The most common challenge for most wedding couples is how to plan the celebration of their dreams while working within a tight budget.  There are a few Utah wedding venues that can actually be very budget friendly.  The following are some tips on how to cut your budget, including some ideas on what to look for before you choose your wedding venue.

1. Don’t fight it!  Your budget can be viewed as a challenge to be met.  Make it a game!  It will not seem so overwhelming.
2. Give and take with the choices that come before you.  Sometimes a little flexibility here and there will help you still achieve what you want, but for a little less money.
3. Most wedding venues in Utah should provide you with a consultant for your celebration.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice.  A wedding planner has been involved with huge budget weddings and small budgets.  She can give you a lot of ideas, if you choose.

   

4. Your wedding venue is the first big cost you’ll spend.  Be sure to look for a venue that includes as much as possible for a reasonable price.  Some locations rent only the space and then add set up, tables, linens, chairs, etc. to your ticket.  In contrast, the receptions centers at Western Garden Centers, include just about everything a bride needs for a beautiful event in their venue – a lot of tables, linens, chairs, set up, and even beautiful and stylish centerpieces are included.
5. Remember who this party is for…..YOU!  If you continually remind yourself of this, it can save funds for other things you really want for your celebration.

   

6. Now it is time to check your guest list.  Invite only your closest relatives and friends.  If you can cut the number of guests, you’ll be cutting your costs for food, flowers for tables, guest favors, invitations, and even the size of your cake.  In the past, some brides and grooms have tried to please their parents and invite the whole world.  It’s okay to keep it intimate, especially if you have to work within a tight budget.
7. There are a lot of little details that can be done personally by you or by close family and friends.  Labor is one of the biggest expenses for wedding events.  Remember that you have a Maid of Honor and that is her job, to help you with whatever she can for your beautiful day.  You can create your own wedding favors, menu cards, table signs, Our Story banners, etc.  Again, labor is usually the biggest cost, so get your family and bridesmaids helping you!

   

8. Booking your wedding ceremony and reception at the same wedding location will help cut your costs.  Some venues simply add a minimal cost to add on a ceremony to your already booked reception or dinner.  Be sure to find out what that same-day ceremony includes – additional hours, set-up, etc.

   

9. Another great idea is to save on your wedding cake budget by ordering a smaller two tier cake.  The more tiers, the bigger expense.  Consider purchasing a sheet cake to serve your guests.

   

10. Your food menu is another place you can spend wisely.  Finger foods and appetizers typically are less money.  Also, a handful of venues allow for self-catering.  With today’s options at warehouse stores, this has been a viable option for many wedding parties.  Does your venue allow for self-catering?  Can you bring in your own caterer?  Many venues require you to use their caterers, cake designers, and florists.  Seek a venue that gives you more leeway in these areas.

    

11. Last but not least, your flowers can be inexpensive if you are willing.  Simple flowers can have a stunning effect on your guests.  I remember one bride who used only red roses.  It was stunning and very romantic.  Even her bridal bouquet was a dozen red roses and white baby’s breath bound with white satin ribbon.  Using greenery and flowers that are in season can also cut costs.  Some wedding venues in Utah offer candle lit centerpieces that do not require any additional flowers.  Some brides have simply used rose petals scattered around an elegant candle centerpiece.

Wedding budgets can be scary but they don’t have to be.  Face it head on and meet the challenge.  Prioritizing the items that are most important to you, will help you see where you can trim and cut.  Your biggest challenge can be to find a venue that is a good value with many of the trimmings you would have to add yourself if at another venue.  Atrium Weddings and Ivy House Weddings are two wedding reception venues in Utah that include a lot of beauty for an affordable rental price.