Did your new year start with an engagement?

If so, you’re probably ready to start planning your big day, but, like so many others, you made a New Year’s resolution to save money. What now?

It may seem tough but planning a wedding on a budget is doable. It also has some fun advantages.

There are several ways to save money as you plan your dream wedding, including on your wedding dress, location, venue, dates, and so much more!

You may be planning a wedding on a small budget, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have the wedding of your dreams.

Let’s start at the beginning – with the wedding date. Selecting a wedding date that accommodates the bride, groom and guests can seem a bit tricky. Saturday weddings have become a norm because it allows for guests to travel and doesn’t effect guests’ daily responsibilities. However, booking a wedding on a Saturday will cost more because it is in such high demand. If you’re looking for a way to save money on a venue, try selecting a mid-week wedding day.

Also, it is important to keep in mind, that although the weather in Florida during Winter is optimal for an outdoor wedding, it is the busiest time of the year which means venues may have higher prices. Consider selecting a date in Spring, Summer, or Fall, and you can instantly save.

Picking the perfect dress

You can also save money by having a casual beach wedding in Southwest Florida! Having a beach wedding means you can purchase a lovely white informal dress and use the extra money on other things, such as your honeymoon.

Decorations! Decorations! Decorations!

There are tons of beach decorations that you can create yourself! Crafting some of your wedding decorations is not only cost efficient, but also adds sentimental value to the objects surrounding you on your big day!

Grab your bridesmaids and give these DIY beach wedding decorations a try!

Reception: Dining & Dessert

Choosing menu items for a wedding can cost a lot, such as plated chicken or fish dinners. So, why not think about skipping the seated dinner? You can reduce the reception budget by serving several different appetizers, tapas, or even a buffet. These meals serving options are sure to energize your guests and encourage them to mix-and-mingle.

Another great way to cut the cost down on the reception is to create a decorated Styrofoam or cardboard tiered cake, with a real top layer for ceremonial cutting. Don’t worry, your guests can still enjoy a slice of delicious wedding cake! You can have the baker make a basic sheet cake, for the caterer to cut and serve to your guests.

West Wind Island Resort has a great team ready to help you stay on track and continue to save money.

There are endless possibilities to save money on the wedding of your dreams. Check out West Wind Island Resort’s Pinterest page for beach wedding inspiration and more ideas on how to keep your wedding ideas on budget.

Kick-off your planning process by contacting our event coordinator to discuss ways to be cost efficient at West Wind Island Resort. For more information, visit our Weddings & Events page or call us today at 239-472-1541 or 1-800-824-0476.