Wedding Budget Tips: How to Save Money on Your Toronto Wedding Without Compromising on Style

Planning a wedding in Toronto can be a dream come true, but it’s no secret that it can get expensive. From securing your ideal venue to finding the perfect dress, the costs can add up quickly. However, with a little creativity and strategic planning, you can have a beautiful wedding that fits your budget. Whether you’re hosting a large celebration or an intimate affair, these tips will help you save money without sacrificing the elegance and style you’ve always envisioned.

1. Prioritize Your Wedding Expenses

Before diving into the planning process, take some time to sit down with your partner and discuss your top priorities. Are you dreaming of a show-stopping venue, or is photography your top concern? Perhaps you want to splurge on catering, but are happy to cut back on other areas. By identifying the most important elements of your wedding, you can allocate your budget accordingly and avoid spending unnecessarily on things that don’t matter as much to you.

For example, venues in Toronto like Evergreen Brick Works or Casa Loma may offer stunning backdrops but can take up a large portion of your budget. However, if the venue is a priority for you, you can balance the cost by being more mindful of other aspects, such as minimal decor or renting your florals.

2. Rent Your Decor and Mix Fresh & Faux Florals

One major trend that’s gaining popularity among Toronto couples is renting wedding decor and mixing fresh and faux florals. This allows you to achieve a stunning, elegant look while sticking to your budget. Instead of buying all your decorations and flowers, renting from a company like Seven Events and Florals can significantly reduce costs.

At Seven Events and Florals, you can rent high-quality faux florals and premium decor items that create a luxe atmosphere without the hefty price tag. The best part? You can mix these faux florals with fresh flowers for a more natural look that’s still budget-friendly. This hybrid approach allows you to have those beautiful arrangements while saving money on costly blooms, which is especially helpful for larger installations like arches, centerpieces, or bouquets.

3. Limit the Guest List

As hard as it might be, trimming down your guest list can save you a considerable amount of money. Every additional guest means more expenses for food, drinks, seating, invitations, and favors. Consider keeping the guest list intimate, inviting only close family and friends. This not only makes the event more personal but also helps you cut down on costs associated with a large-scale event.

4. Consider an Off-Peak Wedding Date

In Toronto, prime wedding season runs from late spring to early fall, meaning venues, photographers, and other vendors often charge premium rates during these months. To save money, consider planning your wedding during the off-peak season, such as late fall or winter. Many venues, including top choices like The Toronto Botanical Garden or The Burroughes, offer discounted rates for weddings held outside of the busy months.

Additionally, you could save even more by hosting your wedding on a weekday or Sunday, as Saturdays tend to be the most expensive day to tie the knot. Monday weddings are a total vibe!

5. Opt for a Minimalist Wedding Cake

Wedding cakes can quickly become an expensive part of your wedding budget, especially with intricate designs and multiple tiers. To save money, opt for a minimalist cake or a smaller, one-tier cake. You can also consider offering other dessert options, such as cupcakes or a dessert bar, which can be both affordable and fun for your guests.

6. Rent When You Can

While DIY projects might seem like a cost-saving option, renting is often the smarter and more budget-friendly choice. Instead of buying items like candles, décor, or tableware that you’ll only use once, renting from a company like Seven Events and Florals can actually save you money. For example, renting candles is much cheaper than buying them in bulk, and you won’t have to worry about what to do with them after the event.

When you rent decor from a professional company, you're not just paying for the items—you’re also investing in convenience. Seven Events and Florals takes care of delivery, setup, and most importantly, cleanup at the end of the night. This means you can focus on enjoying your special day without worrying about packing everything up afterward. Renting also ensures you get high-quality, cohesive décor, giving your wedding a polished and professional look without the added stress.

7. Hire a Photographer for Less Time

Wedding photography is one of the most important investments you’ll make, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Many photographers offer packages with varying hours of coverage. Instead of hiring a photographer for the entire day, consider booking them for only the key moments, such as the ceremony, portraits, and first dances. This allows you to capture the essential memories without paying for hours of additional coverage.

8. Consider a Digital Drop-Off Photobooth

Adding fun and interactive elements to your wedding, like a photobooth, is a great way to entertain your guests and create lasting memories. A digital drop-off photobooth is an affordable option that gives you all the benefits of a photobooth without requiring an attendant for the whole day. With Seven Events Photobooth, for just $500, you get up to 14 hours of use with digital features like photo and boomerang modes, fun filters, and instant sharing options via text or email. It’s a fun and budget-friendly addition to your wedding, allowing guests to take home memories without adding extra stress to your budget.

Planning a wedding on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or quality. By prioritizing your expenses, renting décor, mixing fresh and faux florals, and considering creative alternatives, you can have the wedding of your dreams while staying within your budget. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or a grand celebration in Toronto, these tips can help you cut costs without cutting corners.

Looking for the Perfect Way to Decorate Your Day?

At Seven Events and Florals, we specialize in creating stunning wedding décor that won’t break the bank. With our mix of fresh and faux florals, and a variety of decor rental options, we help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted at a fraction of the cost. Contact us today to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life!

Cover photo by Magenta Flute Photography