Wedding Cost-Cutting Budget Tool

Overall Details & Venue Costs

Wedding Details

$

Venue

$ $ (?)Tip: Consider public parks, off-peak days, or a combined ceremony/reception venue.
$ $ (?)Tip: Non-traditional venues (community halls, restaurants) or all-inclusive packages might be cheaper.
$ $ (?)Tip: Choose venues with inclusive packages or opt for simpler rental options.

Attire, Rings & Beauty

Attire

$ $ (?)Tip: Consider sample sales, pre-owned gowns, simpler designs, or non-bridal dresses.
$ $ (?)Tip: Rent attire, buy from high-street stores, or wear an existing suit.
$ $ (?)Tip: Borrow 'something old/blue', DIY, or choose budget-friendly options.
$ $

Rings

$ $
$ $ (?)Tip: Consider alternative metals (e.g., tungsten, titanium, silver), simpler designs, or pre-owned.

Hair & Beauty

$ $ (?)Tip: DIY, ask a talented friend, or use a beauty school student (supervised).
$ $ (?)Tip: DIY, group rates with bridal party, or use a department store makeup counter service.
$ $ (?)Tip: Opt for at-home treatments or limit to essential services.

Ceremony, Reception & Photography/Videography

Ceremony

$ $ (?)Tip: Ask a friend/family member to get ordained online (check legalities).
$ $
$ $ (?)Tip: DIY decor, use seasonal/local flowers, minimal arrangements, repurpose for reception.
$ $ (?)Tip: Curate your own playlist, hire student musicians.

Reception - Food & Drink

$ $ (?)Tip: Buffet/family-style vs. plated, less expensive meal choices (e.g., brunch, BBQ), fewer courses.
$ $ (?)Tip: Smaller display cake + sheet cake in back, cupcakes, dessert bar with homemade items.
$ $ (?)Tip: Limited bar (beer/wine only), signature cocktails, BYOB venue (if allowed), non-alcoholic options focus.

Reception - Other

$ $ (?)Tip: Repurpose ceremony decor, DIY centerpieces, use venue's existing decor, candles.
$ $ (?)Tip: Create your own playlist, hire a student DJ/band, shorter performance time.
$ $ (?)Tip: DIY favors, edible treats, small donation to charity in guests' name, or skip altogether.

Photography & Videography

$ $ (?)Tip: Fewer hours of coverage, hire an associate or newer photographer, digital-only package.
$ $ (?)Tip: Shorter coverage, highlights reel only, or ask a talented friend with good equipment.

Stationery, Transportation & Miscellaneous

Stationery

$ $ (?)Tip: Go digital (e-vites) or postcards to save on printing and postage.
$ $ (?)Tip: Simpler design, DIY printing, digital RSVPs through a wedding website.
$ $ (?)Tip: Digital thank yous for some guests, or postcards.
$ $ (?)Tip: Combine (e.g., menu on place card), DIY, or skip some items (e.g., individual menus).

Transportation

$ $ (?)Tip: Use own car, friend's car, or standard rideshare.
$ $ (?)Tip: Choose venue with good public transport access or accommodation nearby; encourage carpooling.

Gifts

$ $ (?)Tip: DIY gifts, heartfelt notes, smaller thoughtful items.
$ $

Miscellaneous & Contingency

$ $ (?)Tip: Opt for day-of coordinator instead of full planner, or plan DIY with help from organized friends/family.
$ $ (?)Tip: Calculated as a % of other Standard/Cost-Cut totals respectively in the summary. Or enter fixed amounts.
$ $

Wedding Budget Summary & Potential Savings

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