Cheap and chic weddings: tips for an elegant wedding without breaking the bank

Introduction

An elegant wedding without breaking the bank? It can be done!

Do you dream of a chic and romantic wedding without sacrificing your savings? A cheap wedding is possible!

Forget preconceived ideas, planning an elegant wedding and unforgettable doesn't necessarily mean spending astronomical sums of money.

In this article, we provide you with a wealth of tips and advice to help you organize the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.

An average wedding in France costs €13500 for 100 guests.

Together with the caterer, reception venue, wedding photographer, florist and other service providers, the wedding budget can quickly fly out the window.

Many of you would like to optimize your budget for a cheap weddingbut elegant and in your image.

Follow our guide to make your romantic wedding a dream day without taking out 4 loans.

Cheap wedding - wedding photographer Lyon Clermont Ferrand couple session in a field of white flowers
wedding reception venue dordogne

What does this article cover?

Organize a chic and inexpensive weddings is a challenge, but it's possible!

In this complete guidewe'd like to share our best tips and advice to help you realize the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.

You'll discover :

  1. How to define and stick to your budget
  2. How to find quality service providers at affordable prices.
  3. Wedding reception venues in Lyon, Paris, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Clermont-Ferrand.
  4. Ideas for original and economical DIY decoration
  5. Alternatives for meals and entertainment.
  6. Tips for a cheap wedding photographer.

 

Whether you're looking for inspiration or need help planning your wedding, this article is for you.

So don't wait any longer, read on to discover all our secrets!

 

Cheap weddings: setting budgets and priorities

Set a realistic and precise budget

Defining a precise budget is the first crucial step in organizing a chic wedding without breaking the bank.

It's the foundation on which your entire organization rests.

To do this, start by listing all your expenses, including :

  • The inexpensive reception venue
  • The ceremony
  • Meals and drinks: caterer
  • The bride and groom's outfits
  • Alliances
  • Announcements
  • Decoration
  • The inexpensive wedding photographer (beware of disappointment)
  • The DJ
  • The flowers

Be realistic and precise in your estimates.

Don't hesitate to ask for quotes from several suppliers to compare prices. Catering is usually the biggest expense.

Next, define your priorities. What's most important to you? The ceremony? The meal? The decorations? The venue?

Adjust your budget according to your priorities. It's possible to make savings on certain items so you can invest in others that are more important to you.

 

Tips for an inexpensive wedding

Here are some tips for setting a realistic and accurate wedding budget:

  1. Use an online budgeting tool.
  2. Compare prices from different suppliers.
  3. Think of economical alternatives: DIY, recycling, leboncoin.fr
  4. Define an emergency budget for unforeseen events.

By setting a realistic and precise budget, you'll have better control over your spending and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Important tip to optimize your budget and get the best service providers cheap weddingsYou can organize your wedding in the off-season (November to April) or during the week.

You could benefit from discounts ranging from -20% to -50%!

In fact, an off-season or weekday wedding budget costs much less. You can save up to -50% on peak-season wedding rates. Opt for a winter wedding.

On the other hand, as this is the low season for service providers, they can offer you à la carte services. And at a lower price.

This is certainly the most important tip, and the one that will save you the most money on your wedding budget.

And don't forget that the most important thing is to celebrate your love with the people you love, without breaking the bank.

Identifying the most important elements for your wedding

Now that you've defined a precise budget, it's time to identify the most important elements for your wedding.

This is the stage where you assert your taste and personality.

Opposite, the Domaine de la Ruisselière at Lacenas (69) in the Beaujolais region.

Article: Wedding at the Domaine de la Ruisselière

 

Domaine de la Ruisselière Rhône - wedding photographer Lyon Clermont Ferrand

Questions to ask yourself

To help you make your choices, here are a few questions to ask yourself:

What's most important to you? The ceremony? The meal? The decorations? The entertainment?

What style of wedding would you like? Chic and bohemian? Retro and vintage? Modern and minimalist?

What atmosphere would you like to create? Romantic and festive? Casual and convivial? Elegant and refined?

What are your favorite wedding memories?

What do you remember about the weddings you attended?

What would you really like for your wedding?

 

By answering these questions, you'll be able to identify the elements that are most important to you and that will enable you to create a unique wedding that reflects your image.

