Last Updated on December 28, 2021 by Guillermina
Today, we’re going to look at how to plan a destination wedding on a small budget. Destination weddings have become increasingly popular in recent years. And whether you have an expensive wedding or a wedding on a strict budget – it’s still possible to have the destination wedding of your dreams. Let’s take a look at how to make the most of your budget when planning a destination wedding.
Why Have A Destination Wedding?
Make no mistake, it’s definitely more difficult to plan a destination wedding than a traditional wedding. Usually, everything is within a reachable distance, and it doesn’t take the amount of planning that a destination wedding requires. However, a destination wedding seems more romantic and not just a getaway for your guests, but for you too. Especially if it’s a place that’s special to you both as a couple.
Tips and Tricks To Utilize Your Wedding Budget
There are many ways to make the most out of whatever budget you have, so let’s take a closer look at our top tips and ideas for a destination wedding on a budget.
Decide on a Budget
The budget is, without doubt, the most important aspect of your wedding planning – and the first thing you should decide on. Without a budget price, it’s impossible to plan a wedding. Make a rough estimate of what you’re willing to spend on each section of your wedding (food, drinks, venue, dress, etc.) and go from there.
Choose a Location
A destination wedding cost will all depend on where you choose to get married. Destinations such as the Caribbean and Mexico will be more expensive as they’re sought-after locations. However, for cheap destination weddings, try looking for somewhere closer to home – or somewhere that isn’t typically known for being a wedding hotspot.
Plan Ahead with Plenty of Time
The more time you have to plan, the easier the process will be. And usually, the more in advance you book, the cheaper the deals you can obtain. Be sure to shop around and compare prices at different venues to ensure you’re getting the most from your budget. It’s much easier to make changes when things are already booked, so if you want to change anything nearer the time, you can.
Cut Vendors You Don’t Need
This may seem like a ruthless one, but it is an important one. Do you need a photographer and a videographer? Do you need a 3-course sit-down meal? The answers will be different for every couple, so choose what are the most important aspects of your day, and work from there. It’ll be easier to cut out certain vendors than you may think! And truly, you only need you and your partner to make your wedding day magical.
Choose a Date Wisely
If you’re traveling during the holiday season or peak wedding season, you’ll definitely be paying more – so try to book in quieter months. Or maybe even opt for a week-day wedding, this will cut the price dramatically, rather than having your wedding at the weekend.
Check for Packages
Whether this is travel packages for you and your guests, hotel packages for your wedding party, or wedding packages in general – make sure you check for them! Package deals are always the best value for money, and most companies will offer them. Be sure to enquire as you may be missing out on a great deal that could save you thousands!
Think About Décor
Another way to be ruthless is with décor. Do you need all those flowers? Do you need oversized neon letters? Try to be simplistic with your decorations. They can become really expensive, very quickly. So focus on the most important decorations that you’d like, and go from there.
Keep the Guest List Small
This is a simple one, but the more guests – the higher the price. So if you try to limit your guest list as much as possible, it will help to reduce the venue and catering costs massively. Try to invite your nearest and dearest, and have a second celebration closer to home once you’re back. That way, you get the best of both worlds!
Consider Rate Variations
Depending on where you are in the world, and the time of year of your wedding will mean a real variation in prices. There are a few things to keep in mind, such as:
- Big cities will be more expensive than towns or villages, so stay away from them if you can
- During the week will always be cheaper than Friday, Saturday or Sunday
- Always choose off peak seasons if you can
- If the flowers you’re looking for aren’t in season, be prepared to pay significantly more than you usually would
- Bar rates differ in every venue, so be sure to shop around
- Photographers can be extremely expensive, so this is another aspect to be sure to shop around for
Buy in Bulk
The more of anything you buy, the cheaper it will be. Whether it’s plane tickets, hotel rooms, catering, cutlery – whatever you can buy in bulk, go for it! It’ll work out much better value in the long run.
If you’re looking for more tips to save on décor, food and drinks, outfits, etc., be sure to visit wedmegood, as they have some amazing advice for budget weddings!
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with how to plan a destination wedding on a small budget. It’s definitely possible, so try not to get too disheartened if you don’t find what you’re looking for instantly. Shop around, as making the most of your money and finding cheaper alternatives can take time.
Did you have a destination wedding on a small budget? How did you navigate it? If you have any tips or tricks, please feel free to share them below. You may be helping out future couples with their destination wedding!