Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also be financially challenging. With careful planning and smart saving, you can create a beautiful day without breaking the bank. Here are five key tips to help you save for your wedding:

1. Determine What is Most Important to You and Your Partner
   Start by discussing what aspects of the wedding are most important to both of you. Is it the venue, the dress, the food, or perhaps the photographer? Once you've identified your top priorities, you can allocate more of your budget toward those areas and cut back on others that are less important. This approach ensures that your wedding day reflects your shared vision and values.
   
   

2. Make a Budget
   Create a detailed budget. Begin by researching the average costs of the key elements of a wedding in your area (or, if planning a destination wedding, at the destination). Then, set a realistic budget for each category such as venue, catering, attire, photography, and entertainment. Use a spreadsheet or a budgeting app to track your expenses and adjust as needed. Remember to include a buffer for unexpected costs.
   
   

3. Save Every Payday
   Set up a dedicated wedding savings account and automate regular contributions from each paycheque. By saving consistently, you'll gradually build up the funds needed for your big day without feeling overwhelmed. Even small amounts can add up over time, so start saving as early as possible. You can also take advantage of things like Alterna’s Save the Change service, where every purchase is rounded to the next dollar, and the difference is automatically deposited in your Alterna savings account.
   
   

4. Consider Opening a Credit Card with Rewards
   If you’re disciplined with credit card use, consider opening a credit card that offers travel rewards or cashback specifically for wedding expenses. Use this card for all your wedding-related purchases and pay off the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges with the savings you are accruing. The rewards you accumulate can help offset honeymoon costs or provide a cashback bonus, effectively reducing your overall expenses.
   
   

5. Trim Costs in Less Important Areas
   Identify areas where you can cut costs without sacrificing your overall vision. For example, if the timing is less important to you, consider having your wedding on a weekday or in an off-peak season to save on rental fees. Other cost savings measures include:

• Select a non-traditional venue like the library, a brewery, a restaurant or a vacation rental home.
• Consider venues that don’t require decorations or relationships with vendors to give you a better price on ancillary services.
• Get crafty with DIY or digital invitations.
• Opt for a buffet or family-style dinner instead of a plated dinner.
• Have a charcuterie/crudites table rather than serve appetizers.
• Choose a smaller cake with a sweets table rather than a multi-tier large wedding cake.

Final Thoughts

Saving for a wedding requires thoughtful planning and discipline, but by prioritizing what’s important, creating a budget, saving regularly, leveraging credit card rewards, and trimming costs in less critical areas, you can achieve the wedding of your dreams without financial stress. Start early, stay organized, and enjoy the process of planning this special celebration. Happy planning!

To learn more about the various savings accounts, Alterna’s Save the Change program, or credit card options, schedule an appointment with an Alterna Advisor today.