There are few disappointments worse than realizing your perfect wedding venue is far from perfect for your budget. However, if you are a bride on a budget, with some forward planning and adjustments, you can still have your wedding at a premier location, even if the initial price quote seemed overwhelming.
1. Go Off-Peak
Plan your wedding for off-peak months, which are usually January, February, and November. Most venues charge much less during these quieter times than busier seasons.
While these months might seem cold, you can turn this into a positive by choosing long-sleeved dresses for you and your bridesmaids. Adding a furry wrap and statement gloves can transform an ordinary dress into an extraordinary outfit. Unlike a summer wedding, where the weather can be unpredictable, choosing cooler months makes you better prepared.
2. Go on Off Days
There are also off-peak seasons and days. Choose a cost-effective weekday to save even more money. Saturday is the most expensive day for a wedding, followed by Friday and Sunday. However, Thursday can be a much cheaper option.
You might be concerned about your guests arranging time off work or traveling long distances mid-week. But remember, it’s your big day, and if your nearest and dearest want to share it with you, they will make the effort. Just give them plenty of notice to make organizing easier!
3. Go Custom
Many wedding venues offer packages with things you may not want, such as a three-course wedding breakfast or a DJ you haven’t vetted. To stretch your budget further, consider only hiring the venue and customizing your options to suit your finances.
An off-peak wedding in cooler months makes a warm and hearty menu a very welcome option. To keep wedding dinner costs down, ask your caterer for communal options to satisfy the hungriest guests. You can also skip the dessert course by having cupcakes around your wedding cake and serving them as a sweet treat with coffee. These changes mean you pay your caterer for only one main course, but your guests will still feel well-fed.
4. Go Last-Minute
Wedding venues want people in their seats and are happy to host your wedding on almost any date. If you can hold your nerve and be flexible, you can save thousands by opting for a late deal in one of the off-peak months. A “late deal” is usually offered for dates without a booking in the next three months. Many wedding information websites have a late deals page with details for nationwide venues.
For example, booking a venue in November for the following April might be more than twice as expensive as booking the same venue in January. Planning ahead is crucial. Don’t worry too much about giving your guests plenty of notice, especially if booking an off-peak period. Remember, in January and February, people are less likely to be on vacation and more likely to be available on short notice.
If you are starting your wedding planning journey, don’t be upset if your favorite venue seems out of budget. There are ways to achieve the seemingly impossible and have your dream wedding at your dream location!
