relaxed and social, too.
13. Reuse Ceremony Décor for the Reception
Those gorgeous ceremony flowers? Move them to the reception space. Aisle runners? Repurpose as table runners.
14. Create a Wedding Playlist Instead of Hiring a DJ
Use Spotify or another streaming service and designate a tech-savvy friend to hit “play.” Bonus: You control the vibe all night. Here are some great songs to add to your playlist.
15. Cut the Cake — Literally
Skip the multi-tier masterpiece and go for a simple sheet cake or cupcakes. Guests won’t mind, and your wallet will thank you.
16. Buy in Bulk for DIY Favors or Decor
Wholesale stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, or online vendors like Amazon and AliExpress can help you save on supplies.
17. Use Local, In-Season Flowers
Imported blooms = higher prices. Opt for locally sourced, seasonal flowers or even faux florals that you can reuse or resell.
18. Skip the Extras You Don’t Care About
Do you really need a photo booth, elaborate guestbook, or custom cocktail napkins? If it’s not important to you, skip it!
19. Thrift and Resell
Check thrift stores, estate sales, and online marketplaces for wedding décor, vases, candle holders, and more. Then resell after the wedding!
20. Limit the Bridal Party
Fewer attendants = fewer bouquets, gifts, hair/makeup expenses, and coordination headaches.
21. Don’t Be Afraid to Break the Rules
Your wedding doesn’t have to follow anyone else’s template. Want a morning ceremony with a brunch buffet? Go for it. Prefer donuts over cake? Do it. The more you tailor it to you, the more you’ll enjoy it — and often, it’s cheaper too.
Before you go, check out some more helpful wedding tips:
Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue Before You Book
10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer
Budget-Friendly Tips for Doing Your Own Wedding Makeup
Thoughtful Bridesmaid Gift Ideas They’ll Actually Love
12-Month Wedding Planning Checklist
Wedding Day Nails for The Bride to Be
xo, Winky Pink