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Planning a Las Vegas wedding can be a fun and joyful experience until you start adding up the total cost. From flowers and champagne to hair and makeup — not to mention the venue — weddings can get expensive very quickly. Instead of using “girl math” to justify getting everything you want, consider some creative ways to make your day more affordable and just as special.
Here are some savvy budgeting tips to try if you’re wondering how to approach your big day without breaking the bank.
Stay organized
While it’s not the most exciting tip, keeping your wedding budget in one place, like a spreadsheet or in a wedding planning app on your smartphone, can go a long way to keep you on track. Update your spreadsheet regularly with your latest expenses and estimated costs so that you don’t forget about those midnight snacks you ordered to keep everyone dancing or the exact amount you’re spending on a photographer.
If you’re considering borrowing money, a loan in Las Vegas could help you get the funds you need for your wedding with predictable monthly payments and a set payoff date.
Choose an off-season date
Many weddings take place in the summer or early fall months, making those times of year pricier since vendors have more demand, but a late fall or winter wedding could be just as beautiful. Especially if you don’t plan on spending much time outdoors during your celebration, look into an off-peak wedding date during the winter or early spring months.
Similarly, while most people choose to get married on the weekend, you could look into a weekday wedding—you might be able to get a better deal on your preferred venue.
Get creative with your venue
Sometimes, a more creative wedding venue might be less expensive. Consider asking your favorite museum or restaurant if they host weddings or receptions, look into public parks or gardens or ask a friend if you might use their beautiful backyard. Also, consider holding the ceremony and reception in the same place so you won’t have to pay for transportation between locations.
A non-traditional venue may also allow you to bring in your own food and beverages, which could help you save money. Consider a wedding brunch or lunch instead of a multi-course dinner and serve a few signature cocktails instead of having an open bar.
Trimming your guest list is another tip. While it can be tempting to invite everyone you’ve ever met, remember that each person will contribute to the overall cost of the event, including the size of the venue you need and the catering bill.
Use digital invitations
Instead of spending money on costly paper invitations that most guests will likely toss, send out a digital invite. You can use all sorts of design services to make a digital invitation look just as beautiful, plus guests can more easily access your wedding website for additional information about your celebration. You’ll save money on postage and printing, and you can put your “paper” budget toward dinner menus, signage or thank you cards for your guests.
Ask friends and family for support
Think about talented friends or family members who may be able to help you with music, decor, logistics or even baking your wedding cake in lieu of buying you a gift. While this may be a lot to ask of someone, most people are very eager to contribute in some way. If your friend loves music, why not ask them if they might make a few playlists for your after party? And if your cousin is the designated family photographer, ask if she could get some candid shots on film or capture behind-the-scenes video footage.
Just be sure you’re okay with a non-professional doing the job, and be very clear about your expectations so there aren’t any miscommunications on the day.
Your wedding doesn’t have to cost a fortune
You don’t have to shell out a ton of money for your wedding to be special and memorable. Stay organized, get creative with your wedding date and venue, think about cost-cutting hacks like digital invitations and ask your loved ones for help.
While it might be tempting to spend to your heart’s content, consider how much better you’ll feel making your day feel like “you,” knowing that you’re starting your marriage on solid financial footing.
Notice: Information provided in this article is for information purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of womeninbalance.org or its employees. Please be sure to consult your financial advisor about your financial circumstances and options.
