How To Plan A Summer Wedding On A Budget

How To Plan A Summer Wedding On A Budget

Summer is wedding season, and as with any high-demand situations, price isn’t always friendly. If you’re planning a wedding on a budget, it’s important to stay focused on realistically what you can afford and to prioritize.

If you have your heart set on a warm, summer wedding date, but you’re short on cash, here are a few tips to make your date extra special, while still within cost restraints. Remember, at the end of the day, it’s the little details and the love between the couple that matter most, beyond all the miscellaneous splurges.

Prioritize Important Details

Is having a wedding at your dream venue a must? If so, put that expense first. If you need to forgo a dessert bar or a few hors d’oeuvres, so be it.

Another thing to consider: Hosting your wedding at an indoor venue in the summer. Not only will there be plenty of A/C to go around (which can be a blessing come wedding makeup and hair styling!), but you might be able to secure better deals, as there’s often a high demand for outdoor spots.

DIY Centerpieces & Extras

The cost of floral centerpieces is astounding—those roses and peonies really add up. Instead, make your own centerpieces to cut costs and still make the décor beautiful and personal. And, an upside is that you’ll have total control over the display, where you can really let your personality shine through.

Consider making your own custom napkins, signs, party favors, and invitations.

Keep Your Guest List Small

If you’re looking for a fancier event, but on a budget, the best way to weed out extra dues is to keep the guest list short and sweet. What’s more, you can choose summer dates that fall over holidays, like Father’s day, July 4th, or Labor Day Weekend, as people may have other plans already and won’t be able to attend.

Another way to cut costs is through the way you invite people, as well. Sending an electronic invitation, instead of save the dates, for example, will help you stay within budget and still allow you to create a cute, romantic invitation that guests will love. You can even have people RSVP via app—it’s better for your wallet and the planet.

Have A Buddy Ordain You

It might seem unconventional, but payment for an officiant actually costs a lot. Why not ask a friend or relative to fill the duty? Not only does it make the wedding ceremony more personal, but it’s also a good way to stay within your wedding budget.

What’s more, it can make for some special, silly, romantic, and truthful stories and vows. And, you’ll make your officiant feel like the luckiest human in the world.

Play With Lighting

Sometimes a little light manipulation can accentuate the total vibe and luxe feeling of a wedding, for not that much money. By playing with the lighting details at a wedding, you can instantly enhance your décor to make your event extra special. Guests will focus on the overall atmosphere, rather than the details that are “missed” due to budget restrictions. Try a deep, royal purple, or a pretty display of neon colors to romanticize the room.

Ready to book your next private event? Contact Viper Alley on our website or by phone at 847.499.5000.