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Home • News

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day

We break down the five wedding details worth the money and five money saving details to skip.
By Essence · Updated October 27, 2020
01
Save Money On Your Dream Wedding

We break down the five wedding details worth the money and five money saving details to skip.

 

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
02
Splurge On The Dress

The bride is the real star on her wedding day, and no leading lady should be photographed in anything other than a scene-stealing dress. If your money is funny, purchase your dream dress first.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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03
Save On Invitations

Welcome to the digital age. Save thousands by nixing the idea of traditional paper invitations and go digital all the way. Sites like Paperless Post make modern (and affordable) digital wedding invites in seconds.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
Paperless Post
04
Splurge On Bridal Accessories

From the veil to the stilettos, a brides’ wedding day outfit will be one she will cherish forever. Make this spend count!

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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05
Save On The Big Exit

While couples are often tempted to spend thousands of dollars on a classic vintage car or fireworks display for their grand exit, the truth is, this is a perfect place to save room in a wedding budget. A lot of guests leave early and miss the gesture and the couple’s real grand finale is the honeymoon. Skip it or choose a more affordable option and save thousands.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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06
Splurge On the Photography

Long after the wedding is over, your photos will be around to enjoy and share with friendly and family. You don’t want to have any regrets in this department – especially if you can’t wait to share them. (Hello Instabrides!) A great wedding photographer is going to cost you, but we promise, the photos will be worth every penny.

 

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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07
Save On The Flowers

In every bridal portrait, her bouquet is her best accessory. While having wall-to-wall flowers can cost you thousands, you’ll save just as much keeping the focus on the floral moments that count—the bouquets and ceremony altar—and sticking to elegant candles everywhere else.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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08
Splurge On the Wedding Bands

Unlike the table settings and the flowers, which are only pretty for a moment, the wedding bands are a lifelong symbol of commitment between the bride and the groom—and that’s something worth spending on.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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09
Save On Alchohol

In lieu of an open bar throughout the entire reception, where guests can really rack up the tab, go for a signature cocktail that’s served all evening, or stick to wine and champagne.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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10
Splurge On the Entertainment

After the magic of the ceremony, it’s time for the newlyweds to celebrate with their closest family and friends. A great party requires great entertainment for all. Whether your tastes require a live band, a deejay or a soloist, what counts is that you keep the crowd on their feet.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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11
Save On Dessert

Large, decorated wedding cakes that serve hundreds of people can cost thousands, especially with specialty flavors. Switch it up with more cost-efficient dessert options like cupcakes, cookies or a candy bar. Another great trick: Buy sheet cake to serve guests and display a faux cake on your reception table.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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12
Splurge On the Honeymoon

So often, newlywed forego a fantastic honeymoon in favor of grand, over-the-top “I dos.” That’s the opposite of what matters most. Have the ceremony and reception your budget allows in order to leave room in for the romantic vacation of a lifetime to celebrate the milestone moment.

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
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13
Save On Venue

If the bride and groom are willing to cut their guest list in half, it will instantly make room in their budget for alternative (and more cost effective) wedding venue ideas – like a mansion grounds or a cozy and elegant backyard. Sometimes these venues only charge to rent the space and don’t attach a per person cost based on your guest count.

 

11 Wedding Splurges That Could Make Or Break Your Big Day
Getty Images