Your wedding day; the biggest, the best, and the most special day of your entire life. A day where groups of family and friends come together to celebrate your union and love. A day that will help create memories that last a lifetime. Sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it?

The wedding industry is a huge one. It is estimated that around 60 billion dollars are spent per year in the US alone on weddings. If you’re planning a wedding, that number might scare you a bit! However, there are some great wedding tips and hacks to help you keep the price low while still creating those special memories. 

The Best or Most Expensive Day of Your Life?

The average wedding cost across the United States is around $34,000. This figure includes jewelry but does not include any honeymoon expenses. Now, everyone knows they want their wedding to be the most special day ever, but does it have to be that expensive?

The best day of your life doesn’t need to be the most expensive one. If you’ve got huge savings to throw at a wedding then great! Go for it! If, on the other hand, you’d rather keep expenses down, read on for the top tips on how to not break the bank while still having the most incredible day.

Flexibility can Save Thousands

Before we get into the top six hacks, a quick note on flexibility. Most people want to have weddings at the same time. Something like a sunny June Saturday afternoon will attract far more interest than a Friday in October. If you’re willing to be flexible, you’ll be able to save money on just about every part of the wedding. 

Take wedding bands, for example. These groups are geared up for performing all year round, but, of course, they are busiest in the summertime and on weekends. If you are willing to host your wedding on a weekday evening in the fall, you’d likely have bands fighting to take that spot, driving prices down. If you commit to a Saturday in the summertime, you’ll be paying the absolute premium price as you fight with every other weekend wedding planner in the state! 

The same applies to just about everything else from caterers through to venues, so if you can, be flexible and save yourself some cash. You’ll get the same great service at a fraction of the price!

1. Look for Vouchers, Always!

There’s no shame in using vouchers for wedding planning; why would there be? When the word ‘wedding’ is added to just about anything, the price goes up. So, why shouldn’t you hunt for deals!? Shopping at department stores such as Kohl’s is one option, you’ll be able to save money by heading over to this page.Take bridesmaid’s dresses for example. A high street clothing voucher might mean you can walk straight into a store and pick up five awesome dresses for 15% off, instead of going to a wedding store and paying premium prices. Look for vouchers and use them wisely, you’ll be surprised at how much you can save across the board.

2. Used Dresses

This could be seen as taboo, too, but it doesn’t need to be! Think about it, wedding dresses are sold to brides for thousands of dollars, worn once, then often hung in a closet for 30 years. What’s the point in that? Instead of letting these dresses gather dust, many people choose to resell them. 

The benefit here is that you’re getting a dress for a tiny percentage of the regular price, while still finding something that makes you look and feel amazing. If it bothers you, you don’t need to tell anyone it was second-hand. As a bonus benefit, you’re also helping promote sustainable fashion!

3. Friends’ Favors

You’d probably be surprised at just how much your best friends will be willing to help you out with your wedding. You might know someone who DJs and will play for a few hours at your wedding as a favor, or, you may have a friend who can help source cheap decorations through work. If you have friends like these, utilize them! Ask them for favors in place of splashing out on wedding gifts, it will save you thousands on the day.

4. Local Catering Companies

One of the best ways to lower your budget is to look locally for catering options. Instead of hiring a national or state-wide private hire company, look for local family businesses or restaurants. Go and meet them in person and explain that you love their food and want it at your wedding. They’ll more than likely be thrilled to receive your offer and give you a great deal on your catering. 

5. Limit the Open Bar

A huge mistake people make is thinking that every drink at their wedding should be free. You’ve probably already splashed out on dinner and table wine for all of your guests, why should you pay thousands for their alcohol all night? Instead of doing this, opt for drinks vouchers or limited free bar choices. This can help stop the late-night drunken uncle ordering a double 25-year-old scotch at the bar for all of his friends, saving you a pretty penny on every round! 

6. Don’t Overdo the Flowers

Finally, wedding magazines and photoshoots are always adorned with the most beautiful flowers. It makes almost every bride or wedding planner think that this is the only way to make a wedding look perfect. Flowers are great, sure! But, there’s no need to have a huge bouquet on every table and in the hand of every bridesmaid. Instead, opt for minimal and beautiful. Simple, elegant displays and single roses for bridesmaids can still look gorgeous, while only costing a small amount.

Following these few tips will likely shave thousands off your wedding budget, saving you money for that dream honeymoon or house deposit! After all, you want your money to help start a life with your new bride or groom, rather than be broke after your wedding. Good luck with your wedding planning, whatever your budget may be.