1. Create a comparison chart: This is a perfect way to track what’s included in the price for each venue you are considering. For example, one venue may include linens, cake, etc. and another may not.
2. Hold your ceremony and reception in the same place: This will save you multiple site fees as well as transportation from one location to another for both you and your guests.
3. Venue Location: Depending on your venue, you may not need to decorate extensively. For example holding your wedding ceremony and reception at a golf course/country club will greatly reduce the need to decorate the room when you have a gorgeous golf course as your backdrop.
4. Look for Reception Packages: Holding your event at a venue that provides catering and food service items along with staffing will save you quite a bit on rentals!
5. Consider the Season: You are likely to get discounted pricing for a wedding in January vs. a wedding in June.
6. Stick to your Budget: Determine early on in planning your event what your budget will be and stick to it! One rule of thumb to keep in mind is food, beverage and venue will likely be about ½ of your entire budget.
7. Public Spaces: Many public spaces like parks may be available to rent at a low fee, but keep in mind that if they are not equipped to handle events, you will have to rent everything from napkins to tables and chairs. These costs will quickly add up!
8. Get Organized: Buy a notebook and separate it into sections for each budget category. This way you can write down the amount you want to spend on the item and then note your expenditures. As you near your limits, you can start to figure out ways to cut costs.
9. Avoid Impulse Buying: Do you have everything on your list? Then stop shopping! If you find yourself with a little extra after everything has been accounted for…save it or put it towards a little something special on your honeymoon.
10. Limit your guest list: You want to invite everyone you know to share in this very special day, but if you do you will most certainly spend far more than your budget allows. Keep your guest list limited to family and close friends. This will save you a fortune!

You can use our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide to create a detailed wedding budget so that nothing sneaks up on you.  Click Here To Download The Best Wedding Planning Guide.

An Example of a Typical Wedding Budget:

• Reception 40-50%
• Honeymoon 15%
• Photography/Videography 10%
• Wedding attire 10-15%
• Flowers 10%
• Music 5%
• Invitations/Thank You Cards 2%
• Miscellaneous 10%