Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and while it’s a significant event, it doesn’t have to come with an extravagant price tag. With some thoughtful planning and creativity, you can have a beautiful wedding without breaking the bank. Here are 10 savvy ways to save money on your wedding day in Central Illinois. What you choose to do with the leftover money is totally up to you, but if I were you, I’d opt for an epic honeymoon.
Affordable Floral Arrangements
Say “I do” to budget-friendly wedding flowers. There are several ways to have gorgeous flowers on your wedding day without taking out a loan. Check our Something Borrowed Blooms to rent your bouquet, bridesmaids bouquets, boutonnieres, and even your centerpieces, or consider silk or dried alternatives for your bouquet and decor. Choose in-season flowers and keep it very simple or opt for no florals for your wedding party. Instead of extravagant bouquets, opt for minimalist arrangements or even elegant non-floral alternatives like greenery, feather, or ribbons.
Bundle Services
Maximize savings by bundling services. Look for venues that offer inclusive packages, combining catering, décor, bar service, and even photography at a lower cost. At Complete Weddings + Events Central Illinois, the more you bundle the more you save! When you book us for two or more of our services, we will save you time, money, and energy. Contact us today and let us tackle your wedding to-do list. We offer photography, videography, photo booth rental, lighting, day-of coordination, and DJ services in Central Illinois/Peoria and the surrounding areas.
Simplify with No Cocktail Hour Food
Trim expenses by forgoing an elaborate cocktail hour spread. Instead, transition seamlessly from ceremony to reception, incorporating light appetizers during the main event. This not only streamlines your wedding costs but also maintains the flow of your celebration. Focus on the main meal, allowing guests to enjoy a more substantial dining experience.
Choose Off-Season Dates
Tying the knot outside of peak wedding season when venue prices are lower can lead to significant savings on your wedding. Many vendors offer discounts for weddings held on weekdays or during less popular months. So, be open to the idea of exploring unconventional dates, and you may find that the cost savings and unique ambiance make your wedding even more special. In the Central Illinois area, the months of April through October are going to be your most sought-after, and therefore your most expensive, with Saturdays in those months being the golden date that every couple wants. If you can save on your venue by picking a less busy date, it’ll allow you to get more of the things you WANT, not just the things you need.
Digital Invites
Save on paper and postage by opting for digital wedding invitations. Choose from a myriad of stylish designs, and effortlessly track RSVPs online. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces waste but also allows for easy updates and communication with your guests. Explore various platforms like GreenVelope that provide customizable digital invites to find the perfect design that complements your wedding style.
P.S. You can always order a few “sample” invites to send to grandparents, use in a Flat Lay photo on your wedding or just to have as a keepsake.
Embrace Vintage and Thrifted Decor
Add charm to your wedding with vintage and thrifted decorations. Scour local thrift stores, flea markets, or even Facebook Marketplace for unique, budget-friendly finds. Many cities have local wedding Facebook groups with past brides selling their gently-used wedding decor.
Opt for a Small Cake
Cut down on dessert costs by choosing a smaller wedding cake for the couple. Supplement with affordable sheet cakes for guests from Costco or your local grocery store, or consider trendy mini desserts for a delightful variety. This not only caters to diverse tastes but also allows for creative presentation options.
Keep the Guest List Intimate
Thoughtfully curating your guest list encourages a warm and personalized celebration, promoting genuine connections among attendees. With fewer plus-ones, you can create unique seating arrangements that foster interaction, ensuring everyone feels connected and valued. A smaller guest list means not only a more intimate celebration but also significant savings on catering, seating, and overall wedding expenses.
Skip Wedding Favors
Save money and reduce waste by skipping traditional wedding favors. While these small tokens can be charming, they often go unused or are quickly forgotten. Consider incorporating a personal touch, such as a heartfelt note or a custom thank-you message, expressing your gratitude for their presence.
DIY Decor
Engage in meaningful DIY projects that reflect your unique style and story as a couple. Explore crafting materials, repurpose items, or even involve close friends and family in the creative process. This not only adds sentimental value to your decor but also creates a sense of accomplishment and shared joy. DIY wedding decorations enable you to showcase your personality, making your wedding truly one-of-a-kind.
Save Money on Your Central Illinois Wedding
By incorporating these budget-friendly ideas, you can enjoy a beautiful and memorable wedding without financial stress. Remember, it’s the love and commitment you share that truly make your day extraordinary, not the size of your budget. Happy wedding planning!
Complete Weddings + Events Central Illinois
Complete Weddings + Events is here to help you stay within your wedding budget! When you book us for photography, videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination, we save you time and money and give you peace of mind.
Contact us to begin creating a customized package for your big day! Don’t forget to visit our blog page for more wedding tips and inspiration.