How to save money for your wedding

Trivia time — how much did Chandler save for his wedding with Monica on Friends? That's a debate that's yet to be settled, but what Chandler did reveal was that saving consistently pays off. It's not about the amount — it's about the financial habits that'll get you there.

No matter what your budget's looking like so far, you can put together a wedding to remember. All it takes is a little saving and strategic spending.

In this article, we'll give you some practical tips that'll help you save up for your wedding. You'll learn everything from budgeting strategies to creative and cost-effective wedding ideas.

We'll also show you how to put your money to work for you with Revolut Instant Access Savings. Not only will it help you earn interest on your balance, but it'll also give you powerful budgeting tools that'll keep you on track all the way to your special day.

1. Open a savings account specifically for your wedding

Sure, you can keep your wedding funds in your current account along with your everyday spending money, but let's be real — you're much less likely to dip into those savings if you keep them in a separate account. Some savings accounts also pay interest, so you'll be able to grow your money consistently over time.

Revolut Instant Access Savings is one option to check out. You'll earn up to 5% AER¹ variable on your GBP balance, with interest paid daily and instant access to your funds. You're free to add money at your own pace and make withdrawals whenever you need to — without any fees, penalties, or minimum balances to watch out for.

¹ The Annual Equivalent Rate (AER) shows the interest you can earn over 1 year. AER is compounded, so you’ll earn interest on interest already earned. Rates depend on your plan type, from up to 4% on our Standard plan to up to 5% on our Ultra plan. Paid plan subscription fees and T&Cs apply. Interest offered is subject to change and any interest earned is liable to the applicable taxes. T&Cs apply.

📚 New to savings accounts? Find out what AER means and how you can use it to calculate your interest earnings.

2. Make saving a habit

This is something you can start doing even before you have a clear wedding budget in mind. Once you've opened your savings account, the idea is to add money to it consistently. It won't beef up your wedding fund overnight, but every bit adds up — and the longer the money's in your savings account, the more interest you'll earn.

Here are some tips to help you get into the habit of saving.

• Consider setting up automatic transfers to your savings.
  Many savings accounts let you schedule automated transfers every month, so you can send part of your pay cheque to your wedding fund as soon as it lands. With Revolut Instant Access Savings, you can schedule these right in-app and time them to perfection. Choose whether you want to set them up daily, weekly, or monthly, and change the amount whenever you need to. It's a great way to save without even thinking about it.
• Start small and adjust as needed.
  Not sure how much you can afford to set aside regularly? You could start by transferring about 1% of your monthly pay cheque and seeing how it goes. Then maybe try increasing that amount the next time. You might be surprised to find that you instinctively cut back on your everyday expenses when you prioritise your savings every payday.
• Try features like spare change round ups.
  If you're using Revolut, consider turning this feature on in-app to save a bit more. Whenever you make card payments, your purchases will be rounded up, and the difference will be sent to your savings account. Those pennies add up, and so does interest.

3. Look for extra sources of income

If your wedding budget needs a boost, taking on a side hustle can make a big difference. Don't know where to look? Here are some ideas to get you started. You might even discover a hidden talent in the process.

• Freelance gigs
  Got a skill like writing, graphic design, or programming? Check out websites like Upwork or Fiverr. These connect freelancers with clients who need their services.
• Consulting
  If you've got specialised knowledge in fields like marketing, finance, or IT, consulting is a great way to leverage your expertise. It gives you the freedom to set your own rates, build your network, and take on projects that fit around your other commitments. 
• Part-time jobs
  Retail and restaurant jobs, for example, are usually flexible options that you can juggle alongside your main job. They also tend to be seasonal, so consider riding the holiday waves to make a little extra money.
• Second-hand sales
  Declutter your home and make some cash by selling things you no longer need. Websites and apps like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Vinted make it easy to sell everything from clothes to electronics. You can also go old-school and have a car boot sale.

4. Cut down on your daily expenses

You know why reducing expenses can boost your wedding fund, but the how part can be a little elusive. Here are some practical tips to help you cut back without feeling like you're missing out.

• Shop strategically.
  Make a grocery list and stick to it to avoid impulse buys. Look for sales, use coupons, and consider buying the things you use frequently in bulk.
• Cancel unused subscriptions.
  Remember that free trial you forgot to cancel back in 2022? Now's the time to do some clean-up and get rid of any subscriptions you're not using. Go through your transaction history and see if there are any automated payments slipping under your radar — think streaming services, gym memberships, and the like.
• Reduce energy costs.
  Turn those lights off when you leave the room. Adjust your thermostat. Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs. Simple changes like these can lower your utility bills.
• Try meal-prepping.
  Eating out can add up quickly. Make it a goal to cook at home more often and pack your lunch for work. You may even discover your new favourite recipe.
• Look for free or low-cost entertainment options.
  Maybe host a film night at home for your friends, or sign up for community events. You don't need tonnes of money to have fun.
• Explore thrift shops.
  Buying second-hand clothes, furniture, and other items can save you a lot of money. It's also a great way to discover some unique gems that you can no longer find at retail shops.

5. Set a wedding budget

Setting a budget isn't about restricting your dreams — it's about making them achievable. With a solid budget in place, you can hone in on what truly matters to you and make it happen without breaking the bank. Here are some practical steps to get you started.

• Have the money talk with your partner.
  You're in this together, so an honest conversation about finances will help you make sure you're on the same page. Discuss your savings, income, and expectations openly. It's okay to have different financial views — the key is to find common ground and create a plan that works for both of you.
  
• Crunch some numbers.
  Start by determining the total amount you can comfortably afford to spend on your wedding. This should be an amount that won't leave you drowning in debt. Consider your sources of income and interest earnings, as well as your daily expenses.
  
• Break down your wedding expenses into categories.
  These could include the venue, catering, photography, attire, flowers, entertainment, and decor. Decide what's important to you and what percentage of the budget you want to allocate to each category. If a killer dance party is a must-have, you might want to splurge a tiny bit more on entertainment and cut back on flowers, for example.
  
  The Revolut app is a handy tool for this. You can create spending categories, set limits for each one, and monitor your progress. With easy-to-use analytics tools, you get insights into your spending trends with a clearer view of the bigger picture. It's a great way to keep yourself on track.
  
• Build in a buffer.
  Unexpected expenses will probably pop up, no matter how well you plan. Set aside about 5% or 10% for these fun surprises — you'll be glad you did. If you don't end up needing it, that's just more cash to stash in your savings account.
  
• Adjust your budget as needed.
  Life happens — you might need to move funds from one category to another. Stay flexible while still trying to keep your expenses below your max budget.

6. Shop for your wedding strategically

No guide on how to save up for your wedding would be complete without ways to save on your wedding. Healthy financial habits that you can incorporate into your day-to-day will help you save money, but shopping around for good deals will help you get the most out of it. It's the cherry on top.

We all want the fancy seaside venue and the spectacular drone photography, but there are plenty of ways to achieve a dream-worthy wedding while being mindful of your budget. It might turn out to be even better than the wedding you're envisioning. Let's look at some of the best ways to save money on your wedding.

How a wedding planner can save you money

Despite the initial cost, hiring a wedding planner can often help you spend wisely and save money in the long run. Here's how.

• They have industry connections.
  Wedding planners have established relationships with vendors and can often negotiate better rates for you. They know where to find great deals and which vendors offer the best value.
• They have insider knowledge.
  They've done this before. They're aware of hidden fees and extra charges that you might not consider, which can help you avoid unexpected costs.
• They can keep you on-budget.
  They know how to allocate funds effectively, making sure you don't overspend in one area and skimp in another.
• They can save you time.
  And time is money, after all. Delegating to a wedding planner can allow you to focus on other aspects of your life.

Pro tip — if you're not sold on the idea of hiring a full-service wedding planner, consider a day-of coordinator. Having a professional there on your wedding day can help everything run smoothly.

How to save on your wedding venue

If you've fallen in love with a pricey venue, you don't necessarily have to cross it off your list. Scheduling your wedding strategically may do the trick.

• Choose an off-season date.
  Getting married in the winter or early spring can help you snag a few discounts, whereas summer weddings tend to be more expensive. Ask about pricing during different seasons. Shifting the dates slightly can make a big difference.
• Consider a weekday wedding.
  Of course, this may not be possible due to your guests' availability, but it's worth asking around. Venues and vendors often charge less for weekday events. If most of your guests are only available during weekends, a Friday afternoon wedding may be a cost-effective solution.
• Have a morning ceremony.
  If a weekday wedding isn't an option, try a Saturday or Sunday morning wedding followed by brunch. This can be a cheaper alternative to an evening reception.

How to save on your wedding dress or tuxedo

You don't need to shell out thousands of pounds on wedding attire to look your best. Knowing where to look can help you find high-quality options at cost-effective prices.

