How to Save Money on a Wedding

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in your life—but it can also be one of the most expensive. As you dive into the world of venues, décor, dresses, and guest lists, you might wonder how to save money on a wedding without compromising the magic of your big day.

At Enso, we’re all about combining affordability and quality. That's why we've assembled this list of 155 ways to save money on your wedding. Ready to say “I do” to savings? Let’s get started.

Cost-Effective Invitation Tips

Craft personalized DIY invitations.
Opt for digital invites from free or low-cost providers.
Skip the save-the-dates.
Create a free wedding website.
Keep invitations simple and elegant.
Use stylish online templates.
Steer clear of custom printing.
Utilize convenient online RSVPs.
Limit the guest list to close friends and family.

Unique and Inexpensive Venue Ideas

Rent a venue with natural beauty like a charming plant nursery or botanical garden.
Opt for a unique, nontraditional venue like an art gallery or lakeside.
Select a venue that allows BYO options for more flexibility.
Pick a venue that provides tables and chairs.
Choose a venue with in-house catering services.
Go for a venue with built-in lighting.
Select a venue with a fully equipped kitchen.
Host your wedding in a picturesque public park.
Use a family member’s home or backyard.
Rent a charming vacation home as the venue.
Pick a venue with minimal rental requirements.
Choose a venue close to home to save on travel and lodging expenses.
Opt for a beautiful public venue.
Select a venue with an excellent sound system.
Pick a venue with built-in features.
Choose a venue with comprehensive amenities.
Opt for a venue surrounded by natural scenery.
Select a venue with stylish built-in décor.
Host your wedding on a scenic public beach.
Pick a venue with a simple and elegant backdrop.
Host an intimate backyard wedding.
Shop around and view multiple venue options to find the best deal.
Negotiate with vendors.
Choose an off-peak season for your wedding date.
Select the same venue for the ceremony and reception.
Opt for a simple courthouse or city hall wedding.
Schedule your wedding on a weekday.
Opt for a morning or afternoon ceremony.
Avoid costly destination weddings.
Steer clear of holiday weekends.

Save More on Flowers and Décor

Choose fresh, local, and seasonal flowers.
Opt for wood or silk flowers for elegant and budget-friendly décor and bouquets.
Get creative with DIY decorations.
Enhance the ambiance with candles or lanterns.
Grow your own flowers for personalized décor and bouquets.
Craft your own stunning bouquets.
Incorporate reusable décor items.
Skip custom signage.
Choose a simple wedding arch.
Keep centerpieces modest and elegant.
Select simple and chic tablecloths.
Decorate with natural elements like wood slices, stones, and pinecones for a rustic vibe.
Use mason jars for charming, rustic centerpieces.
Create a magical atmosphere with string or fairy lights.
Opt for simple and elegant table settings.
Utilize a rental service for cost-effective décor.
Find budget-friendly decorations with online deals.
Design your own unique centerpieces.
Incorporate seasonal fruits for vibrant décor.
Choose simple place cards.
Avoid over-the-top decorations for a clean look.
Embrace a minimalist theme for a timeless feel.
Craft your own boutonnieres for a personal touch.
Use a simple or natural backdrop.
Shop at secondhand stores and secondhand wedding décor shops.
Hunt for sales and clearance items for great deals on décor.
Incorporate seashells for a charming beach-themed wedding.
DIY your wedding favors for a personal touch.

Cost-Saving Attire Solutions

Borrow or rent wedding attire.
Score a pre-owned wedding dress—Facebook Marketplace FTW.
Shop sample sales for incredible wedding attire deals.
Choose attire that is simple yet elegant.
Keep the bridal party small, or consider skipping it altogether.
Avoid custom wedding or bridesmaid dresses.
Adorn yourself with cherished family heirloom jewelry.
Choose casual attire for a relaxed and comfortable vibe.
Select simple and meaningful wedding bands.
Create your own beautiful veil.
Borrow dazzling jewelry from friends and family.
Choose personalized silicone rings for a unique touch.
Enlist a friend for hair and makeup.
Skip elaborate hairpieces for a minimalist look.
Opt for a simple yet beautiful wedding hairstyle.
Consider a formal dress that isn’t labeled as a wedding dress.
Rent stunning bridal accessories.
Buy gently used wedding shoes.
Skip the train on the dress.
Find a well-fitting dress that needs only minor alterations.
Support local artisans for unique jewelry.

Drinks and Dining on a Budget

Host a dessert-only reception.
Opt for a buffet instead of a plated dinner.
Limit alcohol choices to beer and wine.
Select in-season food items.
Incorporate cherished family recipes.
Hire a trendy food truck.
Have a potluck-style reception.
Serve a signature cocktail.
Provide a cash bar.
Order your cake from a supermarket bakery.
Choose a single-tier wedding cake—or just skip it.
Pick a smaller cutting cake and sheet cakes for guests.
Delight guests with cupcakes or donuts.
Opt for simple and affordable catering options.
Host a charming wedding brunch.
Simplify the menu for easy preparation.
Serve family-style meals.
Offer punch or mocktails.
Choose local food vendors.
Host a casual wedding reception.
Offer a soup and salad bar.
Have a friend tend bar.
Skip the champagne toast.

Entertainment Tips for Every Budget

Opt for a curated playlist over live music.
Have a friend act as host for the event.
Skip the professional photo booth and go DIY.
Entertain guests with backyard games like cornhole.
Set up a karaoke machine for lively fun.
Organize a musical chairs scavenger hunt.
Showcase a heartfelt slideshow of your journey together.
Host a trivia game about the couple.
Create a craft station to keep kids engaged.
Set up a cozy campfire for storytelling and s’mores.
Use a projector to screen an outdoor movie.
Hire a local comedian for some laughs.
Create a time capsule with guests’ messages.
Have a friend DJ your wedding.
Use affordable music services like Spotify or Apple Music.

Extra Ways to Save on Your Wedding

Use a free wedding registry service.
Ask a talented friend to handle videography.
Utilize a friend’s photography skills.
Provide disposable cameras for candid guest photos.
Have a friend or family member officiate your ceremony.
Keep the ceremony brief and memorable.
Use personal vehicles for transportation.
Avoid luxury transportation options.
Plan well in advance to avoid last-minute expenses.
Create your own unique guest book.
Skip hiring a wedding planner.
Avoid peak honeymoon seasons.
Travel locally for a budget-friendly honeymoon.
Book your honeymoon early to secure the best deals.
Use credit card points to fund your honeymoon.
Skip destination bridal showers.
Forgo the engagement party.
Combine the bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Utilize digital planning tools for organization.
Keep the bridal party small.
Consider a last-minute wedding to take advantage of cancelled dates.
Choose a budget-friendly honeymoon destination.
Skip the bridal shower.
Use a digital guest book.
Forgo pre-wedding parties.

Seal the Deal with Affordable Elegance

Your wedding day is about celebrating love and creating unforgettable memories. Now that you’ve learned how to save money on a wedding, focus on what truly matters: the joy of uniting with your partner and sharing this special moment with loved ones.

When it comes to the big moment, ditch tradition and save money with silicone Enso Rings. Our customized engraving options allow you to make your rings uniquely yours. Shop Enso silicone wedding rings today and cherish the moments that matter most.