Examples

Here are a few examples of important wedding elements:

The ceremony This is the moment when you make a commitment to each other. You can choose a religious, civil or secular ceremony.


The meal The perfect opportunity to share a convivial moment with your guests. You can choose a traditional meal, a buffet or a cocktail reception.


Decoration It's an opportunity to create an atmosphere that reflects your personality. You can choose DIY or recycled decorations, or call in a professional.


Entertainment They're the perfect way to entertain your guests and create a festive atmosphere. You can choose a DJ, a live band, games and more.


Visit cheap wedding photographer : he's there to immortalize the highlights of your day. You can choose a young professional photographer who's just starting out or who wants to get started.

The wedding dress It's the dress of your dreams! Some stores rent wedding dresses. You can even find a second-hand one, or why not buy a cheap one?

The groom's suit It has to be elegant and make you look your best.

You can choose a traditional costume or a second-hand one.

Don't forget that the most important thing is to choose items that suit you and make you happy.

 

Prioritize your spending and make informed choices

Make a selection

Once you've identified the most important items for your wedding, it's time to prioritize your spending.

This is the stage when you'll have to make well-considered choices to stay within your budget.

To help you prioritize your spending, here are a few tips:

  1. Think about how important each element is to you.
  2. Compare prices from different suppliers.
  3. Think of economical alternatives: DIY, recycling, etc.
  4. Define an emergency budget for unforeseen events.

Your priorities

Here are some examples of wedding priorities:

  1. The inexpensive wedding photographer
  2. The inexpensive wedding reception venue
  3. the caterer
  4. the wedding dress
  5. decoration and flowers

 

On Google, don't hesitate to search for "DIY wedding Lyon" "DIY wedding Dijon"etc. depending on your city.

By prioritizing your spending, you'll be able to focus on the elements that are most important to you and that will enable you to create a unique wedding that reflects your image.

chateau de gondole wedding in isoire - fumigenes witnesses

Cheap weddings: choosing the right service provider

Compare prices and services from different providers

Once you have define your budget and prioritiesit's time to choose the service providers who will support you in yourorganizing your wedding.

 

This is an important step, because the service providers you choose will contribute to the success of your day.

chateau de miremont - the bride in a dress

Search tips

To help you choose the right service providers, here are a few tips:

  1. Compare prices and services from different providers.
  2. Don't hesitate to ask for a quote.
  3. Read customer reviews.
  4. Meet providers in person.
  5. Trust your instincts.


There are plenty of inexpensive wedding photographers and DJs to liven up the evening.

To find them, type " wedding photographer Lyon"or "cheap wedding photographer Toulouse"for example.

That said, it's important to bear in mind that the quality will be commensurate with the price.

If wedding photography is important to you, then avoid cheap wedding photographers.

The feeling with the service provider is important

By comparing the prices and services of different providers, you'll be able to find the ones that best suit your needs and budget.

Don't hesitate to ask for quotes and read customer reviews to get an idea of the quality of the services on offer.

It's also important to meet service providers in person to get a good feel for them and make sure you're on the same wavelength.

Failing that, arrange a meeting by videoconference.

Finally, trust your instincts!

 

Cheap wedding receptions in Lyon, Paris, Toulouse, Bordeaux and Clermont-Ferrand

Of course, you can celebrate your wedding at home, or at the home of friends who have a suitable venue.

In addition to village halls, you can also find affordable reception venues.

Although they do cost a certain amount, it's still reasonable compared to high-end venues. High-end wedding venues can easily cost more than €10,000 per weekend.

 

Lyon: cheap wedding reception venues near Lyon

1. Domaine de la Barge

  • Located 30 minutes from Lyon, in a green, rural setting.
  • Large reception room for up to 150 people.
  • Terrace with panoramic view of the vineyards.
  • Traditional, refined cuisine.
  • Price: from €1,500

 

2. Château de la Bastie d'Urfé

  • Located 45 minutes from Lyon, in a Renaissance château.
  • 12 hectares of wooded grounds.
  • Reception room for up to 100 people.
  • Tailor-made services.
  • Price: from €2,000
Château de la Bastie d'Urfé

