Dream Destination Wedding on a Budget: Tips and Tricks to Keep in Mind
When it comes to getting married, every couple wants their special day to be perfect, and that includes the location. There are many couples out there who dream of having their wedding on a beautiful beach, or a stunning mountaintop, but these fantasies can seemingly vanish when considering the cost associated with such a location.
A destination wedding can quickly become expensive, but it is not impossible to stay within your budget and still have an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips and tricks to help make your dream destination wedding a reality.
Opting for Non-Peak Times
Choosing a non-peak wedding date is the first budget-saving tip. Weddings that take place during weekdays, winter, spring, or holidays are much cheaper than traditional Saturday weddings in peak season.
By choosing a non-peak wedding date, you can save money on almost everything related to your wedding, from accommodation and transportation to catering and photography.
Booking in Bulk
Another way to save money is by booking everything in bulk. Venues often offer wedding packages that include everything from the catering and bridal suite to chairs and tables.
You can also look into bulk packages for airfare and hotel accommodations, which can significantly reduce your expenses. When booking in bulk, make sure to look for deals and discounts for larger groups to save even more money.
Cutting Communication Costs
Another way to save money is by cutting communication costs. By downloading free messaging apps like WhatsApp or Viber, you can communicate with your vendors and guests through Wi-Fi without having to pay for pricey international calls or SMS messages.
Renting the Wedding Dress
Did you know that you can rent designer wedding dresses? Thats right! Rent the Runway offers an impressive collection of designer dresses, including several wedding dress options.
Renting a wedding dress is much cheaper than buying, and you can select a beautiful gown without breaking the bank.
Researching Hidden Marriage Fees
When planning your destination wedding, make sure to research any hidden marriage fees. Filing costs, health screenings, and itemized lists can quickly add up, so make sure that you have a clear understanding of all the expenses involved before committing to your dream destination wedding.
Tips to Stretch Your Destination Wedding Budget
Finding Low-Cost or Free Wedding Venues
One way to save a significant amount of money is by selecting a low-cost or free wedding venue. Beaches and parks are both beautiful options that only require a permit.
Plus, natural scenery can serve as a beautiful backdrop for your special day, saving you money on decor.
Saving on Photographer Costs
Just because you are on a budget, it does not mean that you have to settle for poor quality pictures of your special day. Consider asking a photography-savvy friend to take candid shots throughout the day with a disposable or DSLR camera.
Save the official wedding pictures with a professional for the main group shots.
Beauty on a Budget
Its essential to look your best on your big day but hiring a professional hair and makeup artist can be expensive. Consider asking a friend or relative with skills in hair and makeup to help you get ready.
Alternatively, pay a makeup school student for a fraction of the cost to do your hair and makeup.
Purging the Guest List
Feeding and pleasing every guest can be a significant budget buster. Cutting down your guest list to only the essential friends and family can save you money on catering and reduce the space needed for your wedding.
Opting for family-style entres or a buffet-style dinner can also reduce your catering expenses.
Starting to Save Early
The most important tip to ensure that you stay within your budget is to start saving early. Saving a little bit every month and setting up a separate account specifically for your wedding costs, including your monthly expenses and side hustles to add to it, can make a massive difference in your bank account.
In conclusion, a destination wedding can be a dream come true with the right planning and budgeting. By following these tips and tricks, you can have the wedding of your dreams on a budget, avoiding the post-wedding remorse that sometimes comes with overspending.
In summary, having a dream destination wedding on a budget is achievable with some well-informed and practical strategies. Choosing non-peak times for the wedding, booking in bulk, cutting communication costs, renting the wedding dress, and researching hidden marriage fees are among the most effective ways of saving money.
To stretch your destination wedding budget, consider finding low-cost or free wedding venues, saving on photographer costs, beauty on a budget, purging the guest list, and starting to save early. Planning and budgeting well ensures an unforgettable experience without compromising on quality or breaking the bank.
Remember to start your planning early, research thoroughly, and capitalize on creative and personal touches to make your destination wedding a delightful and memorable experience that you will cherish forever.