The experts share tips on cutting costs without sacrificing your dream wedding
Planning a wedding can quickly become overwhelming as costs seem to skyrocket beyond expectations. Navigating these expenses can be challenging, and no one knows the financial landscape better than professional wedding planners, who handle these high prices regularly.
“Frankly, the wedding industry is all over the place with costs,” says Kate Ford, a wedding and event planner based in California. It’s easy for couples to get in over their heads no matter what their budget is, she adds. “Talking about what to expect, and what’s realistic, is so important.”
Here are a few tips wedding planners like Kate recommend to cut costs for your big day:
1. Skip the wedding party
Eliminating bridesmaids and groomsmen can save you thousands. “You’ll cut costs on attire, gifts, hair and makeup services (averaging $300 per person), florals (about $175 per person), transportation, and more,” says Ford. Plus, your friends and family will have more time to relax and enjoy the day without being tied to wedding duties. It can also reduce wedding-related stress on friendships—something many bridesmaids can’t say.
If you want loved ones involved but don’t want the full wedding party, there are many roles they can take without requiring matching outfits or walking down the aisle. They can join you for dress shopping, help you get ready, make a speech, do a reading, or assist with photos. These tasks are meaningful and don’t come with a hefty price tag.
If someone is upset about not being in the wedding party, you can say, “We’re not having a formal wedding party, but I’d love for you to participate in another way. Your friendship and support mean so much to me.”
2. Enforce a no-plus-one policy
“One of the best ways to control your wedding budget is managing the guest list,” says Jane Handel, owner of Jane Handles Weddings. More guests mean more rentals, food, flowers, staff, and stationery. To keep things intimate (and affordable), consider limiting or eliminating plus-ones. If someone asks if they can bring a guest, a polite response is, “We’re keeping our wedding small and aren’t allowing plus-ones, but we’re excited to celebrate with you.”
For my own wedding, my spouse and I used a simple rule: if we hadn’t met the person, they weren’t invited. This approach saved us from meeting strangers on our big day, and most friends understood. Plus, having a few unattached guests can add a little intrigue to the evening!
3. Opt for a DJ over a band
A live band can certainly elevate the vibe of your wedding, but it’s a costly choice. Quotes for bands can range from $25,000 to $30,000 or more. In contrast, DJs typically cost between $3,500 and $4,000.
Plus, bands often come with extra expenses, like stages, lighting, and meals for the performers. If it’s a destination wedding, you may also need to cover their travel and accommodations. DJs are not only more budget-friendly, but they also usually provide the necessary sound equipment for your ceremony and cocktail hour.
4. Skip the traditional wedding cake (and favors)
A gorgeous cake is nice but often goes uneaten. Consider going with a smaller display cake alongside a dessert table. A tiered wedding cake can cost over $1,000, while a simple one-tier cake from a local bakery can cost under $100—and might taste better too.
You can also combine dessert with wedding favors. “Many guests leave traditional favors behind,” says Marie. A thoughtful to-go snack, like chocolates from a local shop or cookies made from a family recipe, is more likely to be appreciated. Or, you can skip favors altogether. When was the last time you cherished a wedding favor? Exactly.
5. Stick to one location
“Having separate venues for the ceremony and reception increases costs,” Ford explains. Not only will you need transportation between locations, but it also adds time—meaning more hours for your photographer and videographer. You’ll also likely need extra flowers, decorations, and sound equipment, all of which can be avoided by using a single venue.
6. Skip the day-after brunch
Farewell brunches can end up being a waste. The couple is exhausted, and many guests are too hungover to attend. In fact, 30-50% of guests who RSVP for a post-wedding brunch often don’t show up, according to Megan Grose, the owner of Brindle + Oak in Denver. If you want to say goodbye, let guests know you’ll be at a coffee shop or hanging out in the hotel lobby—but skip the formal event. You’ve already done enough!
Final Thoughts
It’s entirely possible to have a beautiful, memorable wedding without breaking the bank. By cutting costs where it matters, you can focus on what’s truly important: celebrating your love in a way that’s meaningful to you. Wedding experts agree—avoiding these common financial pitfalls can make your day both memorable and affordable.
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