Paris: cheap wedding reception venues near Paris

1. Le Moulin de la Galette

  • Located in Montmartre, in a picturesque setting.
  • Reception room for up to 80 people.
  • Terrace overlooking Paris.
  • Traditional French cuisine.
  • Price: from €1,000

 

2. La Grange de la Cerisaie

  • Situated 30 minutes from Paris, in a rural setting.
  • Large function room for up to 200 people.
  • Garden with swimming pool.
  • Tailor-made services.
  • Price: from €2,500
Paris - la grange la cerisiae wedding reception hall
La Grange de la Cerisaie

Toulouse: inexpensive reception venues

1. Domaine de l'Escarelle

  • Located 20 minutes from Toulouse, in a green setting.
  • Reception room for up to 150 people.
  • Terrace overlooking the Pyrenees.
  • Gourmet cuisine.
  • Price: from €2,000

 

2. Château de Laréole

  • Located 45 minutes from Toulouse, in an 18th-century château.
  • Wooded park of 5 hectares.
  • Reception room for up to 200 people.
  • Top-of-the-range services.
  • Price: from €3,000

Bordeaux: Cheap places near Bordeaux

1. Château Pape Clément

  • Located in Pessac-Léognan, on a vineyard estate.
  • Reception room for up to 100 people.
  • Terrace overlooking vineyards.
  • Gourmet cuisine.
  • Price: from €3,000

 

2. La Chartreuse de Champigny

  • Located 30 minutes from Bordeaux, in a historic setting.
  • Reception room for up to 200 people.
  • 12-hectare park.
  • Tailor-made services.
  • Price: from €2,500

 

Note that these are just a few examples, and that there are many other inexpensive wedding reception venues close to these cities.

Clermont-Ferrand: cheap reception halls nearby in Auvergne

1. Royat village hall

  • Located in Royat, a spa town 10 minutes from Clermont-Ferrand, this function room offers an economical solution for small weddings.
  • The room can accommodate up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen.
  • This is an ideal option for couples who wish to organize their own catering or use an independent caterer.
  • Price: from €500

2. Auberge de la Vallée Verte

  • Located 30 minutes from Clermont-Ferrand andAubièreThis traditional inn offers a warm and friendly setting for your wedding.
  • The reception room can accommodate up to 80 people and features a fireplace and terrace with views over the countryside.
  • The Auberge de la Vallée Verte offers regional and seasonal cuisine at reasonable prices.
  • Price: from €1,000
Cheap wedding - auberge de la vallée verte Clermont Ferrand Photographer
Auberge de la Vallée Verte

Puy-de-Dôme 63

Wedding photographer Issoire Le Domaine de Montrodeix

  • Located just 15 minutes from Clermont-Ferrand, this estate offers a reception room for up to 200 people, as well as a large garden and terrace for enjoying the outdoors.
  • Domaine de Montrodeix also offers all-inclusive wedding packages at attractive prices.
  • Price: from €1,500

4. Château de la Grange Fort near Issoire Puy de Dôme 63

  • Located in Issoire 20 minutes south of Clermont-Ferrand, this historic 15th-century château offers a romantic and elegant setting for your wedding.
  • The reception room can accommodate up to 150 guests and features a terrace overlooking the gardens.
    Château de la Grange also offers tailor-made wedding packages.
  • Price: from €2,000

Think about finding a place to sleep, and get your guests involved if they want to sleep there. And choose a date during the week, or even out of season.

chateau de la grange fort Issoire puy de dome 63 - wedding reception venue
Château de la Grange Fort Issoire (63)

Cheap weddings: get accurate quotes

Price criteria

Once you have selected a few potential service providers, it is important toget precise quotes so you can compare their offers and choose the one that best suits your budget.

If you work in Paris and are looking for a cheap wedding photographer in Lyon or in the DrômeFor example, don't hesitate to chat in Visio. It's especially reassuring when you're planning your wedding from a distance.

Here are a few tips for getting accurate quotes:

  • Be clear and precise in your requests.
  • Provide suppliers with as much information as possible about your wedding, including the date, venue, number of guests, your specific needs, and so on.
  • Ask suppliers to provide you with a written quotation detailing all services included, the total price and payment terms.

Don't hesitate to ask questions if you don't understand something.

