Planning a wedding comes with a lot of decisions.. some exciting, some overwhelming, and almost all of them tied to your budget. As a Wisconsin wedding photographer who’s been capturing love stories for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand what’s worth the investment… and what ends up forgotten by the end of the night (or worse, never even noticed!).
If you’re trying to prioritize where your money should go, I want to let you in on a few things I’ve learned from behind the lens. These tips are all about maximizing your budget and focusing on what will have the biggest impact, not just in person, but in your photos too.
Let’s dive in!
High Impact Wedding Planning: Where to Save and Where to Splurge | Wisconsin Wedding Photographer
1. Invest in Your Bridal Bouquet Over the Other Florals
I cannot say this enough: a gorgeous bridal bouquet goes a long way.. like, really long. It’s one of the most photographed details of your day. As your Milwaukee wedding photographer (or wherever your wedding takes place!), I use the bridal bouquet not just for portraits, but also for styling your invitation suite, adding pops of color to your reception details, and making every setting look lush and elevated.
So if you’ve been dreaming of a big, beautiful bouquet full of your favorite blooms.. go for it!! Bridesmaids’ bouquets? Those are photographed a lot less and can definitely be simplified if you need to cut costs somewhere.
2. Opt for Greenery Over Blooms in Decor
Flowers are stunning, but they can also be pricey. If you’re looking for ways to save without sacrificing style, greenery is your best friend. It’s elegant, timeless, and photographs beautifully. I always recommend splurging on real flowers for your bouquet and maybe a few key spots, then using greenery for everything else like arches, tables, signage, etc.
As a Lake Geneva wedding photographer, I’ve photographed weddings in some of the most beautiful outdoor settings, and greenery always brings in that fresh, romantic feel without blowing your floral budget.
3. Focus on One Impactful Installation
If you’re envisioning a beautifully detailed reception but the budget is saying “slow down,” here’s a tip: create one unforgettable focal point rather than trying to decorate everything.
Think about investing in a statement piece like a floral chandelier over the dance floor, a unique backdrop behind the head table, or an epic ceremony arch. Then keep the rest simple and cohesive. Trust me, that one jaw-dropping element will be what your guests (and your photos) remember most.
4. Let Your Decor Do Double Duty
I’m all about working smarter, not harder.. especially when it comes to decor. That stunning entryway installation? Let it double as a photo booth backdrop once the party kicks off. Those ceremony florals? Have your florist move them to the reception space for extra impact.
With a little planning, your favorite design elements can serve more than one purpose and save you a ton in the process. I’ve seen this done beautifully at weddings all across Wisconsin, and the result is always both elegant and budget-friendly.
5. Skip the Tiny Extras
Personalized cocktail napkins, monogrammed M&M’s, tiny customized favors… they may seem fun in theory, but in reality? They often go unnoticed. Guests are far more likely to remember how they felt at your wedding, not what font was printed on their snack bag.
Save your energy (and budget) for the things that really matter to you and to your story. Focus on the big-picture moments, the people you love, and the details that make your day feel like you.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your wedding should feel like a reflection of your love, not just a Pinterest-perfect checklist. And when it comes to photography, the more thoughtful your planning, the more we can capture all the magic you’ve created.
As a Wisconsin wedding photographer who regularly photographs weddings across Milwaukee, Lake Geneva, and beyond, I know how important it is that your day feels effortless, joyful, and meaningful.. not just in the moment, but in the way you remember it forever.
If you’re still looking for a photographer who will not only document your day beautifully, but also guide you through moments like this one—budget planning, timelines, locations, and more—I’d love to chat!
✨ You can reach out here to inquire about your date and learn more about working together.
Because your wedding deserves to be captured in a way that’s just as thoughtful as the day itself!
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