01/20/2025
Case Study: Emily and David’s Budget-Friendly Austin Wedding
1. Venue Selection
Emily and David chose the Texas Federation of Women’s Clubs Mansion, a historic Georgian-style mansion in Austin. The rental fee was $1,500, which included tables and chairs, reducing the need for additional rentals. 
2. Guest List
To maintain an intimate atmosphere and manage expenses, they limited their guest list to 50 close friends and family members. Reducing the guest count helps lower costs related to catering, invitations, and favors.
3. Catering
Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, the couple opted for a buffet-style meal provided by Scholz Garten, the oldest restaurant in Texas. The BBQ plates started at $9.50 per person, totaling approximately $475 for 50 guests. Choosing a local eatery with affordable options helped them stay within budget. 
4. Attire
Emily found her wedding dress at a sample sale for $250, and David purchased a suit on sale for $150. Exploring sales and second-hand options can yield significant savings on wedding attire.
5. Photography
They hired a local freelance photographer for three hours at $500, focusing on key moments like the ceremony and family portraits. Limiting photography time ensures capturing essential memories while staying within budget.
6. Decorations
Recognizing the need for a realistic decoration budget, Emily and David allocated $500 for decorations. They purchased materials from local craft stores and online marketplaces to create centerpieces, signage, and other décor items themselves, adding a personal touch to the venue. DIY projects can be both cost-effective and meaningful.
7. Music
Instead of hiring a DJ or live band, the couple curated a playlist of their favorite songs and played it through the venue’s sound system. This approach saved money and ensured the music reflected their tastes.
8. Flowers
To further reduce costs, they opted for artificial flowers purchased from a wholesale supplier for $100. This choice allowed them to prepare arrangements in advance and avoid the potential wilting of real flowers.
9. Invitations
Emily and David utilized Paperless Post to design and send digital invitations, costing them $50. Digital invitations are eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and offer a variety of customizable designs. 
10. Cake
They ordered a simple yet elegant two-tier wedding cake from Michelle’s Patisserie, a reputable bakery in Austin, for $250. Opting for a local bakery with affordable options ensured a delicious cake without overspending. 
Budget Breakdown:
• Venue: $1,500
• Catering: $475
• Attire: $400
• Photography: $500
• Decorations: $500
• Music: $0
• Flowers: $100
• Invitations: $50
• Cake: $250
• Miscellaneous (licenses, rings, etc.): $225
• Total: $4,000
By thoughtfully allocating funds and incorporating DIY elements, Emily and David celebrated their wedding day beautifully without exceeding their $5,000 budget. This case study demonstrates that with strategic planning and resourcefulness, a memorable wedding is possible without significant financial strain.
