How To Save Money On A Wedding Venue (10 Great Tips!)
If you wondering how to save money on a wedding venue, this article is for you!
Your wedding venue is one of the biggest expenses in your budget, but there are plenty of ways to save without sacrificing your special day.
From choosing the right location to getting creative with your options, a little planning can go a long way. This post is packed with practical tips to help you find the perfect venue that fits your style and your budget.
1. Host Your Ceremony and Reception at the Same Venue
Why it Saves Money:
Booking one venue for both your ceremony and reception can save you big on transportation, rental fees, and decor costs. Plus, it’s way more convenient for everyone involved!
Tips to Make It Work:
- Book the Same Space for Both Events:
Many venues charge less when you combine your ceremony and reception in one location. It cuts down on transportation costs and simplifies logistics for your vendors. - Negotiate a Package Deal:
If you’re planning to use the venue for other events…like your rehearsal dinner…ask about package discounts. Most venues are happy to work with you to secure more of your business. - Reuse Decor:
Save time and money by using the same flowers, backdrops, and other decor pieces for both spaces. Bonus: this creates a cohesive look for your wedding day! - Check Setup Times:
Some venues will let you set up early, which means less stress and no scrambling between locations. Be sure to ask about this before you book! - Ask About Multi-Space Discounts:
If the venue has multiple areas (like a garden for the ceremony and a ballroom for the reception), they might offer a discount for booking more than one space. Always ask…you might be surprised by what they’ll include.
Pro Tip:
Let your venue know your budget upfront. If they know you’re looking to save, they’re more likely to suggest cost-effective solutions, like flexible layouts or fewer add-ons.
2. Consider Non-Traditional Venues
Why it Saves Money:
Think outside the box! Non-traditional venues…like parks, libraries, or even family properties…often cost way less than the usual wedding spots. Plus, they add a unique charm to your big day.
Tips to Save:
- Look into Public Spaces:
Parks, museums, and libraries can be beautiful, affordable options. Many public spaces only charge a small rental fee or require a permit, making them a budget-friendly alternative. - Use Family Property:
If someone in your family has a large backyard, a scenic farm, or even a cozy cabin, ask if you can use it for your wedding. It’s sentimental and free…or at least much cheaper than renting a venue. I got married on family property and it was amazing! - Check Out Local Restaurants or Cafes:
Smaller receptions work beautifully in intimate spaces like restaurants or coffee shops. Many will let you rent the space for the evening, and some may even include catering in the cost. - Choose Naturally Beautiful Locations:
Venues with stunning natural beauty…like beaches, gardens, or mountain overlooks…can save you money on decorations since the scenery does all the work. - Explore Bed and Breakfasts or Farms:
Quaint bed and breakfasts or rustic farms are often more affordable than big wedding venues. They also tend to have a lot of charm and may include overnight accommodations for you or your guests.
Pro Tip:
Ask about hidden costs like permits, insurance, or vendor restrictions when booking a non-traditional venue. Knowing these details upfront will help you stick to your budget.
For even more ideas, check out my blog post below:
***Related blog post: 25 non-traditional venue ideas for any budget
3. Avoid Expensive Locations
Why it Saves Money:
Big cities and tourist hotspots might seem glamorous, but they often come with sky-high venue fees and extra expenses. By steering clear of these areas, you can save a significant chunk of your budget while still having a stunning wedding.
Tips to Save:
- Explore Smaller Towns:
Venues in smaller towns typically cost much less than those in major cities. You’ll get the same charm (or even more!) for a fraction of the price. - Go Beyond the City Limits:
Scenic spots just outside of big cities often offer breathtaking views without the hefty price tag. Plus, they’re usually quieter and more private. - Avoid Tourist Destinations:
Popular vacation spots or well-known landmarks often charge premium rates for event spaces. Skip the crowds and the high costs by choosing a lesser-known gem. - Compare Nearby Regions:
Sometimes the next town over or a nearby county has fantastic venues at significantly lower prices. Take the time to research options in different areas…you might be surprised at what you find! - Ask Local Vendors for Tips:
Vendors like photographers, florists, and planners know the area well and can often recommend budget-friendly venues that aren’t widely advertised.
Pro Tip:
When choosing a less expensive location, consider travel costs for you and your guests. Savings on the venue can be offset by higher transportation or accommodation expenses, so look for a balance that works for everyone.
