According to Easy Weddings, the average of cost a wedding is $34,715*, when thinking about the cost of living in Australia right now, you might be considering how you can spend less but still have a beautiful wedding.
Your wedding day is a significant milestone in your life, and while it's natural to want a grand celebration, it's also important to stay within your means. Planning a budget wedding doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing anything; it's about making thoughtful choices to create a memorable day that reflects you and your partner without breaking the bank. Here's a few ideas to help you plan a beautiful budget wedding;
1. Set Your Priorities
Before diving into the planning process, sit down with your partner and discuss your wedding priorities. Determine what aspects of the wedding are most important to you both. Is it the venue, the photography, the food, or the overall ambiance? Once you have a clear understanding of your priorities, you can allocate your budget accordingly.
2. Create a Realistic Budget
Start by setting a clear budget for your wedding. Consider your financial situation and decide on a reasonable amount that you're comfortable spending. Break down the budget into categories such as venue, catering, attire, decor, photography, entertainment, and more. This will help you keep track of your expenses and avoid overspending.
3. Choose the Right Venue
The choice of venue can significantly impact your budget. Opt for locations that offer both ceremony and reception spaces to minimize travel and rental costs. Consider non-traditional venues like parks, community centers, or even your own or a friend's backyard for a unique and cost-effective setting.
4. Simplify Invitations
Embrace digital invitations to save money on printing and postage. Use tools like Canva to easily create your own invitations that suit your personality. Try creating a wedding website to share important details with your guests, including the itinerary, accommodation options, and gift preferences. You may also consider ditching physical RSVPs and opt to receive responses via text so save on printing and postage.
5. DIY Decorations
Get creative with your wedding decorations by embracing DIY projects. Involve friends and family in crafting centerpieces, table settings, and other decor items. Using candles, fairy lights, and fresh flowers can create a romantic atmosphere without the hefty price tag.
6. Budget-Friendly Attire
When it comes to attire, consider shopping for wedding dresses and suits during sales or at outlets. You can also explore second-hand stores or online marketplaces for dresses only worn once and half the price. Bridesmaids and groomsmen can wear outfits they already own or and simply coordinate colours.
7. Catering on a Budget
Catering is a crucial part of the wedding. Consider buffet-style or family-style catering instead of plated meals. For dessert, try alternatives like a dessert bar or a simple wedding cake. For drinks catering, a BYO (alcohol) package can provide you with everything you need for a bar setup, bartenders, glassware and a mobile bar, and you just supply your own alcohol.
8. Capture Moments Creatively
Photography is a key element of your wedding, so ensure you allocate a portion of your budget for it. Look for photographers who offer customizable packages that suit your needs. Consider hiring a photographer for a shorter duration, focusing on the ceremony and essential moments.
9. Entertainment Options
Instead of a live band, which can be costly, consider alternatives like a DJ or even creating playlists yourself. If you have musically talented friends, ask them to perform during the reception. This not only adds a personal touch but also helps you save on entertainment costs.
Planning a budget wedding requires some creative thinking, but you can still create a wedding that is beautiful and memorable and also financially responsible.
Boss Bar Hire is a drinks catering business servicing Melbourne and Victoria. View our flexible packages for all your mobile bar and drinks needs.
*Easy Weddings survey of 3,500 engaged and recently married couples (2020-22).