How To Plan A Wedding For $10,000 Or Less (Practical Tips)
In this post, I will show you how to plan a wedding for $10,000 or less.
From finding affordable venues to DIYing florals and keeping things simple, these tips will help you create a beautiful wedding that won’t break the bank!
Key Takeaways
Planning a wedding for $10,000 or less is totally possible (and not as hard as you might think) if you stay focused, prioritize what matters most, and get creative with how and where you spend your money.
Here’s a quick summary of the main tips from each section. Feel free to skip to a section that grabs your attention (or read the entire post for all the tips and suggestions):
- Set Your Priorities – Focus on what’s most important to you and spend more on those areas. Cut back on things that aren’t as important.
- Venue – Look for affordable options like public parks, community centers, or backyards. Bonus if the venue includes tables, chairs, and other items that you don’t need to rent.
- Catering – Keep it simple with buffet-style meals, food trucks, or drop-off catering. Save money by limiting the menu options.
- Drinks & Dessert – Stick to beer, wine, and simple non-alcoholic drinks. Opt for affordable desserts like grocery store cakes or a dessert table.
- Skip the Coordinator – DIY your planning or ask some trusted friends or family members to help run the day.
- Rentals – Focus on essentials like tables, chairs, and linens. Consider borrowing or buying items secondhand.
- Photography Over Videography – Prioritize photography to capture the memories. If video is important, ask a friend to film key moments.
- DIY Florals & Decorations – Buy flowers in bulk and create simple arrangements. Use affordable decor like candles and greenery.
- Music – Skip the DJ and create your own playlist. Rent or borrow speakers and ask a friend to manage the music.
- Stationery & Invitations – Go digital or keep printed invites simple and minimal. Skip extras like save-the-dates or fancy paper.
- Attire – Shop smart for affordable dresses and suits. Consider secondhand or off-the-rack options, and budget for alterations.
- Miscellaneous & Emergency Buffer – Set aside 10% of your budget for unexpected expenses, like tips or last-minute costs.
By following these tips, you can plan a beautiful, amazing wedding that fits your budget and still feels like the special day you’ve always dreamed of!
1. Set Your Priorities
Planning a wedding on a $10,000 budget means you might have to make some tough choices.
The best way to do that is by figuring out what’s most important to you and your partner.
Once you know your top priorities, you can put more of your budget into those areas and cut back on the rest.
Here’s how to get started:
Decide What Matters Most
Before you dive into the details, sit down with your partner and talk about what really matters to both of you on your wedding day. This will help you figure out where to spend your money and where to cut back.
- Think about what’s non-negotiable – What are the top 3-5 things you absolutely want to have at your wedding? (Examples: Venue, food, photographer, music.)
- Agree on what you’re okay with spending less on – Can you skip fancy invitations? Are DIY flowers an option? What can you simplify or do without?
Focus on Your Priorities
Once you’ve figured out what’s most important, make sure most of your budget goes toward those things. Everything else can get less attention (and money).
Example priorities:
- Venue – If having a great space is important, find a venue that’s affordable but still fits your vibe.
- Food – If feeding your guests well matters, look for affordable catering options like food trucks or buffet-style meals.
- Photography – If photos are important, allocate more of your budget to hire a good photographer, even if that means cutting costs elsewhere.
Practical Tips
- Write a list of your top priorities and keep it handy while planning.
- Don’t worry about making everything about your wedding look like Pinterest or Instagram…focus on the things you care about most.
- Be willing to DIY or ask for help from friends and family for areas that aren’t high on your list (like decorations or music).
By setting your priorities early, you can plan a wedding that feels special to you without going over your $10,000 budget.
- Related blog post: How to pay for your wedding when you don’t have a lot of money
- Related blog post: How to make a wedding budget for beginners
2. Venue – Keep it Affordable and Beautiful
One of the biggest chunks of your wedding budget will likely go toward the venue, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity, you can find a beautiful spot without spending too much.
Look for Affordable Venues
Instead of booking an expensive ballroom or hotel, consider more affordable options like public spaces or unconventional venues. These places can be just as beautiful and cost way less.
- Public parks – Many parks offer rental spaces for weddings at low prices, and the natural scenery can be gorgeous.
- Community centers – Local government or community buildings can be rented for a fraction of what a traditional venue would cost.
- Backyard weddings – If you or a friend has a large backyard, this can save you a lot of money (My wife and I got married in her parent’s backyard and it was amazing!).
- Airbnb rentals – Some larger Airbnb properties allow weddings, and this can be a great way to get a unique venue for less (Just make sure to ask if they allow weddings before booking).
