Planning a South Asian wedding is an elaborate, colorful, and emotional journey. From luxurious decor to extravagant celebrations, it’s easy to see why these weddings have earned the title of “big fat weddings.” However, creating a budget that works for both your dream day and your wallet is no small task. Whether you’re hosting a multi-day celebration or focusing on a single day of events, careful planning is essential to avoid financial stress.
At Laksa Events, we have decades of experience in helping couples balance tradition and modernity while keeping their wedding budget in check. In this blog, we’ll explore where to splurge for maximum impact and where to save without compromising on quality. Let’s dive into some strategies for creating a wedding budget that allows you to enjoy your big day without the worry of financial strain.
Where to Spend Money on Your Indian Wedding:
Venue and Catering
Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. Whether you opt for a palatial hotel, a picturesque outdoor garden, or a charming cultural center, the venue is one area worth splurging on.
Why? The venue not only provides the backdrop for your special day but also impacts the logistics of hosting a large number of guests. Choose a venue that can accommodate multiple events like the Mehndi, Sangeet, and wedding ceremony under one roof to simplify planning and reduce vendor travel costs.
Laksa Tip: A beautiful venue can transform your wedding, and investing in one that aligns with your vision is always a good idea.
When it comes to catering, Indian weddings are synonymous with mouth-watering dishes that guests will remember for years to come. Quality food is essential, especially when it comes to traditional dishes like biryani, paneer tikka, or gulab jamun. Opt for experienced caterers who specialize in South Asian cuisine to ensure your guests are treated to a memorable dining experience.
Contact us for an extensive list of preferred caterers and venues.
Photography and Videography
Your wedding memories will be cherished for a lifetime, so it’s wise to invest in photography and videography. Hiring a professional team with experience in capturing the grandeur and intricate details of South Asian weddings is worth the splurge. Ensure that your photographer and videographer can cover the multiple events that typically span several days.
Consider this an area where quality matters most. Laksa Events recommends booking experienced photographers who understand the importance of candid shots during rituals like the Sindoor ceremony, Mangalya Dharan or the fun-filled Baraat.
Bridal and Groom Attire
For many South Asian brides, wearing a stunning bridal lehenga or saree is a dream. This is where you can splurge on a custom outfit or a designer piece that makes you feel like royalty. Whether it’s a Sabyasachi creation or another high-end designer, your wedding attire is an integral part of the day and will be captured in your photographs for years to come.
The groom’s outfit is equally important. Opt for a tailored sherwani or a tuxedo that complements the bride’s attire and aligns with the wedding theme.
Entertainment
A South Asian wedding is incomplete without vibrant entertainment. Whether it’s a live DJ, a traditional Dhol player, or professional Bollywood dancers, this is an area where spending a bit more can elevate the guest experience. Your guests will remember the energy on the dance floor, so investing in high-quality entertainment is often a worthwhile splurge.
Wedding Planner
Hiring a professional wedding planner is one of the best investments you can make, especially for an Indian wedding, where multiple events and intricate traditions need to be seamlessly coordinated. A wedding planner not only takes the stress off your shoulders but also ensures that every detail, from rituals to décor, is executed perfectly.
With a wedding planner, you also get access to a network of reliable vendors, ensuring that everything from venue arrangements to floral décor aligns with your vision and budget. In short, investing in a professional planner saves you time, reduces stress, and ensures your dream wedding becomes a reality.
Where to Save Money on Your Indian Wedding:
Pre-Wedding Events
Pre-wedding functions like the Haldi and Puja are important, but they don’t have to be as elaborate as the main events. One way to save is to host these ceremonies at home or at a family member’s house. Doing this not only eliminates venue costs but also brings an intimate, personal feel to the rituals.
Laksa Tip: Hosting smaller events at home can save thousands of dollars, and often, the family feels more connected in these familiar settings.
Wedding Invitations and Stationery
Wedding invitations have become increasingly elaborate, but this is one area where you can cut costs without losing elegance. Opt for digital invitations or a wedding website instead of printing hundreds of customized cards. Many couples are now sending beautiful digital save-the-dates and invitations that include detailed information like schedules, maps, and RSVP links.
Flowers and Decor
Décor can easily take a large chunk of your budget, but there are ways to save without sacrificing beauty. Instead of going all out with expensive florals for every event, focus on centerpieces and one or two statement pieces, such as a beautifully decorated mandap or entrance. Use in-season flowers to keep costs down, or opt for artificial floral arrangements that can be reused across events.
Guest List
One of the simplest ways to save on your wedding is by trimming the guest list. While South Asian weddings are known for their large gatherings, consider cutting the guest list to only close family and friends. Not only does this save on catering costs, but it also creates a more intimate and personalized celebration.
Please read our Guide on Creating Your Guest List for more information.
How to Budget for Your Indian Wedding
Creating a wedding budget can be daunting, but it’s all about striking a balance between splurging where it matters and saving where you can. At Laksa Events, we understand that each couple’s vision is unique, and we work with you to create a budget that aligns with your priorities. Whether you’re splurging on the perfect venue or saving on pre-wedding events, our goal is to bring your dream wedding to life without breaking the bank.
Ready to start planning your perfect Indian wedding? Contact Laksa Events today for a consultation!
