You’re engaged! Now it is time to start planning the big day – the venue, the flowers, the photographer, the caterer…oh my. Yes, there’s certainly a price tag that goes along with a wedding, BUT, there are ways to prioritize your budget so you can afford the wedding of your dreams. Follow these tips below on where to save and where to splurge while planning your wedding…
Where to Save
The Décor: Believe it or not, some of our favorite weddings have been less lavish and more creative (and budget-friendly!) in terms of décor. Simple, minimalistic touches like all white color story with a few accent colors such as gold, grass green or blush have a big impact while using a small budget. Here’s a good rule of thumb – the less your décor relies on flowers, the more affordable – and interesting – it can be. Incorporate non-floral elements into your bouquets and centerpieces, such as air plants, fruit, branches, even feathers. Another budget friendly approach? Candles! Add clusters of candles in varying sizes and heights or use floating candles in clear, water-filled bowls. Websites such as Pinterest will also provide tons of ideas in terms of budget-friendly inspiration for wedding décor. And when you host your wedding at Castle Farms, the beauty of the Castle provides an elegant backdrop that doesn’t need a lot of “dressing up” to make it perfect for your big day.
The Guest List: When you’re in love, you want to share it with the world. We totally get it! However, the larger the guest list, the bigger the expense. It is so important to base your guest list on the price point that you know you can afford – even if it means having to make cuts.
The Date: Another easy way to save is by choosing the right date. If you are getting married during peak season, do so on a Friday or Sunday. If you are set on having a Saturday wedding, consider having the event out of peak season. To learn more about available dates at discounted rates, schedule an appointment with one of our expert Venue Coordinators at Castle Farms.
The Cake: One of our favorite cost-cutting trends is with the cake! Instead of a costly traditional wedding cake, the bride and groom have their own mini-wedding cake, while each reception table has its own cake that serves as an edible centerpiece – a fun and interactive twist on the wedding cake – genius! Or – skip the cake altogether and offer a dessert bar that is yummy without breaking the bank.
Where to Splurge
The Venue: The wedding venue should be top priority when planning your wedding. It should be a place that speaks to you, one that allows you to tell your love story and express your personality and unique style. At Castle Farms, we offer a stunning environment for every style and size of wedding – from elegant garden rooms to regal stone-featured rooms, with the flexibility to choose your own vendors – making it easier to meet your budget and have the wedding of your dreams.
The Planner: While allotting a huge amount of your budget to a wedding planner is unrealistic, think twice before skipping a planner altogether. You may consider hiring one for the day of the wedding. By doing so, it will allow you and your fiancé the freedom to enjoy your wedding day rather than being distracted by the schedule, vendors and any unpredictable logistical issues. When you book a venue at Castle Farms, you will have a designated Venue Coordinator who will start reviewing your weddings plans with you two months prior to the big day. This will become your go-to Castle team member for all your venue needs – prior to and on the day of the event. In addition, you will have an assistant Venue Coordinator who will take care of the little things i.e. keeping the restrooms stocked, making sure the room temperature remains comfortable and making sure the vendor’s needs are taken care of.
The Photographer: Always, always hire the best photographer you can afford – even if it means making major cuts to other areas of your budget. You only have one shot at capturing these priceless wedding moments, so don’t take a chance on hiring a photographer that is just okay.
If you are interested in learning more about any of our exquisite wedding venues at Castle Farms, please contact us today at (231) 237-0884!