From elaborate decorations to bottomless goodies for guests, do these traditions add value or drain your funds?
If you plan a celebration that reflects your style rather than widespread expectations, cutting back on these expenses can help you focus on what truly matters—good food, great company, and a meaningful ceremony.
Pro Tip: Concerned about managing your finances before tying the knot? If you have over $150,000 in savings, consulting with a professional financial advisor might be wise. Zoe Financial is a free service that will match you with a pro in your area.
1. Forget over-the-top invitations
High-end paper, custom lettering, and fancy graphics can take a massive bite out of your budget.
You can easily replace printed invites with digital versions that cost little to nothing or use a simpler design. Save the extra funds as a gift to yourself for the future.
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2. Lose pricey wedding favors
Small gifts for guests may seem thoughtful, but they can devour your budget. Monogrammed trinkets or fancy boxes of sweets may feel standard, but they get left behind at the end of the celebration.
Skip favors entirely or opt for a simple thank you note to show appreciation. Even better, make an effort to call all your guests in the month following your honeymoon to thank them for coming.
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3. Forgo matching bridal party gifts
Coordinated gift sets for bridesmaids or groomsmen can be expensive—and not everyone wants a monogrammed robe or engraved flask. If you still want to give a small token, consider something you know each person will use. Practical gifts often hold more value and can save money than overpriced, wedding-themed options.
Like smart spending choices can stretch your budget, smart investing choices can maximize your future financial security. Putting money toward meaningful, long-term goals—whether for a wedding, a home, or retirement—can make a significant difference over time.
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4. Nix elaborate signage and one-use-only décor
If you do want signage, keep it minimal or try DIY. Chalkboards, string lights, and homemade backdrops can add charm at low cost.
Most guests will focus on the ceremony and the food more than they will notice small décor details. Spend wisely on what people truly appreciate.
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5. Avoid weekend-long festivities
Weddings can stretch into multiple days of parties, brunches, or after-parties—racking up expenses quickly. While celebrating with loved ones is important, hosting a simple rehearsal dinner or casual get-together can keep costs in check. Instead of splurging on an extended wedding weekend, save the big gatherings for occasions when everyone can share the expenses.
Big life events often come with high costs, but some expenses—like home repairs—are harder to plan for. As you budget wisely for wedding festivities, having a safety net for unexpected home expenses can help protect your finances.
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6. Cancel the limousine (or multiple car rentals)
High-end transportation may seem glamorous, but it is another extra cost that adds up quickly.
If you only go a short distance, use a single car, rideshare, or even a friend’s well-kept vehicle for a more personal touch.
Pro Tip: Repair costs are skyrocketing, but you need to know your car won’t fail you on your big day. If you’re concerned about spending thousands on a car repair, consider the cost/benefit of an extended car warranty.
7. Cross off expensive wedding cake
Towering wedding cakes with intricate designs cost more and are only half-eaten. A smaller display cake plus a sheet cake in the kitchen can be just as impressive and cheaper overall.
You could even opt for cupcakes or a dessert buffet. Guests appreciate variety, and it often comes with a smaller price tag.
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8. Eliminate coordinated photo booths and props
Photo booths with printed strips, wacky props, or elaborate sets might be fun, but they often cost a bundle.
Consider a simple DIY backdrop and a few props from a thrift store to keep guests entertained with their phones without draining your budget. Ask them to upload pics to a shared photo site.
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9. Keep wedding debt within your limits
A final expense that couples sometimes overlook is interest on loans or credit cards when wedding costs spiral out of control.
Instead of starting married life in major debt, prioritize saving first or pare down your event.
Pro Tip: If your bills are piling up from unexpected wedding costs and you have more than $20,000 in unsecured debt, get some professional help. National Debt Relief is a trusted source for free advice and assistance.
Celebrate without overspending
You do not need to burn your savings to have a meaningful wedding. Focus on the experiences and details that resonate with you—and avoid the expenses that do not.
Keep your celebration unique and personal and create lasting memories without an enormous price tag.
Pro Tip: Start married life by being fiscally responsible. If you and your new spouse have more than $100,000 in savings, get advice from a pro. SmartAsset offers a free service that matches you to a vetted, fiduciary advisor in less than 5 minutes.
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