10 Tips to Stay on Budget for Your Wedding

Keep the wedding guest list under 100.
Limit the wedding party – keeping it small. This cuts down on the cost of attendant bouquets and gifts to each member in the wedding party.
Consider having the ceremony and reception at the same site – thereby paying only one site fee and possibly fewer total hours. This can also save on transportation costs – no need for a party bus.
Find a venue that allows you to bring your own food. This blog post lists those that we can recommend: https://bridestlouis.com/venues-that-allow-outside-caterers
Why not an early morning or early afternoon wedding. You can eliminate a lot of alcohol and possibly a band or DJ.
If your event is small and intimate, create your own personal playlist and purchase a blue tooth speaker.
Try “off season” times like December and January. Vendors will usually work with you on a special price as this is a slower time for them.
If you really want a popular month like May, June, September or October go for a Friday or Sunday to save money.
When shopping for your wedding dress, ask about off the rack “inventory” dresses. Many bridal shops have a good selection of discounted, previous year’s styles that are beautiful.
Set up a wedding checking account and make deposits monthly. Use only that money for the wedding allowing you to see what you are spending, and a better way to stay on top of the budget.