Planning a wedding on a small budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or joy. Thoughtful and smart choices can help you create a beautiful, memorable day without overspending.
This guide will show you how to plan a budget-friendly wedding—from setting a realistic budget to making smart decisions on venue, catering, and décor.
By focusing on what matters most, like keeping the guest list small, finding affordable options, and using DIY touches, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. With some creativity, you’ll achieve a special day to remember.
Let’s get straight to the point.
With careful choices and creative solutions, planning a wedding on a small budget is possible. Start by setting a realistic budget and prioritising key expenses like the venue and catering.
To reduce costs, keep the guest list small and choose affordable or non-traditional venues. Opt for DIY décor, seasonal flowers, and digital invitations.
Consider borrowing or renting items, hiring newer photographers, or enlisting help from family and friends. Focusing on what truly matters allows you to plan a beautiful and memorable wedding without overspending.
Planning A Budget-Friendly Wedding
Planning a wedding on a small budget means you can maintain quality and enjoyment. With thoughtful planning, creativity, and smart decision-making, you can still have the beautiful day you’ve envisioned without overspending.
Here’s a guide to help you organise a memorable wedding on a small budget.
1. Set A Realistic Budget
Start by setting a clear, realistic budget. Sit down with your partner to determine how much you can spend overall.
Identify key areas where you’d like to allocate more money—like the venue, food, or photography—while being prepared to cut back on other areas.
A budget planner or template can help you track expenses and avoid overspending. Ensure you set aside a small contingency fund for any unexpected costs that may arise.
2. Keep The Guest List Small
One of the quickest ways to save money is by reducing the guest list. A smaller guest list means fewer mouths to feed and a reduced need for a large venue.
Focus on inviting close family members and friends who matter most to you. This creates a more intimate atmosphere while significantly lowering your costs for catering, seating, and invitations.
If you want to celebrate with a larger group, consider hosting a casual event, such as a post-wedding gathering, at a later date. You can include more people without inflating your wedding day expenses.
3. Choose An Affordable Venue
Venue costs can take much of your budget, but affordable alternatives exist. Non-traditional venues such as local parks, backyards, or community halls are often cheaper than traditional wedding spaces.
Outdoor settings like beaches or gardens provide natural beauty, reducing the need for costly decorations. If you prefer a traditional venue, booking during the off-peak season or on a weekday can also reduce costs. Many venues offer discounts for non-weekend or off-season weddings.
4. DIY Décor And Flowers
Doing things yourself is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your wedding. Whether it’s creating centrepieces, table settings, or invitations, DIY projects can significantly cut costs.
Craft stores sell plenty of affordable materials, and many online tutorials guide you through the process. However, flowers can be expensive, especially if they’re out of season.
Opt for local, seasonal flowers or incorporate greenery, which is both cost-effective and trendy. DIY floral arrangements or using potted plants as décor are other great ways to reduce expenses.
5. Limit Catering Costs
Catering is often one of the largest expenses for a wedding, but there are ways to manage costs without sacrificing quality.
A buffet or family-style meal is often cheaper than a formal sit-down dinner. Consider having a cocktail-style reception with appetisers instead of a full meal.
Another option is to hire a food truck or have a barbecue, which offers a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. Limiting the alcohol selection to beer, wine, and a signature cocktail can also lower bar costs.
6. Save On Invitations
Traditional paper invitations can be expensive when you factor in printing, design, and postage costs. One alternative is to send digital invitations, which are both budget-friendly and eco-friendly.
Customisable templates online offer elegant designs for a fraction of the cost. If you prefer printed invitations, consider using DIY templates and printing them yourself.
To keep costs low, choose simple designs and standard paper. Hand-delivering invitations to nearby guests is another way to reduce postage fees.
7. Borrow Or Rent Instead Of Buying
When it comes to items you’ll only use once, like decorations or attire, consider borrowing or renting rather than buying.
Wedding rental companies offer furniture, lighting, and décor at much lower costs than buying new. Even attire, such as veils or jewellery, can be borrowed from friends or family.
You might also be able to borrow décor or serving items from friends who’ve recently hosted their weddings or events. This can add a sentimental touch to your day while decreasing costs.
8. Simplify Your Wedding Cake
Wedding cakes can be expensive, particularly for larger designs with intricate details. To simplify, opt for a single-tier cake with fresh flowers or greenery.
