How to renew your vows on a budget

Planning a vow renewal on a budget doesn’t mean compromising the significance or beauty of the event. With thoughtful planning and some creativity, you can create a memorable and heartfelt ceremony without overspending. Here are some tips on how to organize a vow renewal on a budget:

1. Set a Clear Budget

Start by determining how much you can afford to spend on your vow renewal. Break down your budget into categories such as location, clothes, food, and decorations to keep track of spending and identify areas where you can save, and where to spend on the areas that really matter to you.

2. Limit the Guest List

One of the easiest ways to save when planning any event is to keep the guest list small. Keep the ceremony intimate by inviting only close family and friends. This not only cuts down costs on venue size and catering but also makes the event more personal and meaningful.

3. Choose a Budget-Friendly Venue

Consider budget locations such as your own home or garden, local parks, or community centres, which can be significantly cheaper than commercial event spaces or traditional wedding venues. If you choose a public space like a park, check if you need a permit, as these are usually inexpensive.

Get Inspired: 18 inspiring locations for a vow renewal

4. DIY Decorations and Details

Get creative with DIY projects for decorations, invitations, and even floral arrangements. Use resources like Pinterest for inspiration and tutorials. Crafting your decor adds a personal touch and can significantly reduce costs. Alternatively, opt for a venue that requires little decoration.

5. Opt for Casual Catering

Instead of a formal sit-down meal, consider more casual dining options like a buffet or barbecue. Or consider the time of day, catering a brunch or afternoon tea can be a more cost-effective option and equally enjoyable.

There are plenty of options for food and drink to keep it minimal. The venue may have a bar where your guests can buy their own drinks, or if there is no bar you may be able to get your guests to all bring a bottle! 

6. Send Digital Invitations

Save on paper and postage by sending digital invitations. There are many elegant templates available that you can personalize and email or send via social media. If you have your heart set on physical invitations consider designing them with Canva and print them yourself.

7. Use Items you already own

If possible, use items you already own, such as rings, suits, dresses, etc. You might even opt to re-wear your original wedding dress; This not only saves money but also adds a nostalgic touch to your renewal ceremony.

You can also consider borrowing or hiring a dress.

8. Hire a Local Celebrant

Find a local celebrant who can help you craft a personalized and meaningful ceremony without the high cost of travel or premium fees. Celebrants often have various packages to suit different budgets and needs.

9. Save on Entertainment

Instead of hiring a band or DJ, create a playlist of meaningful songs that you can play using a simple speaker setup, or hire a solo performer and ask them to play background music in between sets. Ask a musically inclined friend to perform, or if you’re hosting at home, a home karaoke setup can add a fun and interactive element to your celebration.

10. Creative Photography Options

Instead of hiring a professional photographer for several hours, hire one just for the ceremony or ask a talented friend to take photos. You could also set up a “selfie station” with a backdrop and props where guests can take their own photos and use a unique hashtag to see all the photos together online.

Summary

By prioritizing what truly matters to you and your partner and implementing some of these budget-friendly strategies, you can plan a vow renewal that is both beautiful and affordable. Remember, the day is ultimately about celebrating your love and commitment to each other, and that doesn’t require a lavish expenditure.