Throwing a wedding can easily cost a small fortune. While you might be prepared to spend a good amount on your event, it can be helpful to know that there are plenty of ways to cut corners. Review these tips and find the best ways to save when putting together the details of your big day. 

The Guest List

One of the easiest ways to save money when planning your wedding is being mindful of the guest list. The more people you invite, the more it will cost you. Instead of inviting hundreds of people to your event, consider keeping things small. An intimate affair with a limited guest list can make for a more memorable experience for your family and friends. You can also keep the list small by being very strict about who receives plus-one invitations. 

The Date

Another simple way to keep your wedding costs down is by selecting a nontraditional date. If you book your event for a Wednesday instead of a weekend, for example, you can save a significant amount of money. Wedding experts also advise booking your wedding during off-peak months to avoid spending a lot. Events held between November and April tend to be less expensive than those that take place between May and October. 

The Alcohol

Providing liquor to your guests can also be a huge expense connected to your big day. If possible, look for a venue that allows you the option of bringing your own alcohol. Instead of paying exorbitant vendor fees, you can save a good amount of money by grabbing your favorite bottles from a local liquor store and bringing them to the venue the day before the reception. You can also limit how much you spend on the bar by providing a signature cocktail or two rather than offering a huge variety of alcohol. 

The Decor

Instead of buying a bunch of new decorations for your wedding, you may find it is more cost-effective to borrow what you can from people you know. If someone in your family tied the knot recently, see if they’d be willing to loan you a few odds and ends. Some couples are even opting to use residential furniture in their venue spaces. This means taking some items from your own home and incorporating them into your decor to save a few bucks. 

The Attire

A wedding dress and tuxedo are rarely worn more than once. Instead of buying your attire new, consider renting it and save yourself a bit of money. If you already have your heart set on something new, then you can rent the accessories. Everything from jewelry to floral bouquets can be rented. Take a look at all your options in order to avoid spending all of your budget on your outfit.  

The Food

You don’t need to offer guests a plated dinner in order to provide them with a delicious meal at your wedding. To save money, think about uncommon options like renting a food truck for the reception. Not only can this help you avoid spending a fortune, it is a great way to offer more variety to your guests. 

The Flowers

Picking the right flowers is another way to avoid spending too much on your wedding. By opting for floral arrangements comprised of blossoms that are local and in season, you can get the best deals. Some wedding experts also suggest using filler flowers like baby’s breath for your bouquets when you want to save money without sacrificing the aesthetic quality of your arrangements.

While throwing a wedding can easily cost a ton of money, there are countless ways to save if you’re willing to get creative. Consider which of these ideas will work best for the vision you have for your big day, and find practical ways to save.