4. Book on Weekdays or Off-Peak Dates
Why it Saves Money:
Venues charge premium rates for Saturdays and popular wedding months. By choosing a less in-demand day or season, you can save a significant amount and still have the wedding of your dreams.
Tips to Save:
- Opt for a Weekday Wedding:
Hosting your wedding on a Thursday or Friday can dramatically cut venue costs. Plus, many vendors offer discounts for weekday events, so the savings can really add up. - Choose Winter Months:
Consider getting married in January or February, when venue prices tend to be at their lowest. Bonus: winter weddings can feel magical with cozy decor and seasonal touches! - Go for Midday Celebrations:
Morning or afternoon weddings often come with lower rental fees. Pair it with a brunch or lunch reception for even more savings. - Avoid Peak Wedding Months:
Skip the busy months like June, September, or October. Instead, look into shoulder seasons, like early spring or late fall, for better rates and fewer scheduling conflicts. - Consider Holiday Sundays:
A Sunday wedding before a Monday holiday (like Memorial Day or Labor Day) can be a win-win: discounted rates for you and a long weekend for your guests.
Pro Tip:
If you’re considering an off-peak date, book early. While venues may be less busy during these times, the best ones still get scooped up fast!
5. Limit the Guest List
Why it Saves Money:
The more guests you invite, the more you’ll spend on everything…venue, catering, rentals, and decor. A smaller, more intimate wedding isn’t just budget-friendly…it’s also more personal and meaningful.
Tips to Save:
- Choose a Smaller Venue:
Fewer guests mean you can book a cozier venue, which often costs less than larger spaces. Plus, small venues tend to have a more intimate vibe. - Cut Back on Food and Drink Costs:
Catering is one of the biggest wedding expenses. By trimming the guest list, you’ll reduce your food and drink bill significantly. - Rent Less:
A smaller crowd means fewer tables, chairs, linens, and other rentals. This is a simple way to keep your costs down without sacrificing quality. - Simplify Decor and Setup:
Decorating a smaller space is faster and cheaper. Focus on a few key details to create a beautiful atmosphere without going overboard. - Keep It Personal:
Limit your guest list to close family and friends. It’ll save you money and ensure your wedding feels special and personal.
Pro Tip:
If you’re struggling to trim the guest list, start by setting a clear rule…like inviting only those you’ve spoken to in the past year…or cutting plus-ones and kids. Sticking to a guideline makes the process easier and less emotional.
6. Use Onsite Resources
Why it Saves Money:
Venues that offer included essentials like tables, chairs, and linens can save you a ton on rental fees. Plus, they often provide other perks that make planning easier and more affordable.
Tips to Save:
- Check What’s Included:
Ask if the venue provides tables, chairs, and linens as part of their package. These basics can add up quickly if you need to rent them separately. - Look for Built-In Decor Options:
Some venues offer simple centerpieces, lighting, or backdrops that you can use at no extra cost. Even small additions can save you money and effort. - Ask About Audio-Visual Equipment:
Many venues have built-in sound systems, projectors, or microphones. Using their equipment is often much cheaper than renting from an outside vendor. - Utilize In-House Staff:
If setup and cleanup are included in your venue fee, take full advantage. This not only saves money but also reduces stress on your big day. - Consider In-House Catering and Bar Service:
Venues with in-house catering or bar service often bundle these options at a lower price than hiring outside vendors. Be sure to compare costs before making a decision.
Pro Tip:
When reviewing the venue’s package, ask for an itemized list of what’s included. This will help you spot potential savings and avoid surprise fees.
7. Consider All-Inclusive Venues
Why it Saves Money:
All-inclusive venues can simplify wedding planning and often bundle services at a lower price than hiring multiple vendors. But keep an eye on the numbers…sometimes in-house catering can be pricey, so it’s worth comparing costs to make sure you’re truly saving.
Tips to Save:
- Look for Comprehensive Packages:
Many all-inclusive venues provide catering, rentals, and decor in one bundle. This can save you from juggling multiple vendors and usually comes with a lower combined cost. - Check for Bar Service Add-Ons:
Venues that include bar services in their packages can be more cost-effective than hiring a separate bartender or bringing in your own alcohol (depending on the corkage fees). - Ask About Additional Discounts:
Some venues offer package discounts for extras like sound systems, lighting, or even florals. Be sure to ask what’s available and included. - Look for a Day-of Coordinator:
Venues with a day-of coordinator included in their package can save you the cost of hiring a separate planner. This is especially helpful for reducing stress and ensuring everything runs smoothly. - Choose Flexible Options:
All-inclusive doesn’t have to mean cookie-cutter. Some venues let you customize packages to fit your needs and budget, so ask about options to add or remove services.
