Wedding Preps Series: An Awesome Wedding Need Not Be Super Expensive

Every girl dreams of being a bride on her own fairy tale wedding.  As I grow up and take on adult responsibilities, realizations dawned on me that it is not practical to splurge most of our hard-earned money for a one-day event. Yes, it may be one of the most important days of our lives, but I cannot bear the thought of spending half a million bucks just for that. I just can't.  

Before I begin, let me clarify that this is my opinion and I truly respect the opinions of others who'd rather have grand weddings. Many believe that it's a once in a lifetime event, which is true, and worth-splurging for. Dream weddings vary and do what makes you happy.

Now that I am clear with that and hopefully no bride-to-be's will bash me, I will begin...

Last year I bought a condo unit and, of course, I am paying for its amortization. With that being said, I do not have the liberty now of splurging on unnecessary things.  I grew up being money-wise, thanks to my mom. I usually do not splurge on expensive things even if I have money to do so. I have never in my life experienced being "broke" or short of cash because I always make saving a priority. (Plus the fact that I do not pay for rent, food, power bills, etc. right now) With a condo unit I am paying for, it would be impractical to do a really expensive wedding.

Luckily, I have always imagined my wedding to be a small one, intimate rather than grand.  Surrounded only by our closest family and friends. That's my dream wedding.

Three principles I am sticking with:

1. Spend on what matters
2. Maximize your budget
3. Creativity is the key

Even if we have the money to spend for a grand wedding, I don't think I will want to. That's how I am.
I believe that with creativity (and help of awesome creative friends) and right prioritization of spends, an awesome wedding on a budget is not impossible to pull of.  For example, do spend on what your guests will really notice like the catering and reception venue. Cut on those things that will not be noticed anyway, like invites (I am planning to do e-invites only, except for principal sponsors and close families), bridal car, flowers in church, etc.  I am NOT saying forego them completely, just don't spend too much on them. Also, there's really no need to get top of the line photo and video coverage or hair & make-up artist, unless you're a celeb and you need to impress others or need to live up to certain standards.

Be involved in forums about wedding preps and suppliers. Be in-the-know of the upcoming bridal fairs where discounts and freebies await. Be equipped with knowledge. It will surely help in getting the most out of your budget. Be wise and maximize your money!

I have set a budget which is rather low than standard. And I will try my best to stick to it. Really, creativity and resourcefulness are two very important factors to lower the wedding budget.  DIYs are great examples and  I am really excited to make them!  Just let your imagination run free. Look around you. Research. There are lots of things you can do to make an awesome wedding!

If you are reading this and you also plan on doing a budget wedding, hope this helps.

Join my journey in realizing this goal through my Wedding Preps Series. And do not hesitate to message me on Facebook or send me an email at niquedejesus-blog@yahoo.com. Let's talk about our wedding preps! ♥

See all wedding preps series posts.

See also posts from travel, food and health & beauty. Enjoy!