An affordable premium wedding
It's an event that you have been waiting for - your wedding. Or if it is for us ethnic people, it is a few events you have been waiting for (given that it goes for a few days!). However, it is no surprise that hosting a wedding can rack up a pretty bill. Did you know the average cost of a wedding is around $35,000? The day is all about you, yet you are spending on everyone else.
Like most of us, we want that premium wedding look, but not with the premium price tag. I will walk you through four tips to stay control of your budget, so that guilt does not settle in.
Tip 1 - Establish your budget
I have heard the joke of "you can't stay on budget if you don't have one". Yet, this is not the reality for most of us. You may think that your wedding budget should only include the wedding day itself, however this is where people go wrong. Your budget should include everything starting from the engagement ring. After all, most (but not all) share their expenses with partner when they get married. So it should start right at the proposal.
Budgeting should also include events such as a bridal shower, guest accommodation (if you are paying for it), and yes, it also includes the dress.
Tip 2 - Splurge items
It is completely ok to have some splurge items, as long as this fits into your budget and aligns with your values. For example, if you want a particular decorator which will enhance the aesthetics of your day, which is stretching the budget, however is a non-negotiable for you - then do it! There are many more items on the wedding list which you can find more affordable alternatives for, which can help to compensate for your non-negotiable items.
Tip 3 - Identify cost-saving items
So you have now identified your splurge items. But what about your cost-saving items? Now, when you hear the term cost-saving, I don't want you to think cheap. Think alternative. For example, you know those lavish 'find your seat' signs? They are pretty expensive. You can save hundreds of dollars by doing this yourself. How? Canva. layout your seating chart here, which is also convenient when you want to make last minute changes. They even have some impressive templates so you don't have to start from scratch! Then get it printed out at Vista Prints or somewhere similar. There you go. You save hundreds and still maintain that premium look.
Tip 4 - Etsy
Etsy is a global marketplace for creatives which hosts many vendors appropriate for weddings. It definitely could fit into tip 3 as it can save you a lot of moola. However, it really deserves a section for itself.
Etsy has everything from weddings favours, to invite templates. They host a multitude of affordable options and you can find a bargain!
Vendors work with you very closely and can provide some unique products for you. Moreover, they are a small business that you get to support, so that in itself is pretty special.
Tip 5 - Facebook Marketplace
I absolutely love Facebook Marketplace. I get a high when I either sell an item or find an item that I have been manifesting.
There are plenty of Perth wedding pages where previous bride and grooms are selling items they didn't end up using or simply selling them for a discounted price. Not only are you saving money - but you are being sustainable. And guess what? You can resell it once you are finished!