A Word of Caution:
In-house catering is often a major cost in all-inclusive packages. Before committing, compare the venue’s catering prices to quotes from other caterers. If the in-house option is significantly more expensive, consider a venue that allows outside catering. Sometimes it’s just about laying out all your options and doing the math…what seems like a deal at first glance might not actually save you money in the long run.
Pro Tip:
Don’t be afraid to ask for a breakdown of each item in the package. Knowing exactly what you’re paying for can help you decide if an all-inclusive venue is worth it for your budget.
8. Book Early to Lock in Rates
Why it Saves Money:
Booking your venue well in advance helps you avoid price hikes and gives you access to better payment options. Plus, many venues offer discounts or perks for early reservations, so it’s worth planning ahead!
Tips to Save:
- Reserve Your Venue Early:
Aim to book your venue at least a year in advance. This not only locks in current rates but also gives you the widest selection of dates and spaces to choose from. - Ask About Early Booking Discounts:
Many venues reward early birds with special pricing or promotional deals. Be sure to ask if they have any offers for couples booking far in advance. - Explore Payment Plans:
Some venues allow you to break up payments into installments. This can make it easier to manage your budget without scrambling to pay everything upfront. - Negotiate Perks:
If you’re ready to commit to an early booking, don’t be afraid to ask for extras like complimentary setup, upgraded decor, or a discount on additional services. Venues are often open to sweetening the deal. - Confirm Rates and Inclusions:
Before signing the contract, double-check that the current pricing and all agreed-upon services are clearly listed. This ensures you’re protected against unexpected charges down the line.
Pro Tip:
Booking early also gives you more time to compare other vendors and options, ensuring you get the best deals across the board…not just for your venue!
9. Clarify What’s Included in the Cost
Why it Saves Money:
Surprise fees can add up fast and blow your budget. By understanding exactly what’s included in your venue package upfront, you can avoid unexpected costs and plan your finances with confidence.
Tips to Save:
- Check for Included Essentials:
Ask if tables, chairs, and linens are part of the base rental fee. These items can be costly to rent separately, so knowing they’re included is a big plus. - Watch for Hidden Fees:
Common hidden costs include taxes, gratuities, setup charges, or cleaning fees. Be sure to ask about these upfront so you can factor them into your budget. - Understand Decor and Cleanup Policies:
Some venues have strict rules about decorations or charge fees for cleanup after the event. Make sure you know the policies to avoid any surprise penalties. - Request an Itemized Package List:
A detailed breakdown of what’s included in your package helps you see exactly what you’re paying for. It also makes it easier to spot areas where you might save by removing unnecessary extras. - Clarify Service Charges and Overtime Fees:
Ask about additional costs for overtime or extra services, like extended access to the venue or additional staff. Knowing these rates upfront can help you avoid unexpected bills.
Pro Tip:
Don’t hesitate to negotiate. If you’re not planning to use certain inclusions (like linens or decor), see if the venue will reduce the fee or swap them for something you need.
10. Be Transparent and Flexible with Venue Policies
Why it Saves Money:
Understanding and respecting a venue’s policies can help you avoid unexpected fees. Being upfront about your budget and flexible with your choices can also lead to creative solutions that save you money.
Tips to Save:
- Share Your Budget Early:
Let the venue know what you’re working with financially. Many venues are willing to suggest cost-saving options or tailor packages to fit your needs. - Minimize Requests for Major Changes:
Avoid asking for big modifications, like changing room layouts or bringing in non-approved vendors. These requests often come with extra fees or logistical challenges. - Stick to the Rules:
Follow the venue’s setup and decor policies to prevent penalty charges. For example, if they don’t allow open flames, opt for LED candles instead. - Consider Alternative Spaces:
Some venues have less popular spaces, like smaller rooms or outdoor areas, that may be available at a lower rate. Flexibility with your space choice can lead to significant savings. - Clarify Setup and Cleanup Policies:
Confirm who is responsible for setup and cleanup, and ask about any associated fees. Knowing the rules upfront can help you plan accordingly and avoid surprise charges.
Pro Tip:
A positive and cooperative relationship with your venue staff can go a long way. Being respectful and flexible often encourages them to go above and beyond to help you save.
More Wedding Planning Tips
Here are a few more posts that you might find helpful when planning your wedding:
