We love to have big elaborate weddings or at least get invited to them. But aren’t they often too expensive? The good news is that you could have a perfect wedding without spending a fortune? Wedding planning on a budget isn’t just logical – it’s doable. In fact, there’s no need to go into debt over a wedding. Instead, set yourselves up for success by considering your wedding budget early, planning strategically, and keeping an eye on your finances—all while making sure your biggest priorities are accounted for. And of course, you’ll want a little extra available when it’s all said and done for your dream honeymoon!
Here are a few tips to help keep you on budget.
- Start Dreaming
Before you talk money, sit down with your partner and imagine your dream wedding. Is there a venue or location you love? Would you rather have a seated dinner or an energetic cocktail reception? Will a band or a DJ bring everyone to the dance floor? And don’t forget to think about your honeymoon! Write down the things that are most important, then keep them in mind as you start to plan your budget. - Examine Your Finances
If you’re paying for some (or all) of the wedding yourselves, take a look at your savings accounts. How much is available to spend right now? How much more can you save between now and your wedding day? And how much are you willing to spend? If your family is going to contribute, talk to them about how much they’re comfortable adding to your budget. Pick a number that works for everyone—and be sure to save some extra for your honeymoon, as well as miscellaneous or surprise costs. - Schedule Automatic Transfers
The easiest way to save money from every paycheck is to designate a portion that will automatically transfer to your savings account. That way, you won’t be tempted to spend it during your bachelorette weekend! - Create a Thorough Budget
Use a budget calculator to make sure you’re covering all of the necessary expenses. Tweak the amounts and percentages until they fit your total budget. And don’t forget those priorities you outlined in step one: Play with your budget so you can earmark a little extra cash to spring for that amazing band or an upgraded bar package. - Separate the budget accordingly
Separating the budget accordingly means that you know where the money is allocated and it gives you a little bit of leeway to adjust your price on each aspect. But, never hire a bad photographer simply because they are cheap. They will give you poor pictures – everything else may just be for the day, but those wedding photos will last forever! - Set Up a Honey-fund
While you’ve already set aside some cash for your big trip, use your Honeyfund as a way to supplement your savings and turn this into the trip of a lifetime. Start planning, listing out all of the exciting experiences you’re hoping to have so that guests can contribute to a couples’ massage, a romantic dinner on the beach, or an upgrade to first class. This way, they can celebrate you with a gift as well as enjoy playing a role in your dream trip! - Pick the cheapest time to get married
When you decide to get married can make an even bigger impact than where you decide to get married. Choosing to get married in the middle of the week or on a Sunday, compared to a Saturday wedding could save you a small fortune. Similarly, picking a date in the other months could also see big savings coming in when compared to a wedding in the summer months or during Christmas. - Choose your venue carefully
You can have an amazing budget weddings if you pick the right location – often, somewhere you wouldn’t typically consider. There are lots of venues around the country that are licensed to hold marriage ceremonies, why not pick something a little bit different? This holds two benefits really – your special day is truly special in a unique location and these venues tend to be a lot more affordable than places which are booked up years and months in advance! Some of the best budget wedding venues in Ghana are still yet to be discovered… you could just be one of the first people married there. - Can you scrap the DJ (and/live band)?
Cheap wedding DJs are the worst! Instead of forking out your hard earned cash on someone who will just play a generic wedding music playlist, why not create your own playlist with all your favourite songs? You probably already have one – plug this into some speakers and you’re good to go! Of course, if you and your guests are big on music and dancing, then by all means, have a DJ.
Other tips?
- Start paying early to get discounts
- Shop for things early to get discount
- Ask family and friends to chip in with some services (DJ, Ushering, Car etc.)
- Have wedding and reception at your church if suitable
- Honeymoon locations (great locations in Ghana to avoid cost of flight)