Tips for Planning a Wedding on a Budget

Indian weddings are an expensive affair for an average middle-class family. The lavish arrangements, from gleaming high-end venues to fragrant flowers, majorly impact your wallet. You need to be extra cautious when spending on these things. Otherwise, you will have a huge bill of expenses at the end of your wedding. To help you better plan your wedding costs, we have compiled a list of some of the best wedding ideas on a budget.

How to Plan a Wedding on a Small Budget?

1. Prepare your Finances

   Budgeting is essential when planning your wedding expenses. Divide your finances to organise the various wedding functions, such as the ring ceremony, haldi, sangeet, and the actual wedding day. For example, if your total wedding budget is Rs 50 lakh, you may set aside Rs 15 lakh for buying jewellery, Rs 6 lakh for the ring ceremony, Rs 5 lakh for the haldi and sangeet, and the remainder for the wedding event.
    
   Knowing your budget beforehand can help you save money on various unnecessary expenses. You may also discuss with your parents and relatives how much money they can contribute to your simple Indian wedding budget.

2. Choose your Venue Wisely

   The venue has a significant impact on your budget. Assume you are getting married in your hometown. If the venue is on the outskirts of the town, you will have to spend a considerable sum transporting your guests to the venue. Your decorators, caterers, and DJ may also charge extra based on the distance of the wedding venue from the city centre.
    
   You may also consider the additional services provided by your venue manager. Check if the lights and basic decoration are part of your package. If not, determine whether you are permitted to contact a third-party vendor for the same or whether you must use the services of some specific vendors only.

Also Read: How to finance an engagement ring?

1. Minimise flower decorations

   We are not suggesting that you plan your wedding event without using flowers. However, whenever possible, substitute natural flowers for artificial ones. You may not realise it, but natural flowers account for most decoration costs, especially if they are out of season.
    
   You can use natural flowers on the stage and in a few places near the entrance. On the other hand, artificial flowers are ideal for selfie points, mandap pillars, and areas of less importance.

2. Purchase During the Off-Season

   Off-season purchases are the most economical option, whether you are shopping for a wedding or any other occasion. For example, in India, the most popular summer times for wedding are April, May, and the beginning of June. In winter season, mid-November, the first half of December, and February are when weddings usually take place.
    
   The demand for jewellery, designer outfits, and other wedding-related products is high during the wedding season. During this period, sellers of these products charge high prices to maximise their profits. However, if you go shopping for sarees or other items in June and July, you may be able to get the same stuff at 50%-75% less value. 

3. Cut Down on the Guest List

   Limiting the number of guests invited is one of the best low-budget wedding ideas in India. You must especially consider the cost per plate of food at your wedding when creating a budget. If you are planning a wedding at a hotel, the veg platter will cost you between Rs 1500 and Rs 2000 per plate. Thus, if you have 1000 guests, you will spend Rs 15-20 lakhs on food alone. Reducing the number of guests to 300 will bring down your total food expenses to Rs 4.5-6 lakhs.

Other Factor That You Should Consider for Planning a Wedding on a Budget

Another factor to consider is the cost of lodging. The more guests you have, the more you will have to pay for their accommodation. Also Read: A Step-by-step Guide to Getting Unsecured Personal Loans

1. Invitation Cards

   Invitation cards are among the most frivolous of wedding expenses. People nowadays are crazy about customised designer cards for their wedding invites. These cards cost around Rs 400-500 each.
    
   However, aside from the couple and their parents, no one else would ornate the card on the shelf. Most people will throw away your wedding card in the rubbish after few days. It might sound rude but this is what happens in practice.
    
   So, what is the best alternative here? You can opt for digital invitation cards that can be customised using a variety of free online tools. Many wedding photographers also provide digital invitation cards as part of their package, which might save you a lot of money.

2. Take the Help of Your Photographer Friend

   When you think of a wedding, many small or large ceremonies come to mind. However, not every event necessitates the use of a professional photographer. In any case, when selecting photos for a wedding album, you only select 4-5 photos of haldi, 2-3 photos of pre-wedding rituals, and so on. Thus, it is not a good idea to pay a professional photographer Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 to cover these minor events. Instead, you could ask a friend or relative to photograph the important moments during such functions.

3. Ditch the Wedding Planner

   Many people believe that event planners assist in lowering wedding costs. But is this true? Most probably not. Wedding planners not only make money from you, but also take commissions from various vendors.
    
   Instead of hiring a wedding planner, research the market well ahead of your wedding. Make reservations for caterers, decorators, bands, and DJs several months in advance. Spare time for them and assist them in understanding your requirements. You can also take them to the wedding venue and share your plans for the wedding day arrangements.

How Personal Loan Help You for Planning a Wedding on a Budget?

Planning a wedding on a budget can be challenging, but a personal loan can provide the financial support needed for your special day.

• Flexible Funding: Personal loans offer flexible funding, allowing you to cover various wedding expenses like venue, catering, and decorations.

• Quick Approval: Many personal loans are approved quickly, ensuring you have the necessary funds without delay.

• Affordable EMIs: With competitive interest rates and manageable EMIs, personal loans help you stick to your budget without financial strain.

• No Collateral Needed: Personal loans are usually unsecured, meaning you don't need to pledge any assets, making them easily accessible.

• Customizable Loan Amounts: You can borrow the exact amount you need, avoiding the risk of borrowing too much or too little.

• Convenient Repayment Options: Flexible repayment terms allow you to choose a tenure that best fits your financial situation, ensuring ease of repayment.

Steps to Apply a Personal Loan for Planning a Wedding on a Budget

You can avail of a Personal Loan for Planning a Wedding on a Budget with Hero FinCorp. Here are the steps to apply for a Personal Loan with Hero FinCorp. 

Step 1: Visit the Hero FinCorp website or download the personal loan app.

Step 2: Go to the Personal Loan section and click Apply Now.

Step 3: Fill out an online application form. 

Step 4: Scan and upload the necessary documents.

Step 5: Accept the loan offer.

Step 6: Get disbursal in a few minutes.

To Conclude

Indian weddings typically involve elaborate rituals and lavish arrangements that can be overly expensive. Following the tips shared in this article will surely help plan your wedding on a budget. You can even make use of personal loan for marriage to stretch your budget and to avoid dipping into your savings. If you have been a disciplined borrower in the past and have a good income, you can easily get a low personal loan interest rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I cut down on catering expenses?

To reduce catering costs, consider a buffet or family-style meal instead of a plated dinner. Opt for seasonal and local ingredients. Limit the bar to beer, wine, and a signature cocktail instead of a full open bar.

2. What are some affordable options for wedding decorations?

Use DIY decorations and incorporate items you already own. Borrow or rent decorations instead of buying new ones. Shop at thrift stores or online marketplaces for budget-friendly decor. Choose in-season flowers or use alternatives like greenery and candles.

3. How can I find an affordable wedding dress?

Look for sales and discounts at bridal shops, or consider buying a second-hand dress. Online retailers often have more affordable options. You can also rent a wedding dress or wear a family heirloom.

4. What are some budget-friendly entertainment options?

Hire a DJ instead of a live band, or create a playlist and use a sound system. Ask a talented friend or family member to perform. Consider fun and low-cost entertainment options like photo booths or lawn games.

5. How can I save on wedding photography and videography?

Hire a photography student or a less experienced photographer who offers lower rates. Limit the hours you need the photographer. Skip the videography or ask guests to capture moments using their phones.