• Look for sample sales.
  Some designers and retailers offer sample gowns and suits at highly discounted prices, sometimes up to 70% or more off the original retail price. These are usually items that have been on display at shops and are generally in excellent condition.
• Consider renting.
  This can help you find a wedding dress or a tuxedo for a fraction of the cost of buying one.
• Check out pre-owned options.
  Explore online marketplaces and thrift shops for second-hand garments. Not only will you save money, but you may find one-of-a-kind pieces that may not be available anywhere else.

How to save on wedding flowers and decor

You never fully understand how expensive wedding flowers and decorations are until you start shopping for them. Luckily, there are ways to save a bit here and there.

• Choose local, in-season flowers.
  This can be a low-cost way to put together some eye-catching bouquets and centrepieces.
• Incorporate more greenery into your arrangements.
  Greenery is generally cheaper, and it'll add a touch of freshness that'll make those flowers pop.
• Repurpose your flowers and decor.
  Make it a two-for-one. Choose versatile pieces that can be easily repurposed for different parts of the event, and move them from the ceremony to the reception.

How to save money on wedding photography

You'll want to have those photos to look back on years from now, but they don't have to be as expensive as you think. Keep these tips in mind when you're shopping around.

• Hire a local, up-and-coming photographer.
  This could even be a friend or family member. Newbie photographers charge less but are still eager to deliver great work. Plus, you can help them kickstart their portfolio.
• Book for fewer hours.
  Instead of paying for full-day coverage, consider hiring a photographer for a shorter amount of time. Focus on the key moments you want captured, like the ceremony.
• Ask for unedited photos.
  Editing takes time and effort, so some photographers charge more for edited photos. If you're savvy with photo editing software, you can ask for the raw files and edit them yourself.
• Choose digital-only packages.
  Prints and albums can drive costs up. Choose a package that includes only digital files, and you can print them later if you want to.
• Crowdsource photos.
  Encourage your guests to take photos and share them with you. You can create a unique hashtag for your wedding or use an app designed for this. It won't replace a professional photographer, but it can supplement their work. Besides, spontaneous photos taken by your loved ones have a special nostalgic flair.

How to save on catering

Simplifying your menu can be a great way to lower catering costs, while still letting your guests eat to their heart's content. Here are some handy tips.

• Choose a buffet or family-style meal.
  Sit-down dinners tend to be more expensive. Besides, an all-you-can-eat setup is one that your guests are likely to love.
• Consider a cocktail reception.
  Canapés can be just as tasty and filling as a full meal. A cocktail setup also lets your guests move around more freely, and you don't have to fiddle with seating charts. This can be a great option if you're going for a laid-back vibe.
• Choose local caterers.
  These often offer more affordable options, and you might even be able to get a package deal.

Fun DIY wedding ideas to save money

DIY is all the rage, and for good reason. These creative ideas won't just save you money — they'll also add a personal and unique touch to your special day.

• Design homemade invitations.
  There are plenty of beautiful templates available online that you can customise. You can also use recycled paper or even fabric scraps for a unique touch.
• Create garden-inspired centrepieces.
  Use flowers from a local market or even your own garden. You can use mason jars, vintage bottles, candles, greenery, or even fruits for a rustic look.
• Set up a DIY photo booth.
  Put up a backdrop made of streamers, fabric, or painted sheets. Then pull together some props for your guests to pose with, like hats, glasses, and signs. Set up a tablet with a photo booth app, and you're good to go.
• Create your own playlist.
  Who doesn't want their own custom soundtrack at their wedding? Instead of hiring a DJ, create a list of your favourite songs and borrow some speakers for the reception.
• Hand out homemade favours.
  Make small batches of jam, cookies, candles, personalised magnets, coasters, keychains — you name it. All of these will add a personal touch.
• Put up your own decorations.
  Use string lights or paper lanterns to decorate your venue. You can also make your own signs using chalkboards or mirrors.
• Make your own accessories.
  If you're crafty, you can create a veil or personalised jewellery for yourself or your partner. You can even alter your dress or tuxedo to really make it pop with your personal style.

Save up for your wedding with Revolut

Ready to build your wedding fund? The sooner you start, the sooner you'll reach your savings goal — and Revolut Instant Access Savings can help you get the most out of your money.

You can grow your savings on auto, make one-off transfers, and even save while you spend with spare change round ups on your purchases — all while racking up interest daily. You'll also get in-app analytics tools that'll help you track your progress and meet your goal.

With two-factor authentication and biometric technology, your account offers a safe space to keep your savings. For extra security, you can enable Wealth Protection to require selfie verification every time you withdraw money.

It's a great way to watch your balance grow — every single day, before the big day.

📚 Saving up for something else? Check out our guides and explore some little-known money-saving tips.

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