Congratulations! You’re engaged and ready to start planning your dream wedding. While this is an exciting time, it’s no secret that weddings can be expensive.
One of the first steps in your planning journey should be setting a budget that allows you to create the perfect day without unnecessary stress.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we understand how important it is to balance your vision with financial practicality.
That’s why we’re here to help you navigate where to splurge and where to save, ensuring you get the most out of your wedding budget while still bringing your dream celebration to life.
Candice Vann Photography
Start with a Realistic Budget
Before making any big decisions, take time to sit down with your partner (and any family members who may be contributing) to discuss a realistic budget. Consider your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and areas where you’re willing to compromise.
Make sure to account for all major expenses, including the venue, catering, attire, entertainment, photography, and unexpected costs that may arise.
Creating a spreadsheet or using a wedding budget app can help keep track of your spending, ensuring you stay on track throughout the planning process.
Where to Splurge
Your Venue
Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding day, so it’s worth investing in a location that fits your vision and offers a seamless experience.
Choosing a full-service venue like The Lodge at Bridal Creek can save you time and stress, as we provide stunning indoor and outdoor spaces, vendor recommendations, and exceptional support from our venue coordinators.
A great venue also means you’ll need less decor to enhance the space – if your surroundings are naturally beautiful, you won’t have to spend as much on decorations to transform the space.
Taylor Rene Photography
Photography & Videography
Your wedding photos and videos will be the lasting memories of your special day, making this one of the best areas to invest in. Hiring a skilled photographer and videographer ensures that all the love, joy, and special moments are beautifully captured.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we’ve curated a list of top-tier photographers who know how to take full advantage of the venue’s stunning backdrops, from breathtaking sunset shots to intimate moments in our scenic outdoor spaces.
Catering & Bar Service
Food and drinks are a major part of the guest experience. While you don’t need a five-course gourmet meal, quality catering is worth the investment. Opt for a well-reviewed caterer that offers delicious, crowd-pleasing menu options.
Signature cocktails and an open bar are fun ways to elevate your reception. If an open bar for the entire night isn’t feasible, consider a limited selection of beer, wine, and a couple of signature drinks to keep costs manageable.
Entertainment
Whether you choose a live band or DJ, entertainment plays a key role in setting the energy of your wedding reception. A professional, experienced entertainer will keep the dance floor packed and create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
If live music is a priority but outside your budget for the entire night, consider hiring musicians for the ceremony and cocktail hour while opting for a DJ for the reception.
Where to Save
Invitations & Stationery
Printed invitations are beautiful, but costs can add up quickly when you factor in custom designs, fancy paper, and postage. Consider opting for digital invitations or a mix of both – send physical invites to close family and electronic ones to the rest of your guests.
Additionally, wedding websites make it easy to share details, manage RSVPs, and keep guests informed without the added expense of extra stationery.
Wedding Attire
Your wedding attire is important, but you don’t have to break the bank to look stunning. Consider sample sales, off-the-rack options, or pre-loved designer dresses for significant savings.
Grooms can also save by renting tuxedos or shopping from brands that offer stylish but affordable suits.
Bridesmaids and groomsmen don’t have to wear designer outfits either. Choosing budget-friendly attire or allowing them to pick their own outfits within a color scheme can help reduce costs.
Flowers & Décor
Floral arrangements can be expensive, but there are ways to achieve a beautiful aesthetic without overspending.
Consider using seasonal flowers, repurposing ceremony arrangements for the reception, and incorporating greenery for an elegant yet cost-effective look.
The Lodge at Bridal Creek offers a naturally stunning backdrop, meaning you won’t need excessive decorations to enhance the venue’s beauty.
Our indoor and outdoor spaces provide built-in charm, allowing you to focus on meaningful details rather than extravagant decor.
Wedding Favors
While favors are a thoughtful gesture, they’re often left behind by guests. Instead of spending money on trinkets, consider edible favors like cookies or mini jars of honey, or even make a charitable donation in your guests’ honor.
Transportation
If your ceremony and reception are in the same location, you can skip the expense of transportation between venues. When transportation is necessary, consider a shuttle service rather than individual rentals, or arrange carpools to save on costs.
Modern Moments Photography
Additional Budgeting Tips
Prioritize What Matters Most
Every couple has different priorities, so focus on what’s most important to you. If you dream of an amazing photographer but don’t care about elaborate floral arrangements, allocate your budget accordingly.
Book Early
Vendors often offer better pricing for early bookings, so securing your venue and key vendors well in advance can help lock in rates before they increase.
Additionally, booking early provides you with a better selection of dates, ensuring you get the time of year and setting you’ve always envisioned. It also gives you more time to plan the finer details, reducing last-minute stress and rushed decisions.
At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we recommend booking as soon as possible to take advantage of availability and secure the perfect date for your celebration.
Negotiate & Bundle Services
Many vendors offer discounts for bundled services, such as combining photography and videography or booking catering and bartending from the same company. Don’t be afraid to ask vendors if they have package deals or seasonal discounts.
Consider Off-Peak Dates
Weddings during peak seasons or on Saturdays tend to be more expensive. Consider a Friday, Sunday, or off-season date for potential cost savings. At The Lodge at Bridal Creek, we offer flexible date options to help couples find the perfect fit for their budget.
DIY Where It Makes Sense
While DIY projects can save money, they can also be time-consuming. Choose DIY elements wisely – things like simple decor, signage, or favors can be fun to create, but avoid projects that add unnecessary stress leading up to the big day.
Making the Most of Your Wedding Budget
Your wedding day should be a reflection of your love story, and with smart budgeting, you can create a beautiful celebration without financial stress. The Lodge at Bridal Creek is here to help make your wedding planning process as smooth as possible.
By choosing where to splurge and where to save, you’ll be able to create a memorable wedding experience while staying within your budget. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our team is ready to assist you in crafting the perfect day.
Ready to start planning? Contact our venue coordinators at (918) 376-3267 to learn more about our packages and how we can bring your dream wedding to life!