Your wedding day will be one of – if not, the – most important and memorable days of your life. Perhaps you’ve been dreaming about it since you were small, or now that you’ve found “The One,” it’s all you have been thinking about. Either way, or something else, now that you’ve decided to get hitched, it is time to plan for the big day.

If money were no object, your every wedding wish would be doable. You’d have all details done to perfection…no matter the price tag. It would be television-worthy, and your guests would be wowed.

Can you still have such a special affair if you’re on a budget? Of course, it is possible, especially when you spend strategically without feeling like you’ve skimped. I love a good deal as much as a lavish wedding. That’s why these four ideas are the perfect combination for any couple who’d rather save their dough for down the road rather than go broke on the “I dos.”

 

On-Point Attire

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brides and grooms tend to go overboard on wedding attire. But there is no need for designer dresses and Oscars-style tuxes. There are plenty of options out there that are far less expensive and still look like a million bucks.

Seek out samples rather than a brand new item. The discounts are dramatic, and you’ll get the look you’ve been after. Consider wearing family heirlooms (i.e., perhaps your mother’s wedding gown) which not only save money but have an emotional component too. Shop off-season and seek out sales, and think of stores that aren’t necessarily tailored for weddings exclusively. You can find wedding-appropriate attire online, at the mall, or even on Etsy. *

You can also rent your wedding dress, tux, and even bridesmaid/groomsmen attire. You’ll be able to choose something outside your budget because the rental fee will be far less than purchasing a new piece to own. See more money-saving rental ideas below.

With a little searching, you’ll find something classy that you’ll feel comfortable in. You don’t have to break the bank to be beautiful.

 

DIY Décor

 

 

 

 

 

 

Couples spend a fortune on invitations, flowers, centerpieces, place cards, take-home gifts, and so on. Things add up in a snap, and before long, you’ve blown your budget…and then some.

The crafty types can do projects to prep for the wedding, with their own artistry and personal touches. Get supplies at the store and make it a hands-on experience. It’s a nice way to see how well you work alongside your soon-to-be spouse too.

If you’re not particularly talented in this area, check out instructional YouTube videos or find some friends and family members willing to help out.

You can work this angle for food too, making your wedding a homemade feast. Prepare large portions at home to heat up at the venue. Make it buffet-style so everyone can sample each DIY dish. If you know someone who can decorate a wedding cake, it’s the ultimate cherry on top.

 

Rent for A Reasonable Fee

 

 

 

 

 

 

Party rental businesses are booming, and weddings fit right into their format. When I produced a wedding-themed movie, Jumping the Broom, we made use of some amazing rental items, creating scenes that were nothing short of spectacular.

From table linens to wall art, sign-in boards to faux bouquets, you can rent practically anything and have everything you’ve ever wanted in a wedding. When would you need this stuff again anyway?

 

Keep It Small

 

 

 

 

 

 

While you may want to invite the world to your wedding, more guest means more money. If you pare things down and only invite those closest to you, you’ll have an intimate affair at a fraction of the cost.

Now that we’re keeping gatherings to a limit due to social distancing and so forth, it’s sensible to be safer by keeping your head count to a minimum. The low-key aspect is easier to manage and makes for fond memories with a select group of special people.

If you want to celebrate further with more people, host a spacious backyard BBQ when you return from your honeymoon. Explain that you wanted a small ceremony, but parties are better when they’re with all the people you love.

Congrats and best wishes on your wedding!