• Don’t Personalize Everything – These days, you can get pretty much every single detail in a wedding personalized, from napkins and cakes to getting-ready robes, cups, suits, and more. As fun as personalization is, it can add up quickly. Customization means a higher expense, while generic things are always more budget friendly. Feel free to customize a few things, but don’t go crazy. 
  
  
• Skip Programs – Many weddings have the ceremonies, wedding parties, and other information outlines on a program. While programs are lovely and can be a great way to honor different aspects of your ceremony, they are always completely necessary. How often do you look through old wedding programs? How thoroughly do you peruse wedding programs when you’re at the wedding? Unless you have a ceremony with audience participation, you don’t need to spend money on programs. 

• Hire a New Photographer – Wedding photographers are expensive. While the photos are some of the most important memories from the day, your photographer doesn’t have to take up a large chunk of your budget. Asking a friend or a family member to take your photos is often recommended, but that is risky as you won’t be able to tell the quality of their work in advance. Instead, post on local message boards to find a photographer who is building a business and a portfolio. This way, you’ll at least be sure your pictures will be high quality. After all, new photographers don’t charge as much, but they are still professionals. 
  
  
• Create a Playlist – Like photographers, DJs and live bands are pricey. Save money on entertainment and create your own playlist for the big day. Making your own playlist guarantees that your favorite music will be played, and it will make sure songs you don’t like will not be played. Be sure to either export the playlist, download it, or pay for an ad-free streaming service to avoid buffering or ads disputing your dance floor. And don’t forget to test the speakers! The last thing you want is too loud or too quiet music on your big day. 

• Book an Affordable Event Center – The venue is oftentimes the biggest expense of the wedding. It’s important to agree with your partner on a venue that you both love, feels right, will accommodate all your guests, has excellent service, and won’t wreck your wedding budget. Go out and explore venues in your area that are in your budget. When you find ones you like, be sure to ask lots of questions about what is and is not included in the contract, so you’re not surprised by extra fees. 

Looking for a Mission, TX event center that works with your budget? We are here to help ! Call or visit us today.