12 Hidden Logistics We Dodged When Planning a Wedding Under $2,000

Our luxe backyard would be wedding turned engagement party was an absolute dream and most importantly, we did not break the break to achieve the vibe we wanted.

To keep a budget this tight, you have to avoid the tiny expenses that bleed you dry. We successfully avoided:

1. Venue rental deposits (used our home)

2. 2. Cake cutting fees (bought a cake from Wegman's)

3. 3. Caterer service taxes (aunt catered for $1200)

4. 4. Invitation paper costs (free canva invites)

5. 5. Envelope postage stamps (text message invites)

6. 6. Signage design fees (Walgreens printed 2 signs for less than $20)

7. 7. Floral setup surcharges ( purchased flowers from Trader Joes)

8. 8. Table linen rental costs (Amazon Table cloths)

9. 9. Bar setup fees (Used a rectangle table with signature drink sign printed for $1 at Walgreens)

10. 10. Makeup trial fees (did my own makeup)

11. 11. Hair stylist travel surcharges (went to salon myself)

12. 12. Date-change penalties (Kept date as is)

    
    

When two key family members couldn't make it, our lack of strict vendor contracts allowed us to instantly pivot this day into an amazing pre-wedding party. We got the joy of celebrating with 80 loved ones, and we get to do the official ceremony one year later.