How to Tackle Wedding Season on a Budget

Wedding season is an exciting time for everyone involved, but it can also be an expensive one. You may even be attending multiple weddings in a row, so it’s important to make sure you budget accordingly. Here are some tips to help you budget for wedding season so you can celebrate with the newlyweds without worrying about your wallet.

Start Budgeting Early

You finally got your Save-the-Date invitation in the mail from the engaged couple. How exciting! It is an honor to be a wedding guest, but even just being a guest comes with some expenses. As soon as you get the Save-the-Date and accept the invitation, start budgeting now. Common things to budget for as a wedding guest would be travel and accommodations, outfits, and wedding gifts.

Book Your Travel and Accommodations as Soon as You Can

One of the biggest expenses that come with being a wedding guest is the cost of travel and lodging. Booking your accommodations early can help you secure travel prices and hotel rates at a lower cost. Sometimes bundling your airfare and hotel can offer discounts, or if the wedding group is traveling to the wedding destination, you may be able to secure your hotel room through a group discount.

Choose Your Wedding Attire Wisely

The bride and groom may be asking their guests to follow a dress code, but that doesn’t mean you need to purchase a new outfit. The easiest way to save money is to wear something you already own! It is also not uncommon for wedding guests to rent their outfits instead of buying them, if you don’t already own something that fits the bill.

Use the Wedding Registry to Your Advantage

Picking out a wedding gift for the couple can be financially stressful, especially if they have expensive items on their registry. Instead of purchasing an expensive gift by yourself, consider joining forces with fellow wedding guests on a gift the couple will love! The bride and groom may also have their registry organized by price range, allowing you to easily pick something that is within your budget.

Remember Your Role as a Wedding Guest

Attending a wedding should be a joyous occasion and as a wedding guest, you should not be expected to go over your budget to attend. The couple invited you to their wedding so that you can celebrate the moment together, not so you’d have to buy the most expensive outfit or gift. If you are unable to attend, congratulate the couple on their union and let them know you will not be in attendance. As much as the happy couple would love to have you there to celebrate with them, they should understand your situation and not want you to struggle financially to enjoy their wedding.