How to Save Money for a Wedding

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to managing your budget. The good news? There are plenty of creative ways to save money on a wedding without sacrificing the beauty and special moments of your big day. Whether you’re planning an elopement or a micro wedding, these 11 tips will help you figure out how to minimize wedding costs and focus on what matters most. From finding a budget-friendly venue to picking the right vendors, here’s how to save money for a wedding while still having the day of your dreams! 

1. Choose a Venue that Helps You Save Money on a Wedding

Location is everything!

One of the most significant ways to save on a wedding is by selecting an affordable venue. National Parks like White Sands or Zion offer breathtaking backdrops for your ceremony at a fraction of the cost of traditional venues! You could also consider your own backyard or a boutique hotel like El Rey Court in Santa Fe for a cozy, intimate setting that won’t break the bank. These locations offer stunning views for your wedding photos without the hefty price tag!

2. Book Your Vendors Early to Minimize Wedding Costs

Booking your vendors early is a smart way to minimize wedding costs. By securing your photographer, caterer, or florist at least a year in advance, you can lock in current rates before prices go up in the New Year! Also, planning ahead gives you time to compare vendors and find the best deals without sacrificing quality.

3. Keep the Guest List Small for Big Savings

One of the simplest ways to save on a wedding is to trim the guest list. A smaller, more intimate celebration allows you to focus on the people who truly matter to you, cutting costs on catering, seating, and venue size. By keeping the guest count small, you’ll be able to save money for your wedding and splurge on what matters most, whether that’s a stunning venue or dream photographer (btw, I would love to document your destination wedding or elopement!) 

4. Go Thrifting for Wedding Decor to Save Money

I love a thrifty couple! Shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces for decor is one of the best ways to save money on a wedding. Repurposing vintage finds can add a personal and stylish touch to your day, all while saving money and reducing waste. With a bit of creativity and DIY, your thrifted items will look as good as new! 

5. Incorporate “Something Borrowed” to Save on Wedding Accessories

Adding sentimental value to your wedding doesn’t have to come with a cost. Ask your loved ones if they have special accessories from their own weddings that you can borrow. This simple gesture can save money on a wedding while adding extra meaning to your day.

6. Host a Brunch Wedding to Minimize Costs

A fun, unexpected way to minimize wedding costs is to host a brunch wedding. Opting for a morning ceremony opens up unique ways to save on food and drinks—imagine a cute coffee cart instead of a bar! Brunch weddings are not only affordable but also a great way to add a playful and relaxed vibe to your celebration – it’s a win-win! 

7. Ask Friends and Family for Help to Save on Wedding Services

If you’re lucky enough to have talented friends or family members, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether they’re skilled at floral design, baking, or photography, including them in your wedding can be a great way to save money! 

8. Elopements: A Budget-Friendly Way to Tie the Knot

Considering an elopement? Eloping is a wonderful way to save money on a wedding while keeping the focus on your relationship. Today’s elopements are versatile and can be customized to fit your vision—whether it’s an intimate ceremony in a National Park, a backyard celebration, or a stylish destination elopement. You can even include your family or close friends to make it more meaningful!

9. Create a Clear Budget to Save Money for a Wedding

Creating a budget is essential when figuring out how to save money for a wedding. It helps you allocate funds to what matters most and prevents overspending. 

Whether your priority is the venue, photography, or wedding day looks, having a clear outline will guide your decisions and help you minimize wedding costs.

10. Choose a Loved One to Officiate and Save Money

Want to save on officiant fees? Consider asking a friend or family member to officiate your wedding. They can easily get ordained online (in most states!), making the ceremony even more personal while saving you money on wedding costs.

11. Pick an Off-Peak Date to Maximize Savings

One of the best ways to save on a wedding is to choose an off-peak date. Many venues and vendors offer discounted rates for weekday weddings or during the off-season. By selecting an off-peak date, you can save money on your wedding while still getting the experience you want. 

By incorporating these simple strategies, you can plan a beautiful wedding that reflects your love and personality without breaking the bank! 

From choosing a National Park as your venue to hosting a brunch wedding or eloping, there are countless ways to save money on a wedding. Remember, it’s all about focusing on what’s most important to you and your partner and making choices that bring your vision to life—without the added stress of overspending! 

Want to see more of my destination wedding and elopements? Head to my Instagram and let me know which one is your favorite! Oh, and if you’re a Pinterest girlie, it would mean the world to me if you saved this blog to your wedding/elopement board! Simply hover over the image and press, “save”. 

Destination Wedding and Elopement Photographer | Queanna Lynn Photography

Hey there! I’m Queanna, a Destination Wedding and Elopement photographer that is based in New Mexico. I am always up for an adventure out of state! I’m all about capturing the raw and authentic moments that leave a lasting impression in your memory. Think we would be a great fit together? Get in touch, here!