15 Smart Ways to Save on Your Wedding

An unforgettable wedding doesn't have to cost a fortune. These are the saving tips that wedding planners say actually work.

Choose a weekday or the low season

A Friday wedding instead of Saturday saves 20 to 30 percent at many venues. Getting married in October or March? The discounts are often even bigger.

Limit the guest list

Each guest costs an average of €100 to €150. Ten fewer guests quickly means €1,000 to €1,500 in savings. Choose consciously: who do you really want there?

Be smart with flowers

• Choose seasonal flowers from a local grower
• Use more greenery and fewer flowers
• Reuse ceremony flowers on the dinner tables in the evening

More saving tips at a glance

1. Request open quotes from multiple caterers
2. Rent a wedding dress or buy sample sale
3. Choose an all-in venue without a mandatory caterer
4. Replace the wedding car with a family member's classic car
5. Send digital invitations or print at home
6. Order a homemade cake from a local bakery
7. Set up a photo booth instead of a second photographer
8. Limit the open bar to beer, wine and soft drinks
9. Let talented friends contribute: music, styling or cake
10. Never negotiate on quality, only on extras

With just a few of these choices you can easily save thousands of euros — money you can spend on your honeymoon instead.