Let's be real, while love doesn't cost a thing, throwing a wedding definitely does. If you're living it up in a big city, you might be looking at an average of $45,000 for a wedding.1 Like many things, your celebration should be about getting the most bang for your buck and making sure your big day doesn't derail your financial dreams. Synchrony is here to help.
1. Crafting a Budget That Doesn’t Suck the Fun Out of Wedding Planning
First things first, set up a budget that feels right. Think about the cash you've got, any generous boosts from family, and maybe even consider a longer engagement to stack more cash in a high-yield savings account. Try organizing your expenses in a spreadsheet, and think about snagging a credit card that offers cashback rewards—just make sure to use it wisely.
2. Choosing What’s Worth the Splurge at Your Wedding
Figure out what vibes you’re going for—maybe it’s a killer location or awesome decorations—and throw your budget behind that. Keep your guest list tight to cut costs, and go digital with your invites to save some extra green. You can add your own flair with DIY projects or sustainable party favors that scream ‘you’.
3. Pro Tips to Save Major Cash on Your Wedding
Why not get hitched during the off-season to cut down on venue costs? Or pick a quirky spot like a beach or a barn that doesn’t cost a fortune. Rock a chic, pre-loved wedding dress, or rent one to save some cash. And for the guys, how about a suit that can be re-worn?
4. Using Tech and Smart Negotiations to Plan Like a Pro
Jump on apps like Zola or The Knot to keep your budget in check and manage your vendors like a boss. Don’t be shy—haggle a bit with vendors to land yourself a sweet deal, and make sure you’re crystal clear on contract details.
Wrap-Up: Living Large, Spending Smart
You don’t need to blow a ton of cash to have an epic wedding. Focus on what really matters, plan smart, and you can kick off your married life without financial regrets. Check out Synchrony's tools to manage your money like a pro, setting you up for a future filled with all the dreams you want to chase—starting with an unforgettable wedding day.
Further Reading For more insights on saving for your wedding, visit Saving for a Wedding to Remember.
Cathie Ericson is an Oregon-based freelance writer who covers personal finance, real estate and education, among other topics. Her work has appeared in a wide range of publications and websites, including U.S. News & World Report, MSN, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, Market Watch, Fast Company, Realtor.com and more.
Source
1. Zola.com "How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost in 2024?" Link: https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding
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