Wedding planning can be an exciting journey, but it’s easy to get carried away when trying to save money. While saving is important, some “cheap” decisions can end up costing you much more in the long run. As a professional with years of experience in wedding photography, planning, and consulting, I’ve seen countless couples make these seemingly small mistakes that result in added stress and unexpected costs. Here’s a guide to avoid the cheap mistakes that might cost you a fortune on your wedding day.
1. Skimping on photography and videography
One of the most important aspects of your wedding day is capturing memories. It’s tempting to hire an inexpensive photographer or videographer, but the results can be disastrous. Low-budget photographers might not have the expertise to capture your wedding with the artistic skill or technical precision that’s needed for an event as important as your wedding.
Why this is a costly mistake: not only can poor quality photos and videos leave you disappointed, but rebooking a professional after the fact (if your cheap choice doesn’t meet expectations) can end up being even more expensive. Based on years of experience, I recommend setting aside a significant portion of your wedding budget for trusted professionals who specialize in weddings.
What you can do: invest in a highly recommended wedding photographer and videographer who specializes in capturing timeless moments. Not only will you cherish these photos for the rest of your life, but investing in an expert ensures the final product is worth every penny.
2. Opting for a DIY wedding dress or alterations
A wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, and many brides think they can save money by opting for a DIY dress or buying a discounted gown that’s poorly fitted. While this may seem like a cost-saving option, it can end up being far more expensive if it needs numerous alterations or doesn’t provide the comfort you need on such an important day.
Why this is a costly mistake: a poorly fitted or DIY wedding dress can not only lead to discomfort on your wedding day but could also need multiple fittings, which results in extra costs. It’s crucial to have a professional assess the fit and help you choose a dress that flatters your body shape.
What you can do: allocate a reasonable portion of your budget for a well-fitted wedding dress. Consider shopping during sales or looking for pre-owned dresses to get a designer gown at a lower cost. Ensuring that your dress is tailored by an experienced professional will make a world of difference in both comfort and style.
3. Underestimating catering costs
Your wedding reception will be one of the most memorable parts of the day, so it’s essential that the food and drinks match your expectations. Opting for cheaper catering options may save you money initially, but could ultimately disappoint your guests. The food and beverages at your wedding are an integral part of the overall experience, and it’s not the place to cut corners.
Why this is a costly mistake: guests will remember the quality of the food, and if it’s bad, they’ll talk about it long after the event. Low-cost caterers might sacrifice quality for quantity, leaving you with a wedding that lacks flavour and creativity. The added stress of trying to find an alternative last minute or dealing with unhappy guests will also cost you time, energy, and potentially more money.
What you can do: invest in catering that fits your budget but still offers quality. When interviewing caterers, ask for tastings and ensure that they’re experienced with weddings of your size and style. If possible, get recommendations from other couples who have had successful experiences.
4. Relying on family and friends for professional tasks
Many couples are tempted to ask their friends or family members to take on professional tasks such as photography, DJing, or wedding planning in an effort to save money. While it might seem like a good idea, friends and family members might not have the professional experience required to handle the pressure of a wedding day.
Why this is a costly mistake: a lack of professional experience could lead to problems on your wedding day, like disorganized timelines, technical issues, or disappointing photos. Having friends or family take on too many responsibilities can also strain your relationships, leading to stress on the big day.
What you can do: hire professionals for critical services like photography, DJing, and event planning. Experienced wedding vendors are experts who know how to handle wedding-day stresses, and they can contribute to a smooth, successful event. If you’re looking to save, consider hiring a day-of coordinator who will manage everything for you without breaking the bank.
5. Skipping wedding insurance
While wedding insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense, it can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong. Things don’t always go according to plan — vendors might cancel, weather could ruin your outdoor ceremony, or other unexpected situations can arise. The financial consequences of not having insurance can be much worse than the initial cost of the policy.
Why this is a costly mistake: if you face an unexpected issue such as a vendor cancellation, injury, or weather-related issues, you could end up losing money. Having insurance protects your investment and gives you peace of mind that you’re covered for the unexpected.
What you can do: purchase wedding insurance to protect yourself from financial loss due to unforeseen circumstances. Make sure to compare policies and choose one that covers your specific needs, including vendor cancellations, damage to attire, and other critical aspects of your day.
6. Skimping on wedding favours and gifts
While wedding favours and bridal party gifts may seem like an afterthought, they can play a big role in making your guests feel appreciated. Skimping on these small gestures by opting for cheap, generic gifts could end up making your wedding feel less personal and less memorable.
Why this is a costly mistake: cheap or impersonal gifts will often feel like a waste of money, and guests will not appreciate them. Additionally, if you don’t properly acknowledge your bridal party’s support, it could leave a sour taste.
What you can do: select thoughtful, affordable wedding favours and gifts that show appreciation. Personalized gifts, handmade items, or even experiences (like a fun group activity post-wedding) can make a lasting impression.
7. Skimping on a wedding planner
If you’re organizing a large wedding, a wedding planner can be your best investment. Although wedding planners can seem expensive, their experience and expertise can save you time, money, and stress. Trying to plan everything yourself can quickly lead to mistakes or missed details.
Why this is a costly mistake: if you try to plan your wedding without professional help, you might miss important details, spend more on unnecessary things, or even lose money due to poor vendor choices. A wedding planner is trained to anticipate and solve issues before they become a problem.
What you can do: hire a wedding planner or day-of coordinator, especially if you’re hosting a large or complex wedding. Their expertise and connections to trusted vendors can help you stay within budget while ensuring your wedding is a success.
While it’s tempting to save money on certain aspects of your wedding, some “cheap” choices can lead to stress and unexpected costs. The key is to invest in areas that will make the most impact, such as photography, catering, and professional planning. By avoiding these common cheap mistakes, you can ensure your wedding day is everything you dreamed of — without the financial regret.
For more expert wedding advice, tips, and resources, sign up for The Wedding Whisperer newsletter, where you’ll receive insights on planning a wedding that fits your vision and budget.
Comments +
Comments -