As a planner
living in Southern California I have worked with brides with varying budgets
all over the place. Since the economic
downturn in 2008 many families are looking for budget friendly options. I firmly believe that no matter what the
budget, every couple deserves a gorgeous wedding and budget friendly does not
equal “cheap” looking. Here are some
tips that we have picked up and shared with our clients.
5 ways to
save:
- 1. Low or No-Cost Venue Option: Many parks offer an affordable event fee for weddings under 200 people, some come with gazebos, or fountain backdrops that offer natural beauty. The beach, the beach is always a favorite however some cities have rules and restrictions but are usually very affordable and always beautiful. Having your wedding at a family member or friends house is also an affordable option as well, however you will want to do a cost break down between a venue of your choice and having a wedding at a home as the total cost of event rentals and vendors can cost as much as an all inclusive venue location. It’s best to do your homework.
- 2. Off Season Date: Yes there is a real “Wedding Season”, here in Southern California with our mild weather wedding season can pretty much be 10 months out of the year. However, a lot of venues have “peak” booking months which have their “peak” pricing as well. Choosing a wedding date during the “off peak” or slow months saves money, as well as choosing any day other than Saturday which is the most expensive day to get married. Choosing a Friday or Sunday, while may not work for everyone, certainly makes a big difference in being budget friendly.
- 3. Time of Day or Night: The time of day or evening makes a difference when selecting a wedding reception. An evening wedding on a Saturday is the most expensive, but choosing a Friday afternoon or evening wedding is more affordable or if you must have a Saturday, a mid-morning wedding is great with a brunch or lunch reception. Brunch reception menus or even lunch are the least costly and you can still have some fun, and cake is always appropriate.
- 4. Select a location that is all inclusive or has dual purpose: Gotta love an “all-in-one” option. Booking a location that serves as both your ceremony and reception is preferred by everyone, even guests. Booking your ceremony and reception in one place saves not only money, but also headaches and reducing extra logistics, costs, contracts, contacts and so on. Some venues have in house vendors for you as well, this saves some money and headache I planning and execution of the event.
- 5 . Choose Natural Beauty: Choosing a location for either your ceremony or reception or even both is also a great budget friendly option. Perfect example…. A community garden or botanical garden is an amazing location with natural beauty all around you. Floral decorations can be a big expense in a wedding, especially fresh florals. Choosing a garden as your location is a great way to be budget friendly, just make sure to have a back-up in case of rain, and keep your guests comfort in mind with outdoor temperatures.