Focus on Venues with Included Amenities
To save even more money, look for venues that include items like tables, chairs, and linens. This can cut down on rental costs.
Bonus points if the venue includes:
- Tables and chairs – Some venues come with these included, which can save you hundreds (ask when you first inquire with the venue).
- Indoor and outdoor options – This can give you flexibility with weather and save on tent rentals.
Practical Tips
- Start your search locally – Check with city or county parks, libraries, or community centers for budget-friendly options.
- Ask about discounts – Some venues offer resident discounts or lower rates for off-season or weekday weddings.
- Tour the space – Before you book, visit the venue to make sure it has everything you need and fits your wedding style.
- Ceremony and reception in same location – Getting married in a location where you can get ready, and have the ceremony and reception all at one place will cut out the need for transportation…another way to save some money!
By choosing an affordable venue and keeping an eye out for included amenities, you can save a big portion of your budget for other important areas.
Related blog posts:
- Non-traditional wedding venue ideas that typically cost less
- 100 questions to consider asking before you book a wedding venue
3. Catering on a Budget
Feeding your guests doesn’t have to be the most expensive part of your wedding. There are plenty of affordable catering options that can still make your wedding feel special without blowing your budget.
Affordable Catering Options
When planning a wedding on a $10,000 budget, you’ll want to avoid traditional plated dinners. Instead…consider cheaper alternatives that still offer great food.
- Buffet-style meals – Buffets cost less than plated meals and allow your guests to serve themselves.
- Food trucks – Many food trucks offer wedding catering at a lower price. It’s fun, unique, and keeps costs down.
- Drop-off catering – Some restaurants and caterers offer delivery services where they drop off food, and you handle the rest (like serving and cleanup).
- DIY – If you have friends or family members who love cooking, consider doing a potluck-style meal (My mom did this when she got re-married and it was some of the best food I have ever had at a wedding).
Keep the Menu Simple
Stick to simple, crowd-pleasing dishes. Fancy menus can increase your catering costs quickly, but a hearty and simple meal can satisfy your guests for less.
Popular budget-friendly options:
- BBQ
- Tacos
- Pizza
- Pasta
Limit the variety – Offer a couple of main dishes and sides instead of a big menu with lots of choices.
Practical Tips
- Ask for family-style or buffet meals – These are usually more affordable than plated dinners.
- Shop local – Ask local restaurants or food trucks about catering options. They’re often cheaper than big-name caterers (Olive Garden and Chipotle both offer great prices for catering).
- Consider a potluck – If you’re having a smaller, casual wedding, asking close family and friends to contribute dishes can save a lot of money.
You can easily feed your guests without overspending by choosing budget-friendly food options and keeping the menu simple.
We also put together a blog post with 50+ cheap wedding food ideas.
4. Drinks & Dessert – Simple and Sweet
You don’t need a fancy bar or an expensive cake to make your wedding fun and memorable. Keeping drinks and dessert simple is a great way to stick to your $10,000 budget.
Affordable Drink Options
A full open bar with cocktails can be expensive, but there are cheaper ways to keep your guests happy without spending a ton of money.
- Stick to beer and wine – These are much cheaper than offering mixed drinks or cocktails.
- Limit the selection – Choose 1-2 types of wine and 1-2 types of beer. Most guests won’t expect a huge variety.
- Serve self-serve non-alcoholic drinks – Simple options like lemonade, iced tea, and water are budget-friendly and easy to set up.
Simple, Budget-Friendly Desserts
Instead of an expensive wedding cake, choose a more affordable option that your guests will love.
- Grocery store cakes – Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club offer big, delicious cakes at a fraction of the price of a cake from a bakery (The Costco sheets cake are amazing!).
- Dessert table – Offer a mix of sweets like cupcakes, cookies, and brownies. Guests can pick what they like, and it’s often cheaper than a large cake.
- DIY dessert bar – You can also ask friends or family to contribute homemade desserts for a personal touch (I have seen many weddings do a DIY cookie table).
Practical Tips
- Buy in bulk – Buy drinks from stores like Costco or Sam’s Club to save money.
- Skip hiring a bartender – Have a family member or friend help serve drinks if needed.
- Ask about cutting fees – If you go with a traditional cake, ask if the bakery or caterer charges a cake-cutting fee and try to avoid it.
We also put together this blog post that features 100 dessert table ideas when you’re on a budget.
By keeping the drinks and dessert menu simple and fun, you can cut costs without sacrificing fun and taste.
5. Skip the Coordinator (Or Get Creative with Planning)
Hiring a wedding coordinator can take a big chunk out of your budget, but you can still have a smooth, well-organized day without one.
