There are so many aspects of planning a wedding that can feel overwhelming. From choosing the perfect dress to planning the perfect ceremony and reception, it’s enough to make anyone sweat. And with all those costs adding up, it’s no wonder many couples are looking for ways to keep their budgets in check as much as possible. 

But fear not! Those of you who are about to tie the knot can be rest assured that there will be some savings thrown your way once you walk down the aisle.

Here are some ways you can save money before saying “I do”

Know the average cost of a wedding

Hey, before you start saving pennies, it’s important to know what you’re saving for. It’s also wise to know what you can expect to spend on your own wedding. For starters, weddings cost the typical couple who gets married an average of N1.2 million – N4 million in Nigeria. 

In other countries, the amount you end up spending on your wedding will vary greatly depending on the country and the institution of marriage. Just like any other purchase, you can also find ways to keep your wedding costs down. Here are a few tips to help you get started. – Know the requirement. 

Before you start hunting for ways to save money, it’s important to know what you’d like to get out of the experience. You can start by looking at the kind of wedding you’d like to have. Knowing the kind of wedding you want will help you visualize your wedding better and make better decisions. Knowing what you want will also help you prioritize your wedding expenses. – Know the requirement. 

Having a clear idea of the kind of wedding you’d like to have will also help you pick and choose the venue, decorations, and vendors you’d like to work with. Decide what you want and you can save a lot!

Have an invitation list ready

One of the most important steps in planning your wedding is to create an invitation list. The size of your guest list will have a significant impact on the overall cost of your wedding. To keep costs down, consider inviting only close family and friends. If you’re having a difficult time narrowing down your guest list, consider having a small, intimate ceremony and a larger reception afterward.

You can also consider limiting plus ones or inviting guests to certain parts of your wedding. For example, you might invite some guests to the ceremony only and others to the reception. Creating a detailed invitation list early on can help you make important decisions and keep your costs under control.

Ask your vendors for discounts

When you’re planning a wedding, it’s essential to find ways to save money wherever you can. One way to do this is by asking your vendors for discounts. Many vendors, such as photographers and caterers, offer discounts for weddings that are held during the off-season or on weekdays. You can also ask for discounts for paying in cash or for bundling services together.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with your vendors, especially if you’re on a tight budget. They may be willing to work with you to provide the services you need at a lower cost. Be sure to get all agreements in writing and read the fine print before signing any contracts.

ALSO READ: 10 CREATIVE SAVINGS OPTIONS YOU NEED TO TRY

Make your own registry

Another way to save money on your wedding is to make your own registry. Instead of registering at a traditional retailer, consider creating a registry for things like experiences or services. For example, you could create a registry for a cooking class, a honeymoon fund, or a photography session.

This can be a great way to get the things you really want and need without breaking the bank. You can also consider creating a charity registry, where guests can make a donation to a cause that is important to you and your partner.

Don’t get a dress right away

Your wedding dress is one of the most important parts of your wedding day, but it can also be one of the most expensive. Instead of buying a dress right away, consider renting a dress or buying a pre-owned dress. You can often find designer dresses at a fraction of the cost if you’re willing to be flexible with the style or size.

You can also consider buying a dress off the rack or having a dress custom-made. Be sure to set a realistic budget for your dress and try not to get carried away with expensive accessories or alterations.

Plan for the unexpected

No matter how well you plan your wedding, there are always unexpected expenses that can arise. To avoid being caught off guard, it’s essential to set aside a portion of your budget for unexpected expenses. This can include things like extra decor, last-minute vendor fees, or emergency supplies.

Having a contingency plan can help reduce stress and ensure that you’re prepared for any surprises that come your way. If you don’t end up needing the extra funds, you can always put the money towards your honeymoon or another part of your wedding.

Hold an auction or B&B

If you’re still struggling to stay within your budget, you might consider holding an auction or B&B. This can be a great way to raise additional funds for your wedding and involve your guests in the process. You can auction off things like wedding favors, centerpieces, or even items that you no longer need.

Another option is to host a B&B, where guests can bid on experiences like a cooking class or a wine tasting. This can be a fun way to get your guests involved and help you raise the extra funds you need to make your wedding a success.

Final Words

Your wedding day should be one of the most special and memorable days of your life, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By following these tips and being creative, you can plan a beautiful wedding that fits within your budget. Remember, the most important thing is that you’re surrounded by the people you love and that you’re starting your new life together.

Whether you’re looking to save money on your dress, find ways to cut back on your guest list, or negotiate with your vendors, there are always ways to reduce costs without sacrificing the things that are most important to you. With a little bit of planning and a lot of creativity, you can say “I do” to save and have the wedding of your dreams.