Consider having a small cake for cutting and serving guests a more affordable sheet cake. Another popular option is offering alternative desserts, like cupcakes, which can be both cost-effective and a fun way for guests to enjoy a variety of treats.
9. Find Affordable Wedding Attire
Wedding attire can be a significant cost, but there are many ways to save while still looking great. Consider buying a pre-loved or sample wedding dress, which is often much cheaper than buying a new one.
Many bridal shops offer discounts on off-the-rack gowns, and some online retailers sell stunning dresses at affordable prices. For the groom, renting a suit or wearing one already owned is a practical option.
Bridesmaids and groomsmen can also save money by coordinating colours and wearing their outfits rather than buying new ones.
10. Hire A New Photographer
Professional wedding photography can be expensive, but you can save by hiring a talented, newer photographer. Many newer photographers offer discounted rates while still delivering high-quality work as they build their portfolios.
Another option is to hire a photographer for part of the day, such as the ceremony and formal portraits, and have a friend capture candid moments at the reception. This allows you to get great photos without paying for a full-day package.
11. Keep Decorations Simple
Regarding wedding décor, simple can be just as beautiful as elaborate. Focus on key areas, such as centrepieces or ceremony backdrops, and keep the rest minimal.
Use candles, greenery, or simple flower arrangements to create an elegant yet affordable look. Choosing a naturally beautiful venue also helps reduce the need for extra decorations.
For example, an outdoor setting with lush greenery might need little additional décor to look stunning.
12. Opt for Seasonal Flowers
Flowers can be a beautiful addition to any wedding, but choosing locally sourced, seasonal flowers is more affordable than importing exotic blooms. Seasonal flowers are typically fresher, too, as they haven’t travelled long distances.
To save even more, consider using flowers sparingly, such as for the bridal bouquet or centrepieces. You can also incorporate non-floral elements, like candles or fabric, to fill out your décor.
13. Use Digital Invitations
Traditional paper invitations can be costly when you factor in printing and postage. Digital invitations are an affordable and eco-friendly alternative. Many websites offer elegant and customisable templates that you can send out via email.
Digital invitations also make tracking RSVPs and sending updates to guests easy. The money saved on invitations can then be used for other aspects of the wedding.
14. Keep Entertainment Simple
You don’t need to hire a full band or expensive DJ to have a fun reception. Consider using a playlist and renting some speakers.
You can also ask a musically inclined friend to perform during the ceremony or reception, adding a personal touch to your event. Simple entertainment options, like a photo booth or lawn games, are affordable ways to keep your guests entertained without overspending.
15. Enlist The Help Of Family And Friends
Family and friends can often offer their talents as a wedding gift. Whether it’s baking, photography, or crafting, involving loved ones can help you save money and make the day even more meaningful.
Be sure to ask for help well in advance and make sure it’s something they’re comfortable doing. This way, your wedding will feel even more special with contributions from those you care about.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding on a small budget involves making thoughtful choices and focusing on what matters most to you and your partner.
By keeping your guest list small, choosing an affordable venue, and incorporating DIY elements, you can save money while creating a memorable day.
With creativity, smart spending, and prioritisation, you can have the wedding of your dreams without the stress of overspending.
FAQs About Wedding
How Much Time Do You Need To Plan A Small Wedding?
If you plan a minimalistic wedding with a small guest list, you should still allow yourself two to three months to plan the wedding. Your dress might need to be altered, or the caterer might be booked for several months.
How Many Guests Is A Small Wedding?
Typically, a small wedding accommodates about 50 people—that’s 25 people on each side. Consider whether you want to include ‘plus ones’ or just individuals and whether this extends to your close work colleagues or none.
What Is A Quick Wedding Called?
Eloping is a marriage conducted without the knowledge of the couple’s family and friends, particularly their parents. Typically, those who elope only have a ceremony and do not host a reception or celebration.
What Is The Cheapest Month To Get Married?
The cheapest months to get married are January, March, April, and November. If you want to save money on your wedding ceremony, avoid the peak summer wedding season in favour of one of these less popular dates.
What Does A Small Wedding Consist Of?
These numbers may vary depending on who you’re speaking with. Still, a small wedding typically includes 50 people or under, a medium wedding has a guest list of 50-150 guests, and a large wedding has over 150 attendees.
