Brides on a Budget - Focus on This!

Not all brides have an unlimited budget for their wedding day and not all brides can hire a wedding planner. When you can hire a planner, make sure they understand your the red line of your budget (how much "cha-ching" can you sustain!), and where there is wiggle room.

​Make sure she or he knows what your priorities are. If YOU are the wedding planner of your big day, and you're watching every dime that has been set aside, then consider keeping these rules in mind as you focus on the day and what you want the MOST!​

Focus on ​People Over Wedding Perfection

A small group of adoring friends and family brings plenty love & joy.

Keep the guest list intimate. Your guest list doesn't need to be a cast of thousands. A smaller guest list allows for more quality time with loved ones and lowers costs for catering, seating, and favors.

Invest in a skilled photographer or videographer. Long after the day is over, these are the memories you'll treasure most. And consider assigning a close friend or two the task of orbiting around during the reception grabbing photos. They aren't responsible for capturing the posed shots, of course, just the fun editorial images that will make for a great and memorable slideshow years later.

Focus on ​Meaningful Moments on Your Wedding Day

Grab your closest friends for a private moment and toast!

Create a heartfelt ceremony, since this is the most important part of the wedding day. Personalize vows or include meaningful traditions that may have been part of past family weddings.

​Allow music to work for you. Choose a playlist or live musician who can set the mood during key moments like the ceremony, first dance, and reception. We are all moved by music, and the right piece of music or the right song can bring tears or a sense of occasion that words sometimes cannot.

​One Standout Element

Consider all white or all one color. These large round balloon lanterns make a statement.

If not a wall of flowers, consider a signature arch or inventive backdrop.

Pick one area to splurge on that reflects your personality or values.

• A stunning dress
• A signature floral arrangement
• A standout venue or backdrop
• A decorative element, like balloons, lanterns or lighting

​Guests will often remember one or two standout details more than an overabundance of decor.

Consider DIY Where It Counts in Your WEdding Budget

Hand-craft you invitations and favors,  because items like these are affordable and can be personalized.

​Create simple yet elegant decor. DIY decorations like candles, greenery, or fairy lights can transform a space without a hefty price tag.

Consider a buffet, potluck, or DIY dessert bar for a personal touch and cost savings. Guests love knowing that you've shared your great-grandmothers chocolate pie recipe. You could even share a handwritten recipe card as a favor.

Keep your wedding cake small, & combine it with homemade cakes, pies & other treats.

​Delegate and Simplify if You Have a Wedding Budget Cap

Ask for help from talented friends or family members who can bake, decorate, or perform music. If this is their profession, be mindful that they are paid for this work. This IS their work. If, however, they are amateurs willing to pitch in, then it might be worth the ask. Just remember to be respectful. 

​Simplify the timeline or combine events. Consider hosting the ceremony and reception at the same venue, and if you have a relative or friend with a gorgeous home, barn, beach house or backyard garden, see if they'll consider hosting for you.

Focus on the Experience, Not the Material Details

Prioritize what will create a joyful, relaxed atmosphere — good food, a fun playlist, and time to connect with guests.

​A great attitude goes a long way; your happiness will be what everyone remembers most.

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