With some strategic planning and help from friends or family, you can save that money and put it toward something else you care about more.
DIY Your Wedding Coordination
Instead of hiring a full-service planner, take the reins yourself! It’s totally doable if you stay organized and plan ahead.
- Use wedding planning tools – There are plenty of free or low-cost tools…like spreadsheets and online checklists…that can help keep you on track.
- Make a planning binder – Make yourself a printable wedding planning binder where you can organize every little detail (you can also go digital but I prefer pen and paper)
- Get help from friends and family – Ask trusted friends or family members to help run things on the big day.
- Create a timeline – Make a timeline of your wedding day (like when the ceremony starts, when food is served, etc.) and share it with your vendors and helpers.
Consider a “Day-of” Coordinator
If you still want some professional help on the wedding day but don’t want to spend a lot of money, a “day-of” coordinator can be a great compromise. They help run the day but don’t charge as much as a full planner.
- Ask around for affordable coordinators – Some newer planners may offer “day-of” services for less.
- Check if your venue offers coordination – Some venues have an in-house wedding coordinator included in the rental price.
Practical Tips
- Create a detailed day-of timeline and share it with everyone involved, including vendors.
- Assign specific tasks to friends and family (like making sure the music starts at the right time or helping with setup).
- Stay organized with free planning apps or online tools that help manage your budget, guest list, and tasks.
By doing some of the coordinating yourself and leaning on family/friends, you can easily skip the cost of a full-time wedding planner and still have a stress-free day.
6. Rentals – Make Smart Choices
Renting items like tables, chairs, and linens can quickly add up…but there are smart ways to cut down on rental costs and still create a beautiful setup for your wedding.
Focus on What You Really Need
Before you rent anything, figure out exactly what your venue provides. Some venues already include tables and chairs, which can save you a lot.
- Choose a venue with included furniture – Venues that provide tables and chairs help you avoid extra rental costs (some venues charge for these items and some have it included in the price…ask before signing a contract).
- Skip unnecessary extras – Fancy chairs or expensive linens might look nice, but they’re not essential. Stick with the basics to stay on budget.
- Borrow from friends or family – If someone you know has items like tablecloths, centerpieces, or other decor, don’t hesitate to ask to borrow them.
DIY or Use Alternatives
There are some creative ways to avoid rental fees altogether. Consider alternatives like borrowing, DIYing, or buying items you can sell later.
- DIY linens – If you want a specific look, consider buying fabric and making your own table runners or napkins.
- Look for second-hand options – Check Facebook Marketplace or thrift stores for gently used decor or table settings.
- Buy and resell – Sometimes buying items like tablecloths or decor and reselling them after the wedding can be cheaper than renting.
Practical Tips
- Price check – Always compare prices from different rental companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
- Negotiate – Ask rental companies if they can offer a discount, especially if you’re renting during an off-peak time or bundling several items.
- Stick to the essentials – Limit your rentals to what you absolutely need (tables, chairs, linens) and cut out any unnecessary extras.
By being price-conscious about rentals and exploring alternatives, you can keep this part of your budget manageable while still having a beautiful wedding setup.
7. Photography Over Videography
I’m probably going to get some hate mail for this one from the video community…but I’m a photographer and this is my blog…so I get to say which one I think is the best! Ha!
Photos are one of the best ways to remember your wedding day…but if you’re working with a $10,000 budget, you may need to choose between photography and videography. Focusing on photography will give you more bang for your buck…in my opinion.
Related blog post: How to save money on your wedding photography
Prioritize Photography
If you can only afford one, go with a photographer. Photos capture all the important moments, and you can relive them through your wedding album for years to come.
- Skip videography – While a wedding video can be nice, it’s typically a higher price than would be possible with a $10,000 budget.
- Find a photographer who fits your budget – Look for someone whose packages fit your needs without adding unnecessary extras. Some newer photographers may offer lower rates but still produce great work.
- Book fewer hours – You don’t need a photographer for the entire day. Booking them for the most important moments (ceremony, couple portraits, beginning of reception) can save money.
Ask for Help with Video
If having a video is still important to you, consider asking a friend or family member to record parts of your wedding with their phone or camera.
- DIY video – Ask a friend or family member to record big moments…like the ceremony, special dances, and speeches…instead of hiring a professional (This is what my wife and did and I love watching all of the videos from our wedding day).
- Use free or low-cost editing software – If you have a friend/family member record some video, you can easily edit it later into a simple highlight video (iMovie is free if you have a Mac).
Practical Tips
- Research local photographers – Find photographers who are newer to the business but have a nice portfolio…they may offer more affordable packages.
