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When planning a wedding, money may start to feel like it’s just disappearing — but it doesn’t have to! Passing on unnecessary wedding expenses is one way to ensure your wedding will meet the budget or maybe even be under!

1. Favors. The cost of favors can add up really quickly if your guest list is long. Think of it this way, on average, a favor can cost anywhere from $3 to 10+ each! So why not spend the money on a photo booth (guests can take home the pictures as a favor)? Guess who does photobooths?! US! And with our photobooths, you and your guests can take unlimited photos. That means they can use any of the props we provide and can take home as many photos as they can take to remember your special day; sounds like a good favor to me!

2. Full bar. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t provide any beverages at your wedding; we’re just suggesting you skip trying to afford a full bar or even try paying to an open bar. Instead, pick one red, one white, a couple of beers, and a signature cocktail. Or, buy just a couple of different spirits and mixers along with beer and wine.

3. Champagne toast. The champagne toast may seem like a no-brainer, but purchasing the alcohol and renting the toasting flutes can get very pricey, very quickly. Be sure to ask your venue or catering hall if they include this in their price (most places include it).

4. Programs and menu cards. If you love pretty paper and there is room for it in your budget, go for it! First, the order of events at a wedding is pretty standard: Ceremony, cocktail hour, reception. Your guests don’t need to have a schedule for YOUR big day. If you need to point people in the right direction, post a big sign that all guests can refer to. If you want to say something special about your wedding party or a family member, you can do so on your wedding website or in your speech. As far as menu cards: your guests can ask servers at the buffet or see what’s on the plate when it arrives.

5. Chair covers. More than likely, the chairs provided by your venue will be clean and stable. We suggest you consider making DIY chair ribbons or hanging floral garlands across the back. OR…save that money and put it towards some cool LED furniture!

6. Manolo Blahniks (or any other crazy-expensive designer shoes). We dreamed of the “Sex and the City” wedding as much as you did, but guess what!? Wearing cobalt blue Jimmy Choo’s is not a necessity. You’ll feel just as special, tall and stunning in a pair of shoes that didn’t cost the same amount as your dress.

P.S. – these cute wedding booties are $79.99!

7. Flowers. Have an open mind and include non-florals, like lanterns or candles. Flowers are at every wedding because they’re beautiful and give that special touch. But, this doesn’t mean you have to go all out and spend thousands on flowers. Be different!

Let’s plan an awesome wedding together and save you some money in the meantime!

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