Are you facing a dilemma with a dream venue that's pricier than expected?
Are you determined to have a top-tier menu but need to cut costs elsewhere?
Since 2010, Zion Springs has seen the importance of staying informed about wedding expenses. Here are some expert tips on how to economize and budget wisely.
If you haven’t read it yet, check out How to save money on your wedding – Part 1 Before the big day where you can check out the average prices for Northern Virginia and some recommendations on how to save your money during your wedding planning.
4 Ways to Save Money at Your Wedding Venue
The average cost of a wedding in Northern Virginia is $60,000, as reported by The Wedding Report, choosing an all-inclusive venue can save money and time as many of your costly items are already included in the price.
1. Consider an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue
Average cost $30,000 (venue, food, beverages) - $80,000 (and everything else)
This is ideal if you are on a tight budget. You might have initial sticker shock until you compare the final costs to a multiple-vendor wedding.
Why it might be right for you:
2. Get Creative with Your Wedding Flowers and Decorations
Average cost $3,200
3. Catering Your Wedding
Average cost $75 per guest
Start by trimming your guest list. While it might be tempting to invite everyone from your newborn mother’s group to your current coworkers, reducing the number of guests is a key way to cut costs. Consider whether you can afford to include plus-ones for guests who are unmarried, engaged, or in long-term relationships.
Today, catering companies are more familiar with couples wanting to personalize their menus, and many are foregoing the traditional wedding banquet.
Some ideas are:
Something else to consider:
- Choose food that is in season.
- Limit the number of entrée options. Keep your menu simple and delicious.
- Instead of an open bar, consider offering a signature cocktail. If you plan to party all night, beer and wine are much easier on your budget than spirits.
- Skip the champagne for the toast; guests can use the beverage they already have in hand.
4. Save Money on the Wedding Cake
Average cost $650
Instead of a multi-tiered wedding cake extravaganza, consider a smaller cake for display and cutting, while serving guests from a classic sheet cake. Most people won’t notice or mind, as long as it’s delicious.
Costco is known for its huge, tasty sheet cakes, and your local grocery store likely has great options too. Just keep in mind that some venues charge a cake-cutting fee, so it might be worth getting a pre-cut cake.
Alternatively, you can serve ice cream cake, cupcakes, or donuts instead of a traditional cake, making your wedding cake the main dessert.
Naked cakes (without multiple layers of icing) have gained in popularity due to their trendy look. And go with buttercream icing instead of the more expensive fondant.
Wedding Day Savings
Planning your wedding can be challenging, especially when costs add up quickly. But with a few smart choices, like opting for an all-inclusive venue, selecting seasonal flowers, and simplifying your menu, you can save money without sacrificing your vision.
At Zion Springs, we've been guiding couples since 2010, and we're passionate about helping you make informed decisions.
For more tips, visit our Answers and Advice page and explore ways to plan a beautiful, budget-friendly wedding.
Photos in this article are courtesy of Zion Springs' in-house photographer.
