15 Ways to Save on the Wedding Budget

15 Things to Cut From Your Wedding to Save Money on the Budget
…without sacrificing the magic.

Weddings are beautiful, meaningful, and often a once-in-a-lifetime event—but they can also be wildly expensive if you’re not careful. Before you dismiss any of these suggestions, take a moment to really consider what you want from your day. Not what Pinterest says, not what tradition says, and definitely not what your aunt’s best friend’s daughter had at hers. These 15 things are commonly included in weddings—but if you’re looking to save money without compromising the experience, they’re also the easiest to let go of. Let’s take a look.

1. Open Bar
An open bar sounds generous, but the costs stack up fast. Consider offering beer, wine, and one signature cocktail instead—it still feels luxe, without draining your wallet.

2. Live Band
Live bands are amazing, but DJs (or even curated playlists with a confident MC friend) can create the same energy at a fraction of the price. Prioritize the vibe, not the number of musicians.

3. Chair Covers
Chair covers are often rented for aesthetic reasons, but they rarely impact guest experience. Opt for beautiful chairs from the start or skip them entirely—no one remembers the chair covers.

4. Extra Lighting
Custom lighting packages can be breathtaking—but they’re also expensive. If your venue has decent lighting, you can save thousands with candles, fairy lights, or natural ambiance.

5. Wedding Favours
Most wedding favours are left behind or forgotten. Save the time, money, and effort—your guests won’t miss them, and you won’t regret skipping them.

6. Save-The-Dates
Save-the-dates are lovely, but totally optional. Go digital or combine your announcement and invite into one—especially if your wedding is less than a year away.

7. Bridal Party Gifts
You can show appreciation without breaking the bank. Thoughtful, handwritten notes or a shared experience go further than overpriced robes or jewellery sets.

8. Luxury Transportation
Limousines, vintage cars, and hired drivers make for great photos—but they’re rarely worth the cost. Use a trusted friend’s vehicle or book standard transport without the “wedding” markup.

9. Full-Service Catering
Plated, multi-course meals with wait staff sound elegant—but a well-done buffet or food truck can be just as memorable (and more relaxed and fun!). Think vibe over formality.

10. Printed Programmes
Most guests won’t refer back to your ceremony programme once it’s over. Go digital, create one beautiful sign, or skip them entirely.

11. Custom Cake Toppers
They’re cute, yes. But completely unnecessary. Your cake will shine on its own—or not at all if you’re opting for donuts, a dessert table, or skipping the cake altogether.

12. Multiple Dress Changes
Unless fashion is your passion, second (or third) dresses are a huge extra cost. Stick to one beautiful outfit you love—and actually feel good in—for maximum impact and comfort.

13. Huge Floral Centerpieces
Large floral arrangements eat up the budget and block guests' views. Go smaller, go seasonal, or use candles and greenery for the same wow factor at a lower cost.

14. Printed Menus at Each Seat
Elegant, yes—but not essential. One or two printed menus per table, or a statement menu board near the food station, is all you need to inform your guests.

15. Full-Service Photography Package
Photography is important, but you may not need 12+ hours, an engagement shoot, and a second shooter. Prioritize the moments that matter most, and book accordingly.

A final word…
Every wedding budget decision is a chance to get intentional. It’s easy to blow your budget trying to please everyone or keep up with what’s “expected”—but your wedding isn’t a performance. It’s a celebration of love. Get clear on what actually matters to you both, and spend where it counts. Let the rest go—guilt-free.

Planning your own dream wedding? 💍✨ The Forster Wedding Collective digital directory has curated a list of the best local vendors to bring your vision to life. From florists to stylists, find trusted experts who can help you create the wedding of your dreams.

Read more expert tips on the website.

Want to know more 📧 us!
hello@forsterweddings.au

Be sure to like, comment, save and follow @forsterweddings for more love, inspiration and ideas on planning your wedding X