Plus my tips for finding those bridal bargains…
As a 2024 bride, my social media feeds are full of incredibly extravagant weddings, luxurious hen parties, boujee bridal showers and exotic honeymoon locations. Maybe it’s just the algorithm doing me dirty, but it’s so easy to become disillusioned when you’re a bride on a budget and are surrounded by images that would give the Royals a run for their money. You’d be foolish not to start questioning if what you’ve got planned is good enough.
But let me tell you what I’ve learned – it absolutely is enough. As a budget bride, I know how much thought, time, blood, sweat and tears has gone into every little thing I do. I’m not sure my manicure will survive if I have to peel one more sticker or sand down one more handmade sign.
Let me just clarify, I’m not taking anything away from those brides whose budget allows them to buy or hire rather than make, who have a wedding planner because they can and they want to – as brides, we are ALL queens, but I’ve just noticed a huge disparity in what I’m seeing online and many people’s reality – insta vs. reality strikes again.
So, if you’re a bride on a budget know you’re not alone. There are others who are also thriving off the buzz of finding a wedding related bargain or pinching themselves that the latest step-by-step craft project from Pinterest actually turned out ok. The effort of scouring the internet for the cheapest option of napkin or table cloth will be so worth it, I promise.
Being just over 4 months out from our wedding day, I’m in the throes of bargain hunting, crafting, creating and reminding myself it will all come together. I know on the day seeing everything exactly how I envisioned will just feel beyond satisfying.
So before I get back to it, here are my top ten tips for finding a damn good bridal bargain:
- Facebook is your friend – search terms like ‘weddings on a budget’ or ‘brides on a budget’ and you’ll discover a whole host of groups where wedding items are being sold at a much cheaper price. Plus once you’ve had your day, it’s a great place to sell any items you no longer need.
- Search Shein – Shein and Temu are actually great for wedding bits. Be sure to check out the reviews before you buy, but I’ve managed to get some amazing bargains so far, including bottles for my wedding favours, material and bits for the kids activity packs.
- Think high street – many high street stores now have bridal sections. Whether it’s just accessories you’re after or dresses, you can get some great options at a fraction of the price you’d pay at a bridal boutique. Boohoo and Pretty Little Thing have some fab ranges.
- Delve deeper into Instagram – there are some wonderful small businesses you can find on Instagram that can offer you that boujee bridal feel without the price tag. A couple of my faves: Six Stories – great for bridesmaid dresses that won’t break the bank, but are still right on trend. Gifty London – ideal for those personalised items either for hen dos, honeymoons or thank you gifts. Plus these accounts will often run competitions and girl, you just never know your luck!
- Get creative – you’ll be amazed what you can do when you put your mind to it! Try out Canva and design your own wedding stationery. Depending on how creative you are, you can start from scratch or use one of their free templates for inspiration.
- Look beyond the norm – if you’re after a cheaper and slightly more unique wedding venue, look beyond the ‘typical’ options. Consider local halls or even find a spot of land to hire if you’re after an outdoor wedding, the money you’ll save on the venue can be put back into the pot for other things.
- Don’t settle – believe me, I know how disheartening it can be to scroll for hours looking for things at the best price, but don’t settle for something out of budget if you can help it. Set those alerts online where you can and trust me, it’ll turn up.
- Etsy can be economic – whilst I know Etsy can be a little pricey at times, it’s a good place to look for things like personalised stickers or welcome signs. I’ve found some fab suppliers with beyond reasonable prices and super quick delivery.
- Be unique – you can save so much money by sticking to what you want as a couple. If you can’t afford, or don’t want a photographer, don’t – save money and create a wedding hashtag for everyone to share their photos with you. We can all get a little too wrapped up in what your wedding ‘should’ have, when in reality it might not be what you want.
- And finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help – we are all surrounded by insanely talented people who are only too happy to lend a hand. Your aunt might be able to make the cake, a friend might be a dab hand at flower arranging – put it out there and ask. If you don’t ask, you don’t get right?
Fellow budget brides, I hope this has helped… Let me know! I need to get back to my rock and roll Friday evening – this bio-degradable tissue paper isn’t going to turn itself into confetti…
P.s. This blog is not sponsored by anyone I’ve mentioned above, no ads involved! Just pure bride to bride advice!
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