Best Money Saving Tips for Your Happily Ever After
Wedding bells in your future? Congratulations! Planning for your big day is an exciting time. If you’re like most couples that can’t afford a wedding like Ambani’s $600-million celebration and are looking to save as much money as possible, we’ve got you! Start your happily ever after with RVCU’s wedding saving tips on the top wedding expenses.
Brides that budget
First things first – let’s budget! Setting a realistic budget that accounts for pre-wedding fun such as bridal showers, bachelorette/bachelor parties, reception and of course your wedding day is the first step in making sure you stick with what you can spend. In 2024, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,000, that’s $4,000 higher than it was last year. Of course, factors such as venue, location and guests can make this number go up or down.
Deciding how you will finance your wedding is also important. Will you use a personal loan, have family help pay for your wedding, or use a low-interest credit card? Having these conversations with an RVCU Certified Financial Coach can help you set yourself up for a great start with your future Mrs. or Mr.
Save (on) the date!
Thursdays and Fridays are the new Saturdays. Switching your celebration day to a weekday can be a big cost saver. Most venues also offer discounts during their off-season, which is typically in the winter. Even switching your rehearsal to a weekday can save you hundreds.
Location, location, location
Venues such as vacation homes or restaurants can be great alternatives to have your wedding. These nontraditional spaces can be transformed to fit your vision of your dream wedding. Best of all, these locations will have tables, chairs, linens and even décor already included with your rental.
Say “yes” to the dress – that saves you $$
Bridal dresses can come with a hefty price tag. You can save big when you shop at consignment stores, sample dresses and even at department stores. Sure, you will likely need alterations done but you’ll enjoy saving big just from buying preowned or unaltered. Something borrowed? Yes, please! Wearing jewelry or accessories that are loaned to you by someone you care for not only can be meaningful but also provide extra savings.
Food and bubbly
Food and drinks can eat away at your budget (literally). When talking to caterers, ask for buffet options and a simple dessert menu. Late-night snacks are a wedding trend that most guests feel is unnecessary, and don’t always get eaten, so don’t feel bad if you skip it. Simplifying your drink menu by offering only a signature cocktail and not having an open bar seems like a no-brainer and will still be appreciated by your guests.
A toast to you!
Feeling financially confident as you plan for your big day is what we at RVCU are here for. We’d love to bring your vision to life and are honored to be a part of this big milestone. From walking down the aisle to all of life’s adventures, you can be sure that we’ve got your back in providing you with the best advice. Get started today by meeting with a Certified Financial Coach and know that you’ll have a partner in your financial future.