How to Plan a Dream Wedding Without Breaking the Bank?

Money Work Shares Ways to Save on Your Big Day!

Weddings are beautiful, emotional, and unfortunately—expensive. The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. hovers around $30,000, but here’s the truth: you don’t need to break the bank to have the wedding of your dreams.

At Money Work, we believe love should be celebrated, not overshadowed by debt. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a full-blown bash, there are plenty of smart, stress-free ways to save. Here’s how to cut costs without cutting corners.

1. Start with a Realistic Budget—And Stick to It

Before you book a venue or try on dresses, sit down with your partner and outline a clear, realistic budget. Prioritize what matters most (venue, food, dress, etc.) and be firm on what you can afford. Apps like Zola and Mint can help track your spending in real-time.

2. Ditch the Saturday Wedding

Saturday is prime real estate in the wedding world—and it comes with a premium price tag. Opt for a Friday evening or Sunday morning wedding instead. Even weekdays can offer huge savings on venues, photographers, and caterers.

3. Rent or Borrow, Don’t Buy

From decor to attire, there’s no need to buy everything brand-new.

Wedding dress: Rent or buy second-hand from sites like Stillwhite or Borrowing Magnolia.
Décor: Thrift shops, Facebook Marketplace, or local wedding groups often have gently used items at a fraction of the cost.

4. Go Digital With Invitations

Printed invites are elegant but pricey—especially when you factor in postage. Try free or low-cost digital invitations via sites like Paperless Post, Greenvelope, or Evite. They’re eco-friendly and just as stylish.

Skip the three-course plated dinner and opt for a buffet, brunch spread, or even a food truck. These options are often significantly cheaper and feel more casual and fun. Also, consider skipping the open bar and offering beer, wine, and one signature cocktail instead.

6. DIY What You Can

If you're crafty (or know someone who is), tap into your inner DIY guru:

Centerpieces made from bulk flowers from Costco or Trader Joe’s
Wedding favors like handmade soaps or cookies
Spotify playlist instead of a DJ

Just make sure you don’t overwhelm yourself. Pick one or two areas to DIY, and outsource the rest.

7. Cut the Guest List

Fewer guests mean less food, fewer tables, and a smaller venue. This is one of the most effective ways to cut costs. A smaller guest list also creates a more intimate and personal celebration.

8. Ask for Help (And Be Open About It)

Your friends and family want to see you succeed. Don’t hesitate to ask:

A musically gifted cousin to perform
A talented friend to do your makeup
A baker in the family to whip up your wedding cake

Trade services or gifts in place of a traditional wedding present.

9. Use Cashback & Discount Platforms

Always shop smart. Use apps and websites like:

Rakuten for cashback
Honey or Capital One Shopping for discount codes
Money Work curated resources for savings tips on everything from venues to vendors.

10. Remember the Purpose

At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating love—not impressing guests or draining your savings. Focus on creating meaningful memories, not maxing out credit cards.

Final Thoughts

A beautiful wedding doesn’t need to come with a massive price tag. With the right planning, creativity, and help from Money Work’s money-saving tips, you can say “I do” without saying goodbye to your savings. Love should be joyful, not stressful—and definitely not expensive.