Weddings are expensive — we get it.
Between the venue, the dress, the photographer, the catering, and all the little details in between, the cost of your big day can quickly get out of hand. But here’s the good news: saving money on your wedding doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the dream day you’ve been envisioning. With a little planning, creativity, and smart choices, you can keep your budget in check and still have the wedding of your dreams.

1. Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It
It sounds simple, but this is the most important step. Having a clear idea of how much you’re willing to spend will help you avoid overspending. Take time to figure out what matters most to you and allocate your budget accordingly. For example, if the venue is your top priority, you might want to cut back on the flowers or the entertainment.

Tip: Use a wedding budget calculator (like the one on our website!) to track your expenses. This will help you stay on top of things and avoid any surprises!

2. Get Married Off-Season
If you’re flexible about your wedding date, consider choosing an off-season or weekday wedding. The peak wedding season in Ireland is typically from May to September, with Saturdays being the most expensive day of the week. If you can plan your wedding during the winter months or on a Friday or Sunday, you’ll likely find venues and vendors offering significant discounts.

Tip: Some venues offer up to 30% off for off-peak weddings! That can be a huge savings.

3. Limit Your Guest List
This is one of the easiest ways to cut costs without cutting corners. The more guests you invite, the more food, drinks, and favors you’ll need. Trim the list to only your closest friends and family. You’ll be surprised how much you can save just by cutting a few hundred euros per guest.

Tip: Start by inviting the people who matter most to you — you don’t have to invite everyone from the office or your distant cousins.

4. DIY Your Décor and Invitations
You don’t need to hire a fancy decorator or spend a fortune on invitations. There are so many beautiful and cost-effective DIY wedding ideas out there. Pinterest is full of creative wedding décor ideas that you can make yourself. Whether it’s handmade centerpieces, custom invitations, or even favors, a little elbow grease goes a long way.

Tip: Get creative with flowers! Buying flowers in bulk from a wholesaler and arranging them yourself can save you hundreds of euros.

5. Consider a Smaller or Non-Traditional Venue
Wedding venues in Ireland can be one of the largest expenses, with prices in popular cities like Dublin easily reaching €20,000 for a single-day rental. Instead, look for venues that are smaller or less traditional. A scenic spot in nature, a family home, or even a local community hall could make for a stunning wedding venue at a fraction of the cost.

Tip: If you do find a venue you love, consider a “wedding package” deal where everything is bundled together (food, drinks, decorations, etc.) to save more.

6. Limit the Bar Tab
Open bar can add up quickly. Instead, consider offering a limited selection of drinks, such as wine, beer, and one signature cocktail, rather than an all-you-can-drink situation. You can also have the bar open for a set time rather than all night long.

Tip: DIY cocktail hour with a signature drink will not only save money but add a personal touch to your wedding.

7. Negotiate With Vendors
Don’t just accept the first price a vendor gives you — you can always try negotiating. Many wedding vendors, like photographers, florists, and caterers, may offer discounts if you’re booking off-season, or they may be willing to offer a more flexible payment plan.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or ask for what’s included in the price. Often, vendors will work with your budget, especially if you’re booking more than one service with them.

8. Choose Your Wedding Dress Wisely
Wedding dresses can range from affordable to downright outrageous, but they don’t have to break the bank. Consider buying a pre-loved dress or even renting one. Online shops and local bridal shops often have fantastic off-the-rack options that still look amazing.

Tip: Consider shopping for wedding dresses in sample sales or during the off-season for deep discounts.

9. Think Outside the Cake
Wedding cakes can be surprisingly expensive, especially when you’re choosing elaborate designs. Instead of going for a multi-tiered, fondant-covered cake, consider a simple yet elegant cake that doesn’t require as much detail. You could also opt for cupcakes, a dessert bar, or even pies as an alternative.

Tip: If you want to save on cake, go for a small ceremonial cake for the cutting moment, and serve cupcakes or cookies to your guests.

10. Rethink Wedding Favors
Wedding favors are a nice gesture, but they can also add up. Instead of spending money on individual favors for each guest, consider donating the amount you’d spend on favors to a charity, or offer something practical (like a photo booth print or a thank-you note) that won’t cost a fortune.

Tip: Handwritten thank-you notes or a fun group activity like a photo booth will leave a lasting memory without breaking the bank.