- Consider smaller photo packages – Hire a photographer for fewer hours or only one photographer instead of a 2nd shooter to stay within budget.
- Look for specials or discounts – Some photographers offer off-season or weekday discounts, which can help you save money (many photographers who attend wedding expos/bridal shows give discounts at the show).
By focusing on getting the important parts of the day photographed and skipping the extras, you can capture all the memories that matter while sticking to your $10,000 wedding budget.
8. DIY Florals & Decorations
Flowers and decorations can get expensive fast…but with a little creativity…you can still have a beautifully decorated wedding without overspending. DIY florals and simple decor are great ways to keep your wedding stylish and affordable.
My wife and mother-in-law did all of the flowers and decorations for our reception tables. All we paid for was a bridal bouquet.
DIY Florals
Hiring a florist can be costly, but creating your own flower arrangements is a great way to save money.
- Buy flowers in bulk – Purchase flowers from wholesalers like Costco, Sam’s Club, or online sites that offer bulk flowers at lower prices.
- Stick to simple arrangements – Focus on a few main flowers and greenery for a clean, modern look.
- Use affordable vases or jars – Mason jars, thrift shop vases, or even recycled glass bottles can make great containers for your DIY centerpieces.
Affordable Decorations
You don’t need to spend a fortune on decor to create a beautiful setting. A few simple touches can go a long way.
- Opt for candles, greenery, and simple lighting – These inexpensive items can make your venue feel romantic and elegant.
- Borrow decor from friends or family – If someone recently got married, ask if you can borrow any leftover decorations.
- DIY some items – Create your own table numbers, signs, or photo displays with affordable supplies from craft stores or online (Facebook Marketplace and Etsy for the win!).
Practical Tips
- Watch tutorials – There are so many great online videos that can show you how to make simple bouquets and centerpieces.
- Order seasonal flowers – Flowers that are in season will be cheaper and easier to find (avoid choosing flowers that need to be imported).
- Reuse decor – Use the same flowers and decorations for both the ceremony and reception to save money and time.
We also put together a blog post with 25 different ways to save on your wedding flowers.
By DIYing your florals and sticking to simple, affordable decorations, you can make your wedding look amazing without spending a lot of money.
9. Music – Keep It Simple
You don’t need a professional DJ to keep your wedding fun and lively. With a little planning, you can have great music on a budget and still keep the dance floor packed (my wife and I made our own music playlist and rented a speaker and microphone).
DIY Your Music
Skipping the DJ is one of the easiest ways to save money. You can create your own playlist and manage it with some basic equipment.
- Create a playlist – Use Spotify, Apple Music, or another streaming service to make playlists for different parts of your wedding (ceremony, cocktail hour, dancing).
- Ask someone to manage the music – Ask a friend or family member to handle playing the music at the right times.
- Rent or borrow sound equipment – If your venue doesn’t have speakers, rent a simple sound system or borrow from a friend.
Keep the Setup Simple
You don’t need a lot of fancy gear or complicated setups to have great sound.
- Stick to one or two speakers – You don’t need a full DJ setup for most weddings…just a couple of good-quality speakers.
- Use a microphone for speeches – If you plan to have speeches or toasts, make sure to have a microphone included in your setup.
Practical Tips
- Test everything ahead of time – Make sure your playlists, speakers, and microphones are working before the wedding day.
- Create a backup – Save your playlist on multiple devices (like your phone and a tablet) just in case something goes wrong.
By keeping your music setup simple and DIYing the playlist, you can save money and still have the perfect soundtrack for your big day.
10. Stationery & Invitations – Go Digital or Minimal
When you’re planning a wedding on a budget, stationery can easily add up. Between save-the-dates, invitations, and other printed items, the costs can get high. By going digital or keeping things simple, you can save money without losing style.
Skip Save-the-Dates
Save-the-dates are nice, but they’re not a must-have You can cut these out and go straight to sending out invitations.
- Send invites early – Skip the save-the-dates and send out invitations a bit earlier than usual to give guests plenty of time to plan.
- Go digital for casual invites – If your wedding is smaller or more casual, sending digital invitations via email or a wedding website is an easy way to save money.
Keep Printed Invitations Simple
If you want physical invitations, there are ways to keep them budget-friendly without sacrificing style.
- Use affordable online services – Websites like Minted and Basic Invite offer beautiful, customizable invitations at lower prices.
- Limit the extras – Stick to a simple invitation and RSVP card. Skip the extra inserts like maps, accommodation info, or fancy envelopes.
