Let’s face it: wedding planning in 2025 looks different. With inflation impacting everything from flowers to food, looming tariffs, and financial uncertainty at the forefront for many couples, it’s more important than ever to be strategic with your wedding budget. But there is good news! You so don’t have to sacrifice style, fun, or any of the joy of your biggest day to stay on budget. With a few smart moves, you can plan a beautiful, meaningful wedding that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re just starting or deep in the planning process, these affordable wedding planning tips will help you simplify, save, and still celebrate in style.

1. Set a Realistic Budget—Then Prioritize

Creating a realistic wedding budget is step numero UNO for planning a celebration that feels joyful, not stressful. With rising prices in 2025, it’s more important than ever to sit down early and map out what you can afford. Once your total budget is in place, identify which elements of your wedding matter most—then prioritize spending there while trimming back on things that aren’t that meaningful to you (goodbye, sand ceremony).

Smart budget planning tips:

• Use a free online wedding budget calculator to track costs
• List your top 3 priorities (e.g., dress, food, photos) and budget accordingly
• Stay flexible—prices may fluctuate, so make sure to build in a buffer for surprises
• Please, avoid going into debt! The best weddings are joyful, NOT financially draining

2. Keep Your Guest List Intentional

Each and every person you invite adds to your overall cost, which makes your guest list one of the most powerful tools in managing your budget. By keeping your celebration small and intentional, you don’t just save money on food, seating, and favors—you also create a more personal, memorable experience for everyone involved.

Why a smaller guest list saves big:

• Catering and rentals are typically priced per person 
• Smaller weddings allow for better venues at lower rates
• You can redirect your budget toward guest experience or personal touches
• More time for meaningful moments with each attendee (which is what it’s all about anyway)

3. Score Major Deals at the David’s Bridal Sample Sale

One of the easiest ways to save on your wedding is by shopping with strategy—starting with the David’s Bridal Sample Sale, happening nationwide May 28–30, 2025. Brides, bridesmaids, moms, and prom-goers alike can score stunning archival and as-is styles at once-in-a-lifetime, tariff-free prices.

Here’s what’s on sale:

• Wedding dresses for $25, $50, or $75
• Archival and as-is gowns at deep (deeeep) discounts
• Beautiful dresses for bridesmaids, moms, party guests, and prom starting at just $10
• In-store only—arrive early for the best selection!

This is a rare chance to grab a designer-quality gown for less than a dinner out—freeing up budget for other wedding-day musts. Find a location near you.

4. Consider Weekday or Off-Season Dates

Booking your wedding during the quote-unquote “off season” is a tried-and-true way to make your budget stretch further. Venues and vendors often charge significantly less for weekday weddings (we know, it’s hard to wrap your head around) or those held during the off-season—basically November through April—giving you more flexibility and freedom to invest in what really matters to you.

Pros of off-peak wedding dates:

• Save thousands on venue rentals and vendor rates
• Access more availability and better service
• Create a unique experience with less scheduling stress
• Great for elopements, micro weddings, or brunch ceremonies

5. Embrace Affordable Wedding Venues

When it comes to budget-friendly wedding venues, thinking outside the box can save you big bucks. You don’t need a traditional ballroom to host a beautiful event—public parks, backyard spaces, community centers, or even breweries can offer stylish, low-cost alternatives to high-end venues.

Our fave creative affordable venue ideas:

• Backyard weddings with rented tents and DIY décor
• Local parks or beaches with low permit fees
• City-run halls or libraries with character and charm
• Airbnbs or vacation rentals (just confirm event rules)

By focusing on the atmosphere and meaning behind your venue—not just the price tag—you can create a wedding that feels both intentional and affordable.

Your Wedding Shouldn’t Add Financial Stress

Planning a wedding in an uncertain economy can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to rethink tradition and get creative. By focusing on what truly matters to you, shopping smart (like hitting the David’s Bridal Sample Sale May 28–30…hope we see you there!), and being flexible, you can plan a day that feels intentional, joyful, and affordable. Because the best weddings? They’re not about what you spend. They’re about how you celebrate.

Looking for more tips? Check out Pearl by David’s for all the latest trends, advice, and more.