Weddings can be incredibly expensive, which is why couples should find smart ways to save. These are effective ways to cut costs when you’re wedding planning:

Start With An Accurate Budget

The average cost of a wedding in the United States is $35,329. Weddings can be expensive which is why couples should come up with a realistic budget before they start wedding planning.

When you have a budget, you’ll have a clearer picture of what you can afford to spend on invitations or favors. You’ll be able to prioritize the things that matter to you the most. You’ll be able to save, use your budget wisely and avoid overspending.

Get Creative When Picking Your Venue

It’s likely that your venue will be your largest wedding day expense. On average couples spend $16,107 on venues. However, if you’re willing to think outside the box you could spend far less than that.

Instead of getting married at a winery or at a massive estate, look into hosting your wedding at a campground. Instead of booking a reception hall, rent out a local restaurant that has stunning decor! If your budget is really tight, you could even get married in a friend’s backyard. Finding an affordable venue could save you thousands or more.

Keep Business Local

Whether you’re purchasing flowers, hiring a photographer, or booking a limo, you’ll want to work with local businesses whenever possible. Keeping business within the community means you won’t have to cover shipping and travel expenses.

Beyond that, working with businesses that are in your community means you can take advantage of your personal relationships. If you have a friend that works as a bartender they might agree to work at your reception at a lowered rate. You may even be able to trade work with other businesses in exchange for a discount. Focus on local businesses when you’re exploring your options.

DIY When You Can

When possible, you’ll want to cut wedding costs by doing things yourself! Instead of paying for expensive centerpieces why not make your own? Rather than spend hundreds or more on invitations, you could design your own and print them out at home.

You should be aware of your limits when you’re taking a DIY approach. For example, if you don’t know how to sew, you shouldn’t attempt to make your own wedding dress! However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, you can make a lot of wedding supplies at home.

It’s smart to cut costs when you’re planning a wedding, but you should be willing to splurge on certain things. Here’s what the pros say you should never cut corners on:

• Your wedding dress – Brides deserve to feel beautiful in their wedding dress. Set aside money for the dress of your dreams. Have it professionally altered so that it fits you like a glove.
• Food – Your guests deserve to enjoy a great meal at your wedding! Make sure everyone is well-fed.
• Music – Music is the primary source of entertainment at a wedding. Whether you book a DJ or hire a band, give your guests a reason to hit the dance floor.
• Photography – Long after your wedding is over, you’ll be able to look back at the pictures of your special day. Hire a photographer that does excellent work.