To Splurge or to Save? A Guide to Smart Wedding Spending

Planning your dream wedding is an exhilarating journey, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. As more and more couples are looking to find ways to cut their wedding expenses and stay within their budgets, the question then becomes: where should you splurge and where should you save? In this article, we've compiled 8 of the most notable areas in which couples can splurge or opt for a lower cost, DIY alternative. We're here to empower you with the knowledge needed to make financially savvy decisions for your big day that will suit your unique style and budget.

Splurge: If you've always envisioned exchanging vows in a fairy-tale castle or surrounded by the beauty of a lush garden, consider indulging in a dream-worthy venue. Investing in a location that resonates with your dreams ensures an unforgettable setting for the start of your lifelong journey together. When choosing your dream venue, consider factors that are a must for you such as the ambiance, views, space, and overall experience it offers. Splurging on your venue is not just about a physical space; it's an investment in the atmosphere and memories that will be associated with one of the most important days of your life.

Save: For DIY enthusiasts seeking intimacy on a budget, explore charming, cost-effective venue options like community halls, local parks, or a friend's backyard. Transforming a simple space into a charming wedding venue with DIY touches and thoughtful decorations brings a personalized touch to your wedding, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

Splurge: The most effective way to elevate your venue is to invest in opulent decor that reflects your style and aligns with your wedding aesthetic. In most cases, hiring professional decorators will be your best option to ensure that your vision is perfectly executed in time for the big day, but your overall decor choices will be the most important element when transforming your venue. With extravagant florals, draped fabrics, and elegant centerpieces, you can turn any space into a dreamy wedding wonderland. Splurging on decor is often an option that couples invest in, but keep in mind that this splurge may range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more depending on a variety of factors such as location, the overall size of your venue, and the decor pieces themselves. 

Save: If you're looking to stay within your budget or simply save where you can, then consider channeling your inner artisan and DIY your decor for a personal touch without breaking the bank. Creating a Loverly mood board is a simple yet effective way to find and store inspiration for your DIY projects so you can easily execute them when the time is right. Pinterest is another goldmine for creative and cost-effective ideas that, from handmade centerpieces to repurposed mason jars for a rustic feel. While it may feel like a overwhelming task to put on your plate in the midst of wedding planning, DIYing your decor doesn't have to be a challenge. Plan ahead, involve friends and family, and explore thrift stores for affordable items. With creativity, you can achieve stunning results and keep decor expenses within the range.

Splurge: Transform your wedding's atmosphere with breathtaking floral arrangements by investing in a professional florist. According to the owner and lead designer of Rogue & Fox Floral Co and Rogue Marketplace, Drew Rios, openly discussing your budget with your florist is the first step to bringing your dream florals to your wedding.

Professional florists bring design expertise, access to diverse blooms, and the skill to craft arrangements that seamlessly align with your wedding theme. Costs may vary based on factors such as location and complexity, with couples typically spending between $2,000 to $5,000 on professional floral services.

Save: For budget-conscious couples, consider opting for a savvy alternative by DIYing your floral arrangements. Source flowers from local markets or from your own garden to help cut costs. One of the perks to DIYing your own florals, aside from saving money, is having the creative freedom to experiment with unique blooms and greenery and create centerpieces that hold sentimental value. To help get the job done, you can enlist the help of friends and family for a flower-arranging party, making it a collaborative and cost-effective process. While DIY flowers demand more time and effort, the personal touch and affordability make it a rewarding endeavor. On average, couples who choose the DIY route can keep the floral budget within the range of $500 to $1,500.

Splurge: Elevate your wedding experience by investing in top-notch catering that offers gourmet meals, a diverse menu, and impeccable service. As co-owner of Colette’s Catering & Events, Duane Greenleaf advises that you get clear on your budget and guest count before meeting with a potential caterer. 

This underscores the importance of allocating a significant portion for catering to enhance the overall celebration. While costs vary, couples typically spend between $1,800 and $7,000 or more when splurging on premium catering services. For many couples, splurging on catering is often a must as it ensure that quality food and drinks are being served during your most important life event.

Save: Opt for a budget-friendly catering approach by hiring a local service or having family and friends help you cook. Consider a potluck-style reception for a community-driven and personalized touch. Buffet-style dinners or food trucks are also great options that can add a fun twist to the evening. These alternatives may demand more coordination, time, and effort, but they are a more cost-effective option that'll help you feed your guests quality dishes without having to go over budget. If you have a smaller sized wedding, this may be a great way to keep costs down, saving your money for bigger dreams and goals. 