By following these tips, you'll be sure to get accurate quotes that will enable you to make an informed choice.

Sample questions

Here are some examples of questions to ask service providers to obtain an accurate quote:

  • What services are included in the price?
  • Are there any additional costs ?
  • What are the terms of payment?
  • Do you have any references?
  • Are you available on my wedding date?

 

By asking these questions, you'll get all the information you need to choose the right provider for your wedding.

Demand a deadline for delivery of HD digital photos.

Ask what happens if the service provider cheap wedding is sick on wedding day.

If you hire a cheap wedding photographer at least make sure it's a professional insurance and be able to suggest a colleague.

 

Finding low-cost alternatives for a cheap wedding

DIY (Do It Yourself): Make your own wedding elements

For a wedding that's both unique and economical, DIY is an ideal solution.

Many decorative elements and accessories can be made yourself, with a little creativity and patience.

 

Advice

Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Invitations: Create your own invitations using colored paper, ribbons, stamps or photos.

Floral decoration: compose your bouquets and centerpieces with seasonal flowers bought in bulk or picked from your garden.

Table names: Use misappropriated objects such as wine bottles, jam jars or photo frames to create original table names.

Place cards: Make place cards in paper, wood or felt with your guests' names.

Photobooth: Create an original setting with party accessories and balloons for a fun and festive photobooth.

Guest gifts: Treat your guests to homemade gifts such as jams, cookies or soaps.

 

Visit DIY lets you personalize your wedding and give it a unique touch.

It's also an excellent way to save money and get fully involved in preparing your big day.

Don't hesitate to call on friends and family to help you with your projects.

DIY is a convivial and enriching experience that will create unforgettable memories.

 
bohemian wedding Clermont-ferrand bridal bouquet flowers

Recovery and recycling: giving objects a second life

The photo shoot is the moment when the photographer will capture the images of your baby.

Here are a few tips to ensure that your photo shoot goes as smoothly as possible.

Recycling ideas

Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

  • Furniture Use wooden pallets to create tables, benches or bars.
  • Bottles and jars Decorate glass bottles and use them as vases or candleholders.
  • Textiles Recycle old fabrics to create tablecloths, napkins or table runners.
  • Paper Use cardboard and newspaper to create decorations, garlands or giant letters.
  • Antiques : Give a second life to objects found at flea markets.

 

Recovery and recycling help limit the environmental impact of your wedding and save money.

It's also a great way to show off your creativity and originality.

Don't hesitate to call on your friends and family to help you collect and transform objects.

 

Recovering and recycling is a rewarding experience that will create a cheap, unique and responsible wedding.

Tips for finding items to salvage:

  1. Call on your friends and family.
  2. Visit flea markets and brocantes.
  3. Search for recovery groups on social networks.
  4. Take a look at leboncoin.fr

 

By following these tips, you'll find plenty of objects to salvage to decorate your wedding in an original and eco-responsible way.

Choosing local artisans for an inexpensive wedding in Lyon and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region

Avoid travel costs

Celebrate your love in an idyllic, authentic setting in the Rhône-Alpes region, with the help of talented, passionate local artisans.

I suggest the Lyon because that's my area. But this applies to all regions of France, to ToulouseBordeaux, Saint-Etienne, Montluçon, Vichy, BourgesDijon, Clermont-Ferrandetc.

By choosing suppliers from your region, you contribute to the local economy and job creation, while benefiting from unique know-how for an authentic and refined wedding, without breaking the bank. And above all, you'll avoid travel expenses..

Here are a few ideas for building a network of local artisans for your wedding in Lyon and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region:

  • Cheap reception venue : Offer your guests an idyllic and authentic setting by choosing a village hall, a picturesque winegrowing estate, a charming gîte or a barge on the Rhône.
  • Catering Treat your taste buds to local, seasonal flavors from an artisan caterer, butcher, home chef or food truck.
  • The inexpensive wedding photographer Immortalize the most precious moments of your day with a talented novice photographer who will capture the essence of your wedding.

Or else, opt for an off-season or weekday wedding and benefit from the know-how and artistic touch of a renowned photographer, who will probably offer you lower rates.

