Is your fall wedding fast approaching? Even if it’s scheduled for the 2018 season, you’re no doubt already putting plans together. If you’re wondering where to cut costs for your fall wedding, look no further. Let the five tips below help you save money and still plan your dream wedding.
1. Use Flowers in Season
Floral arrangements are one of the more expensive pieces in a wedding. Take advantage of seasonal plants and fauna to avoid extra shipping charges for flowers that aren’t so readily available. Opt for wildflowers and plants that are locally grown during the autumn season, which the florist is sure to have available.
You could even swap flowers for succulents as an alternative to the traditional flower theme. Try berries and other fall décor to minimize your budget.
2. Cut the Guest List
Shrinking the guest list is one of the easiest ways to save money, because your guest list affects so many parts of the budget. From the catering head count to the number of table centerpieces, a smaller guest list means a reduced number of other wedding items. Each guest factors into the cost in some way, so there’s no need to be shy when it comes to separating who you really want at the wedding from who has to pass.
Think hard about who’s currently in your life and your relationship with them to determine if they’re worthy of an invitation. An intimate fall wedding is a lovely alternative to a big showcase.
3. Consider a Daytime Reception
Instead of paying for the expensive Saturday night wedding, which is peak time, you can hold the reception in the afternoon. Sunday afternoon makes for a peaceful and serene event with fewer expected fees.
Daytime receptions are just as romantic, and at a fraction of the cost, they still allow you and your guests to soak up the sun setting earlier in the changing season. You generally don’t need a full bar, and on-site venue caterers can usually offer popular menu options. Off-season wedding times in the fall are always likely to save costs in the rest of the wedding budget, as less people overall are getting married during this time of the year.
4. Localize the Menu
Think about what’s currently in season and discuss these options with the caterer to source meats and produce from local vendors and farmers instead of shipping in frozen food. Not only will you save money, you’ll enjoy fresh-tasting food from nearby sources instead of out-of-the-box packaged meals.
Offer salads and fruits that are currently available on the farm and fresh from markets in the fall season. Ask caterers where they source their ingredients to ensure the freshest options are brought to the table, creating a menu that’s flavourful (and saves a few dollars in the budget).
Think of all the wonderful harvest foods out there. Fruit pies, squash, spices that reflect the season… Bring these to your table and you’re sure to impress your guests.
5. Space Out Your Budget
You want your fall wedding to be the wedding of your dreams. The only thing stopping you is the price tag. When divvying up the wedding costs, think about what’s really important to have in your wedding and what deserves a pass.
Having a band or a DJ might not be a big deal Maybe you’re content to plug your iPod into the sound system, or let Spotify playlists roll all night. A full bar might not be at the top of the priority list, and instead you choose to offer beer, wine, and one signature cocktail instead. Perhaps the champagne toast seems unnecessary, leading to another reduced costs where the money can be put towards food or decorations instead.
Decide what’s important to you and allocate your funds accordingly. Plan your fall wedding the way you want and enjoy your special day.
