Where to Splurge and Where to Save on Your Small Wedding

Small weddings can run the gamut from simple to extravagant. Regardless of the number of names on your guest list, there are always ways to save or spend money when it comes to planning a wedding.

At LoveStream, most of our virtual wedding couples have a small in-person guest list and a larger number of guests watch online. While budget isn’t always the reason behind a small wedding, cutting your guest list certainly is one of the top ways to save money.

Save On: Venue Space

With a smaller guest list, you have your pick when it comes to venues. Try to choose a smaller, more affordable and intimate venue space to match your small guest list.

Splurge On: Catering

Catering is most often priced on a per-head basis. With fewer guests, you can give them a better catering experience for a lower price. $80 per plate for 20 guests is less expensive than $15 per plate for 150 guests, so be sure to splurge on catering!

Save On: Dessert

After that delectable, elegant dinner, guests won’t need a super-rich dessert. Save a little cash here by opting for a fun alternative to a traditional wedding cake, such as cupcakes ordered from a local bakery or fresh donuts.

Splurge On: Cozy Décor

You want a small wedding to feel intimate, so splurge on some lounge furniture where guests can sit and mingle (you know, in post-COVID times).

Save On: Centerpieces

Again, due to the intimate nature of a small wedding, it’s okay if you don’t have head-turning centerpieces. While a little something in the middle of each table is a nice touch, it doesn’t need to break your budget.

Splurge On: A Statement Wall

Instead, take your centerpiece money and spend it on a hip statement wall with balloons or floral arrangements. This will be the perfect photo op for wedding guests!

Save On: Music and MC

DJs and bands are great at corralling crowds and MCing the event. With a smaller crowd, most of whom you are likely very close with, you can ask a trusted friend to be your MC and control the music.

Splurge On: Wedding Favors

Because you’re so close to everyone at the wedding, you’ll want to splurge on wedding favors. Choose favors that are a little more exciting than what you find at most weddings and earn bonus points by adding a personal touch to each favor.

Splurge On: Photography, Videography and Live Streaming

Finally, you’ll want to splurge on photography, videography, and wedding live streaming. These will not only help to commemorate the big day, but the live streaming in particular will allow all of your loved ones to participate in the big event whether they can be there in-person or not.

Ready to plan your live stream wedding? Let us help! Book today or schedule a free meeting with our team to learn more about how it works.

photo credit: Brianne Hultzman Photography