Planning a wedding is exciting, but it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to finances. Weddings are often one of the biggest expenses a couple will face.
A wedding can run into hundreds of thousands of rands, and without careful planning, expenses can spiral out of control. Inflation and demand can push prices higher than expected, so get accurate quotes early on and cut costs where necessary. For example, you can trim the guest list, opt for a smaller, more intimate venue, or choose off-peak dates when facilities and services are more affordable.
The key is to prioritise, and be willing to compromise on non-essential items, says Sarah Nicholson, operations manager of JustMoney.co.za, a platform that helps South Africans make good money choices.
Kristin Wicks, owner of On the Day wedding and events company in Cape Town, says wedding budgets currently start at R350,000 to R450,000 for 100 guests. The main costs are venue hire, catering and drinks, and decor.
“Decor has evolved so much that this is one of the top three costs for couples. Venue hire averages R65,000. Floral arrangements and general decor for the ceremony and reception could incur costs of R55,000 or more. Drinks suppliers recommend budgeting R220 to R350 per person,” Wicks says.
Plan on R550 to R650 per person for a three- or four-course meal. The bride’s dress, groom’s suit, accessories, hair, and makeup could cost R45,000 to R55,000.
Live entertainment, including a DJ and sound system, can cost R12,500 upwards. A wedding cake or dessert table may rack up a further R4,500 to R10,000. Budget R3,500 to R6,500 for the marriage licence and officiant.
The good news is, with careful budgeting and planning, you can say “I do” for far less, says Nicholson.
“It’s possible to have a memorable and meaningful celebration on a smaller budget, if you plan wisely. The key is focusing on what matters most to you as a couple, so you can create an occasion that reflects your love without breaking the bank,” Nicholson says.
“Do you want a beautiful venue, a designer dress, or top-notch catering? By identifying what will make your wedding special, you’ll know where to allocate the bulk of your budget, and where to save.”
JustMoney offers some practical tips for couples who want a wedding that’s both memorable and manageable.
- Set a realistic budget. Before you start dreaming of exquisite venues and flower arrangements, agree on a realistic budget. Factor in all costs, from big-ticket items such as venue and catering, to smaller details like transport. It’s crucial to budget for unexpected expenses, as they are guaranteed to pop up.
- Draw up a guest list. The larger your guest list, the larger your expenses. Focus on inviting those closest to you who’ll truly appreciate being part of your special day. Consider a more casual, post-wedding celebration with extended family and friends.
- Opt for off-peak dates. During peak wedding season, which usually runs from October to April, wedding venues and service providers charge top rates. Choosing a date in the cooler months gives you more room to negotiate.
- Look for all-inclusive packages. Many venues offer deals that bundle several services into one price. This reduces the stress and expense of dealing with multiple suppliers.
- Opt for DIY. Whether you ask a relative or friend with creative flair to bake you a cake, or you choose to make your own table decorations, there are plenty of ways to add a personal touch and save money.
- Trim flower and decor costs. Choose seasonal flowers that are affordable and readily available. Opting for greenery and candles creates an elegant atmosphere at a lower price. Repurpose flowers and décor from the ceremony for the reception.
- Be savvy with wedding outfits. Consider renting a dress or tailoring a second-hand gown.
- Trim the bar tab. Offer wine, beer, and signature cocktails with a cash bar for hard liquor. Negotiate to provide your own alcohol, but check corkage fees with the venue.
- Select a photographic package. Don’t skimp too much here, as photos are a lasting reminder of your day. Choose a professional, but request a half-day package.
- Put together a playlist. This reflects your personal taste and saves the expense of hiring a DJ.
- Plan your honeymoon. Consider delaying your holiday for a few months, giving you more time to save. Choose a local destination to avoid airfares and currency exchange costs. South Africa offers beautiful honeymoon spots, from the winelands to the Garden Route.
- Get multiple quotes. As a general rule, obtain three quotes for any product or service.
Wicks cautions, however, against making the mistake of booking the cheapest supplier.
“I’m not saying you should opt for the most expensive, but choosing the cheapest can compromise quality. For example, a cheap DJ might not have the right equipment or a cordless mic,” she notes. “Photographs taken by an inexpensive or inexperienced photographer could be skewed or poorly edited – and you can’t get those memories back.”
She advises choosing a venue that includes items such as furniture, cutlery, crockery, and lighting. “The more you have to rent, the more you will have to pay,” she points out.
Small gifts for guests to take home are no longer expected – instead, use the money for drinks.
“A common mistake couples make is spending most of the budget on the venue, and skimping on the catering, drinks, and decor. It doesn’t help to have a gorgeous venue if your decor looks cheap, or you haven’t catered properly,” Wicks notes.
“Guests won’t always remember your wedding dress or the floral arrangements, but they will remember if they left your wedding hungry, or if they were cold during the pre-reception drinks. Ensure your guests are comfortable, and have enough to eat and drink.”
Your wedding is ultimately about celebrating your love and commitment to one another, concludes Nicholson. Being smart with your budget allows you to enjoy your big day without starting your marriage in debt.
“With careful planning and a willingness to get creative, your dream wedding can still be a reality, without a nightmare price tag,” she says.
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