Easy Ways to Save Money on Booking a Wedding Venue Budget-Friendly Tips for Couples
The biggest expense any wedding couple faces when planning the big day is the wedding venue. The location can set the tone for your celebration, along with different wedding venues having different fees for your wedding, wedding timelines and wedding day addons it can drastically change your vibe at the wedding. But it doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With the right strategies, you can secure a beautiful venue that aligns with both your vision and your budget. Here are three practical ways to save money on your wedding venue without compromising on style or experience.
1. Choose a Locally Owned Wedding Venue
Opting for a locally owned wedding venue can significantly reduce your overall costs while providing a more personal and customizable experience. Local venues often have fewer corporate restrictions and more flexible pricing, allowing couples to tailor packages based on their needs.
Why locally owned wedding venues can save you money:
Flexible Wedding Packages: Local venues are often open to customizing deals, removing unnecessary fees, or offering personalized add-ons.
Lower Minimums: Large chain venues may require high guest counts or food and beverage minimums. Local venues tend to be more accommodating.
Support Local Business: Booking locally not only helps your budget—it also contributes to your community’s economy, making your wedding more meaningful.
Local Venues like Kennedy Estate or yours truly the Lizton Lodge will often go above and beyond to make sure that you are taken care of on your big wedding day and won’t drive up your bills with hidden fees.
2. Consider an Off-Peak Date and Time
There are three big things that matter when booking your wedding are timing, timing and timing!
A proven way to save money on booking a wedding venue is by avoiding peak wedding season (Summer and Fall are our most popular and busy wedding seasons) and weekends. Most couples choose Friday and Saturday weddings. Brunch or afternoon weddings can reduce venue rental fees and catering expenses. Here at the Lizton Lodge we’re always happy to help where we can and serve brides and as well as their wedding day guest no matter what day or time!
3. Look for All-Inclusive or Flexible Venue Packages
When researching venues, pay close attention to what’s included (and what’s NOT included in your wedding day package!)
A venue base price may seem perfect upfront, but there can be hidden fees and even certain things like chairs and tables might be an extra price that can easily cause you to go over your wedding day budget if your aren't careful!
Likewise an all-inclusive venue may seem more expensive upfront, but it can actually save you money by bundling services such as catering, décor, seating, linens, and entertainment.
For refrence, the Lizton Lodge includes with your base price:
4 indoor wedding venues
3 outdoor wedding venues
The entire wedding estate for your guests to roam, wedding photography, and
Free limitless use of our own wedding decor, including arches, arch fabric, table runners and more!
Multiple venue reviews leading up to your wedding day
2 hours free to use the venue before your wedding day to do a wedding rehearsal
Set up of tables + chairs
Deluxe Bride Suite - 2 full bathrooms, balcony overlooking the pond, lots of natural light for wedding hair and makeup
Deluxe Groom Suite - 1 full bathroom, lounge area, pool table, bar area, and gaming theater
Large fire pit for hotdogs and smores! Wedding guests love it!
Onsite Venue Manager to make sure your big day is the best day ever!
Outdoor cocktail area with string lights
Final Thoughts
Your dream wedding venue doesn’t have to break your budget. By prioritizing locally owned locations, considering off-peak dates, and choosing flexible or all-inclusive venue packages, you can enjoy a stunning celebration at a fraction of the cost. Creativity and smart planning, you can find the perfect space that reflects your style and supports your financial goals.