Wedding debt is a real problem for couples these days. According to The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in 2017 was $33,391. And that’s just the average! If you’re planning to have a more elaborate wedding, your costs could be much higher.
The good news is that you can prevent wedding debt from ruining your big day. Here are eight simple tips:
1. Have a Realistic Budget and Stick to It
One of the best ways to prevent wedding debt is to have a realistic budget and stick to it. This may mean being creative and finding cheaper options for venues or alternative methods for catering. It may also involve making difficult decisions, like cutting down your guest list or deciding not to have a DJ. But in the end, keeping your spending in check will save you stress and prevent excessive debt. And remember—what truly matters are the memories and love shared with your loved ones, not how much you spent on your wedding day. So stay within budget and enjoy celebrating your marriage without the stress of financial burden.
2. Choose an Affordable Venue
Don’t feel pressured to splurge on a fancy ballroom or beachfront property. Consider hosting the ceremony and reception in a friend’s backyard, local park, or community center. These venues may not have all the bells and whistles, but they can still offer a beautiful and special backdrop for your big day. Plus, you’ll have more money left over for other important details like the dress, flowers, food, and entertainment, and you’ll start married life with less debt.
3. DIY As Much as Possible
DIYing can involve creating your own invitations and thank-you cards, making favors or decorations, or even hosting the event in your backyard. It may take extra time and creativity, but the payoff can be huge. You’ll save money, and adding a personal touch can make the day all the more meaningful. So before booking that expensive venue or hiring a pricey caterer, consider what DIY options you have.
4. Shop Around for the Best Deals on Catering, Flowers, and Rentals
Be sure to do your research and compare prices from different vendors. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for discounts, as every little bit can add up. The key is to prioritize what’s most important to you and plan accordingly within your budget. Don’t feel tied down to any one vendor—be willing to compare prices and negotiate for discounts. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box—get creative with DIY centerpieces or opt for a smaller, more intimate wedding.
5. Limit Guest List to Those Who Are Truly Important to You
Take a moment to think about who you really want to share this day with. Is that close friends and family members who have been by your side for years or distant relatives you only see at weddings and funerals? Don’t be afraid to trim down the guest list and invite the people who matter the most.
6. Skip the Pricey Wedding Favors
While pricey wedding favors might seem like a nice touch, they’ll probably just get left behind on the tables anyway. Instead, consider personalizing your guests’ experience with unique table settings or a thoughtful handwritten note at each place setting. Focus on creating memories instead of material trinkets, and you’ll have a stress-free wedding that won’t leave you drowning in debt afterward.
7. Rent Instead of Buying Everything You Need
Before you sign that contract or put something on your registry, there’s one thing to keep in mind: can you rent it instead of buying it? From the dress to the catering equipment to the venue itself, there are often rental options that can save you a ton of money. Renting instead of buying will prevent wedding debt, and it means less stuff for you to worry about storing or selling afterward. So before making those wedding purchases, take a step back and ask yourself if you could rent it instead.
8. Ask Family and Friends if They Can Help With the Big Day
Planning a wedding all on your own is a huge task. Asking for assistance helps lighten the financial burden and adds a personal touch to your big day. So don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. Your loved ones will likely be honored that you want them involved in such an important celebration.
Weddings can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. By following a few simple tips, you can save money on your big day without sacrificing anything important. Start by setting a realistic budget and sticking to it. Then, use the rest of these tips to save some money on your wedding! With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.
