Planning a Budget Wedding? Elope Instead

Did you know that as of 2017, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $26,720. In some cities, that cost rises to as much as $57,205. That is a pretty hefty price tag for a couple embarking on a new life together. It is hardly surprising that elopements and small weddings are becoming the more popular option. Year after year, couples tell us that they would much rather spend their money on buying a home or paying down student loans or credit card debts. That is why we are seeing a growing number of couples interested in planning a budget wedding. Eloping can be the perfect option. An all-inclusive elopement package averages around $2,500, but you can also elope for far less if you are happy with a basic ceremony instead.

Let’s take a look at a few tips to help you to plan a budget wedding.

What is Most Important to Your Wedding?

When it comes to planning a budget wedding, one of the first things you need to do it sit down and think about what is important. Spending less on your wedding does not necessarily mean having to sacrifice all of the extras like flowers, wedding cake, and a beautiful wedding dress. It is just a matter of deciding which features you don’t want to do without. Save money by eliminating the things that do not matter so much and you will have more to spend on the must-have features.

Decide On a Budget

Once you have a list of what you need to make your wedding perfect, you will be in a better position to set a budget. Be realistic about how much you can afford to spend on each part of the wedding. Elopement packages are a great way to save money as they will often include the ceremony plus a few additional features for one low price.

Use All Available Resources

If you are planning a budget wedding, it is wise to look at all of the resources that you have available to you. If you have a friend or a family member who is a fabulous baker then maybe they can make your cake for cost price – or even as your wedding gift. Think about any contacts you have that can help you to save money on the little things. When you trim a few dollars off the extras it leaves more in the budget to upgrade your ceremony. Maybe even add a room for a couple of nights for a short honeymoon.

Consider a Midweek Wedding

A great way to have a budget wedding without missing out on any of the features you want is to look at weekday weddings! Many vendors who offer small weddings and elopement ceremonies offer substantial discounts midweek at times when they are usually fairly quiet. This means that you can usually secure the same elopement package or venue you have had your eye on at a much cheaper rate. Midweek weddings work well for small budget weddings and elopements.  Weekend weddings are in higher demand because couples need to accommodate guests who are working through the week. However, with a small wedding or elopement, there are fewer guests, which makes juggling schedules easier and choosing a midweek date more feasible.

Are you planning a budget wedding? We would love to hear your tips and tricks on saving money on your big day.

By Dave Westfall