Wedding budget: Tips for saving without sacrificing your desires

By Vanessa from Vany’s Weddings

Planning a wedding is a magical moment, but it can also put a strain on your wallet. The good news is that it is entirely possible to achieve your desires without blowing your budget. With a few smart tips and a little planning, you can create a chic wedding that suits you, while saving money. Ready to find out how?

1. Define your priorities

• Why? Not everything is equally important in a marriage. What matters is to focus your budget on what is essential for you.
• How to do it?
  • Make a list of your desires (dress, location, photographer, music, etc.).
  • Rank them in order of importance.
  • Allocate the majority of your budget to your main priorities and be more flexible with the rest.

2. Set a clear and precise budget

• Why? Without a detailed budget, you risk spending more than planned.
• How to do it?
  • Use an Excel spreadsheet or online tool to track each expense item.
  • Allow a margin of 10-15% for unforeseen circumstances.
  • Agree with your partner on the maximum amount not to exceed.

3. Choose a strategic date

• Why? Prices for locations and providers may vary depending on the season and day of the week.
• How to do it?
  • Opt for an off-season date (fall, winter) to reduce costs.
  • Consider a weekday or Sunday wedding, often cheaper than Saturday.

4. Limit your guest list

• Why? The more guests there are, the more the catering, venue and decoration budget increases.
• How to do it?
  • Focus on the people who matter most to you.
  • Make an A list (essential) and a B list (optional) to refine if necessary.

5. Opt for DIY (Do It Yourself)

• Why? Making some items yourself can cut costs while adding a personal touch.
• How to do it?
  • Create your invitations, menus or place cards with tools like Canva.
  • Make simple decorations like centerpieces using dried flowers or candles.
  • Involve your loved ones for manual projects.

6. Reduce decorating costs

• Why? Beautiful decor doesn’t have to be expensive.
• How to do it?
  • Rent decorative items rather than buying them.
  • Uses natural elements such as foliage or local and seasonal flowers.
  • Favor places that are already aesthetic, which do not need a lot of decoration.

7. Be strategic with providers

• Why? Provider prices vary greatly, but there are ways to save.
• How to do it?
  • Negotiates rates or requests custom options.
  • Hires emerging talents (photographer, music group) who often offer attractive prices.
  • Groups services: some providers offer packs including several options (DJ + entertainment, for example).

8. Simplify your menu

• Why? Catering is often one of the biggest expenses.
• How to do it?
  • Choose a buffet instead of table service to reduce costs.
  • Opt for local and seasonal dishes.
  • Limit the choice of drinks: one or two wine options and a glass of champagne are enough.

9. Favor alternatives for outfit

• Why? Wedding dresses and suits can be very expensive.
• How to do it?
  • Loue ta tenue ou achète-la d’occasion.
  • Search for local designers or ready-to-wear collections.
  • Accessorize a simple dress to give it a unique look.

10. Limit extras

• Why? Small, unnecessary expenses can add up quickly.
• How to do it?
  • Opt for a digital guestbook instead of several keepsakes.
  • Simplify gifts for guests by offering small homemade bags.
  • Stay focused on the essential elements for you.

Conclusion :

With these tips, you can plan a stunning wedding while staying on budget. Remember, the main thing is to create a unique moment that reflects your love story. If you want to go further and benefit from step-by-step support, discover my La Mariée SUPER Organiséeprogram. I’m here to help you make your wedding an unforgettable day without stress or excess spending!