Michele Hastings with Nikkles Photography, a San Luis Obispo Wedding Photographer, shares her tips for understanding wedding day finances. She explains where to save and where to splurge on your special day.

UNDERSTANDING WEDDING DAY FINANCES

WHAT AREAS SHOULD YOU BE SAVING ON?

ONE | INVITATIONS + STATIONARY

While invitations and stationery are essential for communicating details about your wedding, you can find cost-effective options without sacrificing style or elegance. Consider opting for digital invitations or printing your own invitations using affordable templates. Guests are more likely to appreciate the content and information provided rather than the extravagant design or printing techniques.

TWO | WEDDING FAVORS

Wedding favors can be a nice gesture to thank your guests for attending, but they often end up being forgotten or left behind. Instead of spending a significant amount on elaborate favors, consider budget-friendly alternatives. For example, you could create personalized thank-you notes or provide edible treats, such as homemade cookies or small jars of locally sourced honey.

THREE | FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS + DECOR

While flowers and decorative elements can add beauty and ambiance to a wedding, they can also be quite costly. Look for budget-friendly alternatives like seasonal blooms or greenery, which can be just as lovely. Additionally, focus on strategic placement of floral arrangements, such as using smaller centerpieces or incorporating non-floral elements like candles or lanterns. Most guests will appreciate the overall atmosphere and won’t pay excessive attention to the specific details of the floral arrangements.

WHAT AREAS SHOULD YOU BE SAVING ON?

ONE | PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY

I am not just saying this because I am a photographer! All I want for you two is to have all the beautiful memories captured that you can enjoy for every year to follow. It is the starting point of celebrating your lives together as one. So capturing the memories of your wedding day is essential. Hiring a skilled photographer and videographer can ensure that every precious moment is beautifully documented. Splurging on professional photography and videography services guarantees high-quality visuals that you can cherish for years to come.

TWO | FOOD AND DRINKS

Good food and drinks are often the highlights of any wedding celebration. Investing in a reputable caterer or a gourmet menu can elevate the dining experience for your guests. Additionally, providing a well-curated selection of beverages, including specialty cocktails or fine wines, can enhance overall enjoyment and create a memorable culinary experience.

THREE | ENTERTAINMENT

Engaging and entertaining your guests throughout the celebration is crucial. Consider investing in professional live musicians, DJs, or other performers to create an energetic and memorable atmosphere. This can include live bands, solo artists, dancers, or even specialty acts.

Interested in working with NIKKLES PHOTOGRAPHY?

If you found these tips for understanding wedding day finances helpful,
CHECK OUT MY OTHER WEDDING RESOURCES:

WHAT DOES A PERFECT WEDDING DAY TIMELINE LOOK LIKE
HOW TO PROVIDE AN EPIC WEDDING GUEST EXPERIENCE
YOUR WEDDING GUEST COUNT AFFECTS EVERYTHING