  • DJ Create a festive and unforgettable atmosphere by choosing a local DJ who will adapt to your musical tastes and those of your guests.
  • Florist A new concept in floral design: enhance your floral decor with the creations of an artisan florist who knows how to emphasize your desires and the theme of your wedding.
  • Hair and make-up entrust your beauty to local professionals who know how to make the most of your big day.

Favour home-made and second-hand products

Exploit synergies between service providers for a better optimized budget :

Look for wedding packages: Some suppliers offer all-inclusive packages including venue rental, catering, decoration and other services.

DIY Bring a personal touch to your wedding by designing your own wedding decorations, such as invitations, place cards, centerpieces and candle holders.

Recovery Give a second life to vintage objects to create a unique, eco-responsible decor.

Ideas for an original and inexpensive wedding in Lyon and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes :

  • Organize a country picnic : Enjoy the region's sublime landscapes for a bohemian country wedding.

 

  • Getting married in an unusual venue An old factory, a library, a museum or a rooftop can provide a unique and original setting for your wedding.

 

  • Choose a home-made country-style buffet : Opt for local, seasonal produce for a convivial, tasty meal.

 

  • Organize games and entertainment: A photobooth, a musical quiz or outdoor games will entertain your guests and create a festive atmosphere.

 

  • DIY announcement cards Personalize your invitations with photos, drawings or collages for a unique invitation that reflects your image.
Wedding photographer Clermont-Ferrand Lyon: cheap couple photo session

Inexpensive wedding photography: our tips

Choose an off-season wedding

The photo budget is often one of the most important when organizing a wedding.

If you want to save money, a simple tip is to opt for an off-season wedding.

Wedding photographers are generally less in demand outside the high season (May to September).

This means they are more inclined to offer significant discounts on their prices.

Be flexible about the wedding date

For example, you can get a discount of 20 to 40% on the price of a winter wedding.

What's more, off-season weddings often have a special charm.

The light is softer, the scenery is different and you'll have more choice for your reception venue.

If you're flexible about your wedding date, don't hesitate to consider an off-season or weekday wedding.

It's a great way to save money and get original, artistic wedding photos.

 

Advice

Tips for finding a cheap wedding photographer in LyonClermont-Ferrand or elsewhere :

  1. Search for photographers who are starting out or specializing in the off-season weddings.
  2. Compare prices and the services of several photographers.
  3. Ask your friends and your family if they know of any recommendable wedding photographers.

By following these tips, you'll find an inexpensive wedding photographer in Lyon, Clermont-Ferrand, Montluçon that will capture the most beautiful moments of your day.

If you're looking for a wedding photographer Lyon cheapwedding photographer in Clermont-FerrandIf you're looking for a new home, I've got the right price for you.

Do not hesitate to contact me if you are getting married out of season or during the week in the region of Lyon, ToulouseDijon or Clermont-Ferrand.

 
wedding photographer lyon rhône alpes - professional high quality - wedding castle candles bride dress illuminated on the steps

Reduce service time

In addition to off-season weddingsanother way to save money on your heating system. photo budget is to reduce duration of photographer's services.

Wedding photographers generally charge by the hour.

If you don't need a photographer for the whole day, you can negotiate a shorter service.

 

How to reduce service time

Here are some tips on how to reduce the photographer's turnaround time:

  1. Define your priorities.
  2. What is most important to you in terms of wedding photos? Photos of the couple? Family photos? Ceremony photos?
  3. Make a list of the photos you absolutely must have. This will help you determine how much time the photographer will need to take them.
  4. Plan your wedding day. This will enable the photographer to manage his or her time better, and avoid wasting time between shots.
  5. Don't hesitate to ask the photographer for a personalized quote.

By following these tips, you'll be able to reduce the photographer's turnaround time and save money on your wedding budget.

 

Here are a few examples of questions to ask the photographer to determine the length of service required:

How much time do you need to take photos of the couple? the family? the preparations?

By answering these questions, the photographer will be able to offer you a service tailored to your needs and budget.

Feel free to discuss your needs and expectations with the photographer.

It's important to find a photographer with whom you have a good feeling and who will be able to capture the most beautiful moments of your wedding day.

 

Cheap wedding photography: time to compromise

Choices to make

Save money on wedding photography budget doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing photo quality.

