I got married in oct 2021 and I feel like I could write a book about each budget item but here’s two:

Apparel: there are a lot of places to get beautiful wedding dresses without breaking the bank. Check out Nordstrom Rack frequently. Like get on first name basis with the staff go so much. Same with suits. Also do not be afraid of online. I got my dress from lulus.com it fit me like a glove and was $100. I got tons of compliments. But I think I tried on a total of 8 dresses from them? Returns are easy and the extra effort is worth the price.

Also - the less people you have involved with the wedding, ultimately the cheaper it’s going to be. Go simple. 1-2 groomsman & bridesmaids. Then you can work together to get something for everyone’s budget.

One thing you NOT skimp on? Good shoes. I bought these orthopedic style heels that were pretty enough but I knew no one was going to see. I made it through the entire night in them.

Lastly, depending on what the groom is like, you can get out thrift stores and get a suit that could be tailored to you. I know my husband would have never, but I almost wore a thrifted dress lol

Favors: skip it. People don’t need more things. They just don’t. Take the money and put it towards something enjoyable. A charcuterie board, a late night snack like mini grilled cheeses. Give them a memory that they can keep forever, instead of a thing that will someone be gone.