Tips for planning a wedding on a budget

3. Minimise flower decorations

   We are not suggesting that you plan your wedding event without using flowers. However, whenever possible, substitute natural flowers for artificial ones. You may not realise it, but natural flowers account for most decoration costs, especially if they are out of season.
    
   You can use natural flowers on the stage and in a few places near the entrance. On the other hand, artificial flowers are ideal for selfie points, mandap pillars, and areas of less importance.
    

4. Purchase during the off-season

   Off-season purchases are the most economical option, whether you are shopping for a wedding or any other occasion. For example, in India, the most popular summer times for wedding are April, May, and the beginning of June. In winter season, mid-November, the first half of December, and February are when weddings usually take place.
    
   The demand for jewellery, designer outfits, and other wedding-related products is high during the wedding season. During this period, sellers of these products charge high prices to maximise their profits. However, if you go shopping for sarees or other items in June and July, you may be able to get the same stuff at 50%-75% less value. 
    

5. Cut down on the guest list

   Limiting the number of guests invited is one of the best low-budget wedding ideas in India. You must especially consider the cost per plate of food at your wedding when creating a budget. If you are planning a wedding at a hotel, the veg platter will cost you between Rs 1500 and Rs 2000 per plate. Thus, if you have 1000 guests, you will spend Rs 15-20 lakhs on food alone. Reducing the number of guests to 300 will bring down your total food expenses to Rs 4.5-6 lakhs.
    
   Another factor to consider is the cost of lodging. The more guests you have, the more you will have to pay for their accommodation.
    

6. Invitation cards

   Invitation cards are among the most frivolous of wedding expenses. People nowadays are crazy about customised designer cards for their wedding invites. These cards cost around Rs 400-500 each.
    
   However, aside from the couple and their parents, no one else would ornate the card on the shelf. Most people will throw away your wedding card in the rubbish after few days. It might sound rude but this is what happens in practice.
    
   So, what is the best alternative here? You can opt for digital invitation cards that can be customised using a variety of free online tools. Many wedding photographers also provide digital invitation cards as part of their package, which might save you a lot of money.
    

7. Take the help of your photographer friend

   When you think of a wedding, many small or large ceremonies come to mind. However, not every event necessitates the use of a professional photographer. In any case, when selecting photos for a wedding album, you only select 4-5 photos of haldi, 2-3 photos of pre-wedding rituals, and so on. Thus, it is not a good idea to pay a professional photographer Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 to cover these minor events. Instead, you could ask a friend or relative to photograph the important moments during such functions.
    

8. Ditch the wedding planner

   Many people believe that event planners assist in lowering wedding costs. But is this true? Most probably not. Wedding planners not only make money from you, but also take commissions from various vendors.
    
   Instead of hiring a wedding planner, research the market well ahead of your wedding. Make reservations for caterers, decorators, bands, and DJs several months in advance. Spare time for them and assist them in understanding your requirements. You can also take them to the wedding venue and share your plans for the wedding day arrangements.
    

To conclude