Splurge: Investing in your wedding attire is a splurge that sets the tone for the entire celebration. For brides, a designer gown can be a show-stopper, ensuring you radiate elegance and grace on your special day. Grooms can shine in a custom-tailored suit, providing a personalized and picture-perfect look that you and your partner will reminisce on for the rest of your lives. When splurging on attire, consider the craftsmanship, fabric quality, and unique details that align with your style. Be sure to get your outfit tailored for a more refined, a well-fitted look.

Save: For savvy shoppers, finding stunning wedding attire on a budget is completely possible and easier to accomplish than you may think. Explore budget-friendly stores that offer beautiful dresses and suits at a fraction of the cost. Don't underestimate the charm of second-hand options—bridal boutiques and online marketplaces are treasure troves for pre-loved wedding attire. If you're open to wearing a dress worn by your mother or MIL, you can have it tailored and redesigned to fit your body and style. Tailoring plays a pivotal role in achieving the perfect fit, and even an off-the-rack outfit can be transformed into something uniquely yours with skilled alterations. By opting for cost-effective alternatives, couples can keep the wedding attire budget within your ideal range.

Splurge: Your guests' first introduction to your wedding will be through your stationery which is why many couples want to make a lasting impression by splurging on luxurious, custom-designed invitations that captivate guests from the start. When looking for save the date cards and invitations, you'll want to look for high-quality paper, intricate details, and professional printing to set the tone for your celebration. While this may be a pricier option, the tactile experience and visual allure of a beautifully crafted invitation will add a touch of elegance, leaving your guests eagerly anticipating the festivities. Consider incorporating personalized touches that reflect your wedding theme, ensuring the invitations become cherished keepsakes for you and your loved ones long after your wedding is over.

Save: If physical invitations aren't a must have for you, then digital invitations might be your best bet if you want to achieve a stylish and eco-friendly alternative. Create a stunning design online, saving on printing costs and reducing paper waste. Digital invitations offer the flexibility to include interactive elements like RSVP buttons and links to wedding websites where you guests can find all the necessary information they'll need without having to hold onto a physical invitation to reference. 

Splurge: If you've ever been a guest at a wedding then you know how sweet and meaningful it is to receive a thoughtful wedding favor from the couple of the hour. When it comes to wedding favors, a thoughtful splurge can leave an indelible mark on your guests. Consider personalized and extravagant keepsakes that reflect the uniqueness of your relationship. Consider purchasing engraved trinkets or custom-made items that can be useful to your guests long after your wedding. Items like bottle openers, coasters, candles, etc. can serve as lasting mementos, expressing gratitude to your loved ones for being a part of your special day.

Save: Get creative with handmade candles, custom cookies, or even crafted seed packets. Not only does this option save you money, but it also allows you to infuse your unique style into each favor, showing your appreciation in a heartfelt way. Get your friends and family involved in the DIY process, turning it into a fun and collaborative pre-wedding activity. The thought and effort you put into these personalized favors will undoubtedly be appreciated by your guests, making them feel even more connected to your special day.

Splurge: A wedding planner is a splurge that ensures flawless execution and streamlines the planning process, allowing you to savor your wedding day without stress. From coordinating vendors to managing timelines, their expertise turns your wedding into a seamless and unforgettable experience. Jove Meyer, a top NYC wedding planner, emphasizes the benefits of hiring a wedding planner that is often a major selling point for many couples. 

Save: If a wedding planner is out of your budget, worry not! DIY your wedding planning with online resources, timelines, and collaboration with family and friends to aid you throughout your journey. Create detailed checklists, utilize wedding planning apps, and designate tasks as needed to stay on top of your to-do list and ensure you're hitting those important deadlines. While demanding meticulous organization, this option lets you play a hands-on role in crafting your special day without the added expense of a professional planner, turning your wedding into a collaborative labor of love.

In the end, the key to a memorable wedding is to find the perfect balance between splurging on what matters most to you as a couple and getting creative with cost-effective alternatives. Whether you choose to go all out or embrace the DIY spirit, your wedding day is about celebrating your love, and that's something money can't buy.