Weddings are a time for celebration and fun, but usually at an enormous financial cost. Helping your client to plan their dream day on a nightmare of a budget is possible with some innovation and sacrifices. Here’s how:
Set Priorities
Prepare your client ahead of time for the possibility of having to decide against some features for the sake of saving money. Once they understand the process of prioritising their wants and needs, they will be better equipped and prepared to omit what is not entirely necessary. Initially, the biggest and best may have been deemed necessary, but once it is clear that there are equally good (if not better) options, these may not seem so important.
Cut Down
Weddings tend to be big in terms of the services, amenities and added extras, and for good reason – this is a very special day. However, by minimising certain aspects of the day, you will save a lot of money. Examples include:
- Flowers – guests will not notice fewer flowers around the venue or on tables, but your bank balance will be far more optimistic! Use single stems instead of large arrangements, or leave the flowers altogether and opt for walking a pet down the aisle, holding a balloon or a beautiful feather, or simply folding your hands in a relaxed manner for a really simple look.
- Transport – the hire of vintage or luxury cars can get really costly. While these are always great additions, they are not necessary. Rather, ask a friend with a new or special car if your client can borrow it for the day, or simply do something that is completely different – like walk to the reception venue with the wedding guests, if it is close enough. Be creative.
- Say no to extras – there are many little extras that seem like a great idea, but are expensive in the long run. These can usually be left out, without much or any effect on the overall look and feel of the wedding day. Some of these extras include Save a Dates, programmes, expensive guest favours, designer napkins, and so on.
- The wedding cake – although a traditional favourite, wedding cakes are becoming more and more costly. Consider asking a friend or family member to bake a cake, or opt for a cheese platter for something memorable.
- Buy as many used (pre-loved, if you prefer) items as possible, including bridal wear and décor items. Shop at antique stores and look online for cheaper deals. Borrowing things like shoes, accessories and jewellery from friends will also save a great deal.
Use Available Resources
Your client is sure to know or have contact with a number of people that can help. Use these contacts effectively. Have your client request guests with the know-how to make their wedding cake, gown, guest favours, and so on. Many of these resources may even do it in lieu of a wedding gift. Your clients’ professional contacts and network may also include useful resources for all sorts of wedding-related services (such as a venue, caterer, decorator, etc…).
Use Your Creativity
It is your job, as the event planner, to come up with innovative ways that your client can enjoy their dream day at a specific budget. So, try to think laterally, not confined to the usual conventions of wedding planning. Here are some suggestions:
- Have the wedding on a weekday or a Sunday, when more venues are readily available, and sometimes at cheaper rates.
- Choose a wedding date in winter (out of season).
- Explore unusual venues, such as universities and schools.
- Choose a venue that includes catering and décor in their venue hire cost.
- Opt for chicken, rather than red meat.
- Choose a laptop hooked up to a good amp and speakers, rather than a formal band.
- Have a brunch or breakfast rather than a dinner, as the food is lighter and, therefore, not as expensive.
Photo Credit: Neil Cuninghame
