Wedding planning 101: When to splurge and when to save
A wedding budget is a living thing. It breathes, swells and—if left unchecked—balloons. But with a discerning eye and a few well-placed edits, even the most opulent affair can be achieved without financial folly. Consider what deserves a little extra—and what you can skip or streamline without sacrificing style.
Read more: Learn how to keep your expenses on track with Ally Bank’s spending buckets
Save: Printed invitations
Foil-stamped suites with tissue liners and hand-calligraphed envelopes may feel romantic, but most end up forgotten in a drawer or the recycling bin.
Splurge: A custom wedding website
Invest in a beautiful, functional website that reflects the tone of the day. Include your story, travel information, hotel links, dress code cues and a seamless RSVP flow. A well-built site is your best early investment.
Save: Transforming the venue
A blank canvas space may seem appealing until you’re renting walls, chandeliers and velvet chairs by the dozen. If a venue requires a full overhaul to feel special, it may not be worth the effort—or expense.
Splurge: A setting with character
Choose a location that sings on its own, like a restaurant with storied tilework, a garden in bloom or a space with architectural charm. A venue that requires little embellishment is often the most chic (and ultimately, the most cost-effective).
Choose a location that sings on its own, like a restaurant with storied tilework, a garden in bloom or a space with architectural charm.
Save: Outfit changes
Skip the second (and third) look. Instead, choose a gown that transitions effortlessly from ceremony to reception—a bustle here, a sleeve there. Swap accessories after dinner if you crave transformation.
Splurge: Tailoring, hair and makeup
Your look doesn’t have to be the most expensive thing you wear—it just needs to fit flawlessly. Invest in expert tailoring and professional styling so you feel your best from aisle to after-party.
Save: The open bar
Unlimited liquor sounds generous, but often results in half-finished drinks and inflated costs. Instead, curate a streamlined selection: wine, beer and two custom signature cocktails—ideally with playful names that reflect your story (“The Meet Cute Martini”). It feels personal, not pared-down, and guests won’t miss the top-shelf tequila.
Splurge: A generous menu
A spirit of abundance is far more memorable than an elegantly plated portion. Skip the caviar and truffle foam—no one will miss them. Instead, invest in ample, satisfying fare: abundant hors d’oeuvres, a hearty seasonal main and a late-night snack that keeps guests dancing. A well-fed guest is a happy one.
Save: Table flowers
Few guests notice the centerpiece once the entrées arrive. Keep it simple: Tapered candles, seasonal greenery or a cluster of fruit can be just as effective. Better still, plan to repurpose your ceremony florals at the reception to make the most of what you’ve already invested in.
Splurge: Ceremony florals
Make your statement at the altar. A floral arch, mantelpiece or aisle installation will define the atmosphere and appear in nearly every photo. These focal arrangements not only elevate the ceremony, but they can be cleverly transitioned into reception décor with the help of your florist.
Save: The band
Live music can be enchanting, but a full band often comes with a hefty price tag. Think staging, sound equipment and a multi-person fee. If it’s not a personal priority, skip the splurge.
Splurge: The playlist
Work with a DJ, or curate a personal playlist guests can contribute to ahead of time. The right soundtrack—streamlined, specific and sentimental—keeps the party moving and the mood just right.
Save: The farewell brunch
The next morning, guests are packing bags, calling Ubers and recovering from the after-party. The farewell brunch is often skipped and seldom remembered.
Splurge: Welcome drinks
In lieu of a formal, seated rehearsal dinner, opt for a relaxed welcome cocktail hour. It’s chic, convivial and far less cumbersome. Guests can mingle freely, ease into the weekend and feel included from the outset, without the pressure of toasts, name cards or entrées.
