I have to admit that is has been a very long time since I married my husband. And we actually got married in the month of August which isn’t at all during the off season.
But more recently I have helped a few friends and family members with different aspects of their weddings. In doing so I have learned that if I had to do it again, I would likely have an off season wedding to save money.
1. Less Demand
One of the big reasons an off season wedding could save you money is because there is obviously less demand. The less the demand the more you can save when you begin calling vendors.
For example, if you are trying to set your date with a vendor, late October or early November might be a good time to get married. The reason is because some vendors will see a drop in wedding events during the fall months.
Such vendors as photographers, videographers, and limousines companies as well as others have less business during the off months. This can result in greater availability of dates for your wedding as well as a lower cost.
To maximize your savings, try negotiating with vendors on price. They will be more likely to book your event at a little lower cost rather than take the chance of losing your business.
2. Cheaper Travel
Weather is another factor that could give you increased savings for an off season wedding. Due to the higher risk of inclement weather, less people travel during the off months of October through April. Therefore, airlines and hotels may have lower prices making travel more appealing to out of town guests during those months.
Of course, you also might run the risk of some guests not making it at all if the weather is unsafe for travel. If you live in an area where the possibility of bad weather is very low, though, you may want to take the chance and book during the off months.
Honeymoon travel costs could be less during the off season as well. Check ahead of time or by going through a travel agent to get the lowest prices and save the most.
3. Lower Cost Décor
Decorations for a wedding and reception can get very pricey. Something that can help with that is reusing what is already there.
For instance, if the church where the wedding will take place is already decorated for fall, you may not have to do much. This means less to buy and increased savings for your honeymoon or to start your new life together.
When it comes to décor you could also try to use some natural elements from your backyard or that of a friend to keep expenses in check. Pinecones, twig wreathes, greenery and other natural elements can help set the mood for a fall wedding. Add a few yards of burlap and some candles and your tables are set.
4. Sales
Don’t forget about sales when you are contemplating an off season wedding. Dresses, tuxedos, accessories, and even rings might be able to be purchased for less during the off season.
Saving ahead for your wedding is important too, but coupled with discounts and sales you can easily make an off season wedding much more affordable.
5. Enlist Help
Another reason an off season wedding could save you money is because of enlisting help. During the off season you may have friends and family who have more time to help.
With a decrease in demands on their time you could have a florist friend help with the flowers. Or maybe you have a friend who is a photographer and will take wedding pictures at the cost of the supplies.
Average wedding costs currently run into the 5 digits. However, there are plenty of reasons an off season wedding could save you money. If you have been trying to set a date, maybe you should start there and save.
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Personal Capital lets you see all of your accounts in one convenient place. Sign up now for free.Do you know anyone who has had and off season wedding and saved?
Jeanne says
Sure, if something we post would help them out, that would be great!