A client writes in:
‘’Do you have any tips on how to organize a wedding on a budget? Me and my boyfriend are getting married next year, and we’re trying to find cheaper alternatives. Also, as we’re both in our early twenties and don’t have a lot to spend, we were hoping to have a small wedding.’’
Not everyone has the possibility to have the most luxurious wedding, with high-class catering services, a reception in a Plaza hotel and dozens of roses everywhere.
Therefore, we have created some great tips that will help you cut down on the cost of your wedding without diminishing your experience or that of your guests. As well as that, you can establish a more intimate and personalized wedding that really shows off the love between the two of you.
1. Minimal guest list
Although you might be tempted to invite everyone you know, you’ll be adding additional costs to your wedding. In this case, it’s better to invite just the closest people you know to make it more intimate and special. By minimizing your guest list, you will free up money to spend on other things to provide higher quality and more joyful experience for you and your guests.
2. D.I.Y projects
‘’Do it yourself’’ projects can be cheap and more personal. You can gather with family or friends and have some nice quality time doing projects that you will enjoy and making unforgettable memories. Here are some ideas for projects that you can create to save you some cash:
Make your own invitations 
With a quality home printer and some time, you can create classy invitations that have a touch of personalization.
We recommend that you check YouTube videos for inspiration, where you can see for yourself the craftsmanship behind designing and making invitations. Check out this video by TheSorryGirls for an in-depth tutorial on how to make some beautiful invitations.
Go minimal on the flowers 
You can get flower bouquets for some areas at the hall and for you to hold when walking down the Aisle, but otherwise go for artificial flowers for the rest of the space. This is a great alternative to spending a lot of money on flowers that will wilt shortly after the ceremony. It is likely that no one will even notice as nowadays, as you can find artificial flowers that look pretty realistic. Etsy is a great place to find different types of flowers for affordable prices.
OR another option is to pick flowers yourself. If you live near a forest you could take a nice fresh walk with your partner and collect some flowers to use, or maybe you know someone who has a garden with rose bush you can gather from to make your own bouquets the day before the ceremony.
Dining decorations 
You don’t have to have the most expensive silverware and decorations to create the appearance of a fancy dining hall. If you like being creative you can pretty much make anything look nice on a budget with the right combination of decorations.
TheSorryGirls have another great video for DIY table decor, and we have a fantastic Pinterest board full of inspiration. You could even have a go at making your own fairy light decorations, like these rustic twine spheres by ClaCali.
Or you could consider buying used decorations – either from people you know, or you can check different websites where recent brides often sell their decorations on sites like craigslist.org – this way you can save a bundle!
3. Hold the ceremony at home or outdoors
Renting a function hall or a building can be expensive, therefore a good option is having it at home (or your parent’s home). Another alternative could be a public park with a beautiful view. Just make sure you have permission and the necessary permits if you do choose either of these options.
4. Use your own stereo equipment
Instead of hiring a DJ, you could use your own stereo equipment if you have any at home or borrow some from a friend. You can easily create a playlist that features a few hours of your favorite songs, which is a great way to personalize the experience.
You can read this article that explains how to DJ a party using Spotify music.
5. Display ‘’vendor cards’’
You could display business cards for different vendors in exchange for a reduced rate. You can offer to advertise for the people that are providing you with different services in your big day.
6. Stock the bar yourself
Alcohol is a big expense when it comes to weddings. Therefore, when you’re deciding on a venue for your wedding, make sure that you can bring your own alcohol instead of it being provided as a service. (YOU WILL SAVE A LOT)!
Check out our Pinterest board for drink ideas to get inspired!
7. Pre-owned wedding dress
As we all know, wedding dresses are a big deal and almost every bride has imagined her dream dress, but what if this perfect dress will break the bank?
Why not go with a pre-owned dress?! It could be your mom’s, your grandma’s or even a stranger’s, but you could use it as a base and then redesign it to suit your style. Most tailors offer fitting services, or maybe you know someone who’s good with a sewing machine.
Alternatively, there are loads of websites that offer quality pre-owned dresses for a good price, such as preownedweddingdresses.com.
