When you’re planning your day, everything comes down to your wedding expenses. Whether it’s $5,000 or $50,000, most couples find that they don’t have the means to splurge on everything that they want at their wedding. At the same time, there are some things that you should consider spending extra to get the best quality. Read on for ideas on where to splurge and where to save.
All photos by Kam Goodrich Photography, and view the full event here.
SPLURGE: Your photographer
In ten years, you won’t have much left from your wedding besides your marriage – and your wedding photos. The pictures that you take on your wedding day will become a forever keepsake, so it’s worth going the extra mile to ensure that they’re of the very best quality.
SAVE: Your photo booth
While these are certainly a hot commodity and now come bearing social media sharing qualities, those on a budget should save their money and skip the professional version. If a photo booth is a must-have, consider going the DIY route with a patterned background and some funky cut-out props on sticks.
SPLURGE: Your catering
Ask a bunch of wedding guests what the most memorable part of the event is and most will mention the quality of the food. Delicious food is a must at any wedding, plus the caterers that cost a bit more often come with more experience and are more adaptable in new situations. Some may even include certain rentals, which will save you more in the long run.
SAVE: Your cake
While the cake cutting is a major part of the wedding reception, the cake itself is sometimes seen as an after-thought. Guests have usually filled up on their dinner and will stick to only one piece of cake, especially if you have other desserts available. Consider having cupcakes in lieu of a cake, or get a small cake for the cutting and have your caterer serve a sheet cake to guests. Trust me – they won’t know the difference!
SPLURGE: Your DJ
On your wedding day, your DJ is responsible for keeping the flow of the event and making sure people are having a good time and getting on the dance floor. They also act as an MC, so you want to be sure your DJ is one who is personable and charismatic. Don’t cut your wedding expenses for a DJ who is lackluster and unexperienced!
SAVE: Alcohol
Alcohol can add up to be a major expenditure at weddings, especially if you plan on having an open bar. While a few drinks certainly liven up the dance floor, consider limiting the bar to beer and wine and perhaps a signature cocktail. While you’re at it, skip the champagne toast and stick with a drink-in-hand toast – your guests won’t mind! You can also save big by getting an ABC license for the day and purchasing your own alcohol. Anything that isn’t opened can even be returned after the wedding.
Planning a wedding is all about balance – find a happy medium between splurging and saving to ensure that you stick to your budget. Create a list of your priorities and wedding expenses and stick to it!
Amanda Zack is a wedding PR specialist with OFD Consulting, based in Richmond, VA. She also serves as a Public Relations adjunct professor at her alma mater, Virginia Commonwealth University.
