There’s no doubt about it: you can’t put a price tag on happiness. But you should definitely put one on your wedding day!
The good news is that, according to a survey by Emory University, marriage happiness is directly correlated to wedding expenses – and the less you spend on your special day, the longer-lasting your marriage is likely to be!
But does that mean that you’ll have to give up on all luxuries? Luckily, a well-organised destination wedding can be both affordable and elegant.
Start with the tips below!
Choose Your Destination Wisely
The biggest misconception about destination weddings is that they are very expensive. However, a survey by Bridebook showed that, on average, UK couples spent between £17,300 and £30,355 in 2020 for a wedding near their homes, while destination weddings cost an average of £14,151.
Nonetheless, your budget will be influenced by the destination you choose, making picking a location a top priority.
Firstly, consider that some of the greatest expenses associated with destination weddings are airfare, travel, and accommodation for your guests. In turn, choosing a domestic destination can help you slash these costs.
Additionally, choosing a destination that provides a natural, breathtaking backdrop can help you cut down on decorations.
- Pro tip: If you are short of ideas, consider some of the most spectacular destinations in the UK, which include the Knightor Winery in Cornwall, the Tunnels Beaches in Devon, and Lusty Glaze Beach in Newquay.
Make It Intimate
One of the greatest advantages of choosing a destination wedding is that more complex travel plans will naturally reduce your guest list, as some of your guests might not be able to travel abroad or take time off work.
However, if you have always dreamed of having an intimate wedding, you can graciously reduce the number of invitees by picking plus ones wisely, sticking to family and friends, and hosting a child-free wedding.
Add Luxury Touches
With destination weddings, it’s easy to keep costs low, especially if you have chosen a location that is naturally beautiful or more affordable than UK standards. However, thanks to these savings, you can splurge on small but meaningful luxury details that will make your day extra special.
For example, you could make a wedding guest book to give the opportunity to your guests to leave wishes and advice, or you could enhance the aesthetics of menus and favours with hand-tied ribbons. The options are nearly endless!
Work With Fewer Vendors
Generally, the more vendors you work with, the more you’ll pay for your wedding. However, there are several strategies you could leverage to keep costs down:
- Tap into the talent of family and friends (i.e.: hairstyling, makeup, or photography skills)
- Work with local or family vendors to access discounts
- Restyle a pre-loved or vintage wedding dress
- Borrow your wedding day jewellery
- Consider all-inclusive packages
- Set a casual or informal theme for your destination wedding
Use Minimalist But Elegant Decorations
When opting for a destination wedding, you’ll have the chance to pick a location that is naturally beautiful and requires little to no decorations. However, you’ll still be expected to decorate tables, chairs, and the ceremony location.
Instead of splurging on intricate flower displays and elaborate details, opt for an elegant and minimalistic motif for your wedding. For example, decorating with local herbs, flower heads floating on water, houseplants, bistro lights, and fairy lights can keep your expenses low while creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
Swap the Sit-Down Meal for a Family-Style Grazing Buffet
Catering represents one of the major expenses associated with any wedding, with UK couples spending an average of £4,000. However, you can keep costs low by skipping a formal sit-down four-course meal and opting for a grazing buffet instead.
Just make sure to focus on the quality of ingredients!
Work With a Specialised Wedding Planner
Destination weddings come with many advantages but they can be challenging to organise, especially when you are working with a tight budget! Partnering with a specialised luxury destination wedding planner for your Italian wedding, French reception, or Greek weddingmoon can help you bring your vision to life while sticking to your original budget!
