Weddings don't have to break the bank, here are some tips to budget your wedding effectively

Weddings can be expensive, but with a little bit of planning and creativity, there are ways to save money and still have a beautiful wedding day. Here are a few tips to help you stretch your budget...

Set a budget and stick to it:

This is the most important step to saving money on your wedding. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and even easier to fall victim to 'keeping up with the Joneses'. Determine how much you can afford to spend and then make a list of your priorities. This will help you allocate your funds more efficiently and avoid overspending on things that ultimately aren't that important to you.

Try off-peak season:

Many venues and vendors offer discounts for weddings that take place during the off-peak season - typically from November to April. By opting for a winter wedding, for example, you may be able to save on everything from venue booking to catering costs.

Off the beaten path:

Instead of looking at the same wedding venue your friends or family used, consider getting married at a park, historical site or a family cottage. These types of locations will be less expensive and offer a unique and memorable setting for your I Dos.

Weekday weddings:

Saturday is the most popular day for weddings, so booking a venue on a Friday or Sunday may result in significant cost savings. The past few years I've seen more Monday and Thursday weddings - especially for out of country couples.

Be ruthless with your guest list:

The more guests you invite, the more expensive your wedding will be. So sharpen your pencil and trim your guest list to only include close friends and family. The smaller the list, the smaller the cost with the added bonus of not having your time spread thin on your wedding day. A smaller guest list leaves you more time to spend with those closest to you. Here are a few reasons to downsize and elope for your wedding.

Explore your inner DIY self:

From centerpieces to favours, there are many aspects of a wedding that can be done DIY-style to save money. Hop on YouTube and learn how to make your own bouquets, create a music playlist for both dinner and dancing etc. This is a great opportunity to get creative and personalize your wedding.

Peek into the future:

Sit down with your fiancé and imagine what you could put that money you save towards in your future. A new home, travel, a growing family etc.By being mindful of your budget, sharpening your pencil and rolling up your sleeves - you can have a beautiful and memorable wedding without breaking the bank.

Wedding Tips to Save Money