It's possible to find a cheap, talented and affordable wedding photographer who will capture the most beautiful moments of your day.

However, it's important to make a few compromises.

Here are some examples of compromises you can make:

  1. Choose a photographer who is just starting out or who is in the process of setting up.
  2. Choose an off-season or weekday wedding.
  3. Reduce the photographer's turnaround time.
  4. Choose a digital download format for photos.
  5. Create your own photo albums, and why not do it a year later? For a wedding anniversary, for example. That way, you can spread the cost.

 

By making a few compromises, you can find an inexpensive wedding photographer who will meet your needs and budget.

The important thing is not to neglect photo quality.

After all, wedding photos are the memories you'll keep of your most important day.

 

Advice

Here are some tips on how to find an inexpensive, quality wedding photographer:

  • Search for photographers on the Internet and compare their prices and services.
  • Ask friends and family for recommendations.
  • Read customer reviews on photographers' websites.
  • Meet several photographers before making your choice.

 

By following these tips, you'll be able to find an inexpensive, quality wedding photographer who will capture the most beautiful moments of your day.

Don't hesitate to call on a wedding photojournalist for original, artistic photos.

Photojournalism is a style of photography that involves capturing events naturally and spontaneously.

It's an excellent choice for couples looking for original wedding photos that stand out from the crowd.

Finally, don't forget that the most important thing is to find a photographer with whom you have a good feeling.

 

Conclusion

Cheap and chic weddings: what you need to know

By following the tips shared in this article, you now have all the keys to organizing an elegant and economical wedding.

Remember, the most important thing is to create a wedding that reflects your tastes and personalities.

Don't hesitate to put your creativity to work and create unique, personalized DIY decorations.

Indeed, saving money doesn't mean giving up on the quality of your wedding. All you need to do is make well-considered choices and opt for original, affordable solutions.

Dare to think outside the box, and don't be afraid to shake up traditional codes. Your wedding will be all the more unique and memorable for it.

Finally, don't forget to enjoy every moment of this special day. Let yourself be carried away by the emotion, and surround yourself with your loved ones to celebrate your love with joy and good humor.

Bonus tip for a photo budget to your needs, remember to choose a off-season weddings or to reduce the duration of the photographer's services. A few hours' photo coverage is often enough to capture the most beautiful moments of your day. And prefer regions away from the big cities, such as the Auvergne region of France. Vichyor from Bourges or the Dordogne, for example.

So don't wait any longer and get started on preparing your cheap and chic wedding !

wedding photographer vichy

Book your Clermont-Ferrand birth photographer

Do you dream of a unique, elegant wedding without breaking the bank?
So look no further! Contact me today for a free consultation by videoconference.

As an award-winning and experienced wedding photographer based in Lyon and Clermont-Ferrand, I specialize in photojournalism and offer artistic and original photos that capture the essence of your day.

I've had the privilege of photographing weddings on three continents, in the United States, Europe and China, and I'm always on the lookout for new love stories to capture.

During our meeting, we'll discuss your tastes and desires for your wedding, and I'll offer you a personalized quote that fits your budget.

Feel free to browse my website to discover my portfolio and find out more about my approach to wedding photojournalism.

Book your Visio consultation today and let me capture the most beautiful moments of your wedding!

 

#mariagepascher #mariagechic #photojournalisme #photosartistiques #originales #lyon #clermontferrand #toulouse #dijon

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Muratet Photography

Photographer based in Issoire and Clermont-Ferrand

Puy de Dôme, France

matthieu@muratet.eu

Emilie & Jérôme

We wanted to sincerely thank you, beyond your magnificent, passionate and extremely professional artistic work, we, the bride and groom, as well as all the guests and suppliers, appreciated your kindness.

You were very accessible and approachable, understanding and pleasant. Throughout, you guided us, relaxed us and adapted to us all, with a lot of patience and kindness, always with a smile, understanding and complicity.

Today, surrounded by our parents, we discovered the first photos with great emotion, and we are extremely touched by your blog entry, which is a beautiful memory for us, a wonderful gift that you are giving us.

We never doubted your professional qualities and the result, which was bound to please us, but the result goes beyond our expectations, and for us, we were very lucky to have you to mark these unique moments forever... so simply and with great emotion.

Thank you.