- Buy in bulk – Ordering a larger quantity can sometimes lower the cost per piece, especially if you’re using a budget-friendly printer.
Practical Tips
- Choose basic designs – A clean, simple design will not only be more affordable but also look modern and chic.
- DIY your invitations – If you’re crafty, you can design your own invites in Canva or purchase an online template from Etsy for a few dollars and print them at home.
- Avoid high shipping costs – Keep your invitations lightweight to save on postage by avoiding bulky designs and heavy paper.
We also put together a blog post with 20 ways to save money on wedding invitations.
By going digital or keeping printed invitations minimal, you can save a significant amount on your wedding stationery while still sending something beautiful.
11. Attire – Beautiful for Less
Your wedding dress or suit doesn’t have to cost a small fortune. There are plenty of ways to look amazing without spending too much. By shopping smart and considering affordable options, you can stick to your budget.
Affordable Wedding Dresses
You don’t need a designer gown to feel special on your big day. There are plenty of gorgeous, affordable options out there.
- Shop sales or sample sales – Many bridal shops offer sample sales or discounts on last-season dresses.
- Consider secondhand – Look at websites like Stillwhite or Poshmark for gently used wedding dresses at a fraction of the cost.
- Buy off-the-rack – Stores like David’s Bridal and online retailers offer beautiful dresses for under $400.
- Consider a “non-wedding” wedding dress – Online stores like Lulus or Azazie have gorgeous white dresses for a fraction of the cost of a traditional wedding gown. Plus…who said your dress has to be white? Wear any dress that makes you feel amazing.
Affordable Suits or Tuxedos
You can look sharp without spending a lot by renting or buying an affordable suit.
- Rent a suit or tux – Companies like Generation Tux, National Tuxedo Rentals, and Men’s Wearhouse offer affordable rental options that look great.
- Buy off-the-rack – Many stores like H&M or Men’s Wearhouse offer stylish suits at lower prices.
- Shop secondhand – Thrift stores or online marketplaces (Facebook Marketplace) can be goldmines for wedding attire.
Practical Tips
- Budget for alterations – Don’t forget to factor in alterations to make sure your dress or suit fits perfectly.
- Keep it simple – Avoid dresses or suits with too many embellishments or customizations to keep costs low.
- Borrow accessories – Ask friends or family if you can borrow things like a veil, jewelry, or shoes to save even more.
We also put together a blog post with 11 tips on how to save money on your wedding dress.
By shopping smart and considering secondhand or off-the-rack options, you can get the perfect wedding look without blowing your budget.
12. Miscellaneous Expenses & Emergency Buffer
When planning a wedding, unexpected expenses always pop up…ALWAYS!
That’s why it’s important to set aside a portion of your budget for misc. costs and any last-minute surprises. Having an emergency buffer will help you stay on track and avoid going over your $10,000 limit.
Plan for the Unexpected
There are always small things you don’t plan for…so having a little extra money set aside will give you peace of mind.
- Tips for vendors – Don’t forget to budget for tipping your vendors, like your photographer, caterer, or hair and makeup artist.
- Last-minute supplies – You may need to buy extra decor, favors, or signage the week of your wedding.
- Unexpected fees – There may be extra costs like delivery charges or setup fees that weren’t included in your original budget.
Set Aside 10% for Your Buffer
A good rule of thumb is to set aside about 10% of your total budget for miscellaneous and emergency expenses. This will help you handle any surprises without stressing out.
- Example – For a $10,000 budget, set aside at least $1,000 for your buffer.
- Only use it for emergencies – Try to stick to your original budget and only dip into your buffer when absolutely necessary.
Practical Tips
- Track every expense – Keep everything recorded in your printable planner, keep a spreadsheet, or use a budgeting app to track all your wedding expenses and stay within your budget.
- Leave room for flexibility – Expect things to change, so don’t overspend in any one area.
- Don’t feel pressured to overspend – It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but remember to stick to your financial plan.
By setting aside a small emergency buffer, you can handle any last-minute expenses or surprises without killing your budget. This will help you stay calm and on track as your wedding day approaches.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding for $10,000 or less may seem challenging, but with a little creativity and smart budgeting, it’s very doable (even $5,000). I know because my wife and I did it.
I have worked with many couples who were able to have their dream wedding for $10,000 or less. And some of those weddings were as large as 200 guests.
By focusing on what matters most and finding ways to save on everything else, you can have the beautiful, memorable wedding you’ve always wanted…without the stress of overspending.
Just remember to stay flexible, stick to your plan, and enjoy the planning process!
Happy planning!
More Wedding Planning Tips
Here are a few more blog posts that you might find helpful when planning your wedding:
