This blog post may contain references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers or partners. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products or services.
Whether you’re saving for a single-family home or you’re an avid budgeter by habit, planning an unforgettable wedding anniversary celebration doesn’t have to do harm to your wallet. All couples can enjoy an incredible anniversary day for a low cost or even free if they get creative.
How to Have an Incredible Wedding Anniversary on a Budget
So what could you do to create a truly amazing event while keeping costs as low as possible?
Here are 10 tips to help you plan a memorable wedding anniversary that won’t break the bank.
1. Invite Closest Friends & Family
Instead of making a huge guest list, invite only your closest friends and family—the ones that will truly appreciate the event. This will help you keep costs down and create a more intimate atmosphere. To avoid hurt feelings, explain to those not invited you wanted a small gathering.
2. Have a Potluck
Have your friends pitch in by bringing dishes for a potluck dinner. All you have to do is provide the main dish and assign each guest to bring a different side dish. Potlucks are a great way to ensure all of your guests are fed while reducing the financial strain on the guests of honor.
On the other hand, you could ask your guests to chip in on a pizza or other party food if no one wants to cook. If you’re ordering in, check for any allergies or diet preferences before you do.
3. Choose a Meaningful Theme
Choose a theme for the night that’s meaningful to you as a couple. This can be a fun way to honor your relationship, but it can also lead to some unique decorations and activities for guests. Consider using the traditional anniversary gift list to create a fun, romantic theme.
4. Show Off Photos
Set up a projector with a slideshow that includes photos of both of your lives together. And if you want to get a little bit cheeky, create a trivia game with photos from your wedding day and more.
If you want to take photos at the event you can show off later, use an app designed for sharing photos, like wedding photos. Apps like Memento allow you to make videos and photo albums you can give to friends and family. They’re also more private than Facebook Group albums.
5. Utilize Natural Focal Points
For your venue, consider choosing one with an enviable view or picturesque background that doesn’t need further decorations. If a venue is out of budget, have your party outside or contained in the most stylish room in your house. Or, have the party at a friend’s house.
6. Have a DIY Decorations
Create DIY decorations for a personal touch. You don’t have to spend much money on decorations—craft stores sell inexpensive items that you can use to make your own for cheap. Balloons, bunting flags, and table runners are basic and effective decor for your anniversary.
On the other hand, you could decorate your party with natural elements, like plants, or use craft materials you already own. Consider making fewer decorations to keep your costs low.
7. Jazz Up Your Drinks
Offer creative drinks like sangrias, punches, or spritzers with festive garnishes. If you’re a fan of flowers, freeze petals in water and use them as ice cubes. Ask one of your friends or family members to be a bartender, as this saves money and lets you spend time with your guests.
8. Save on Entertainment
Choose something fun to keep your guests entertained without needing to hire entertainment or hiring out DJs or bands. Consider playing charades, trivia, or word games. If you have a large group, you can have a separate game room or set time aside for a main event, like Bingo.
When in doubt, put on some dance music and open up the floor. You don’t need a fancy band to liven up the party. Your guests are more than happy to spend the day with you regardless.
9. Reuse What You Can
Every few years, consider creating a wedding re-do as a way to reuse your old decorations, outfits, and invitation, and maybe even invest in a few new ones. This is a great way to save up on costs while conveying how much your relationship has evolved throughout the years.
10. Have a Private Celebration
There’s no reason you have to spend your wedding anniversary with your family and friends. Some people are more private about their relationships, or maybe they just want to spend one specific anniversary alone. You don’t have to justify why you don’t want to have a big party.
Keep the day intimate by staying inside for the day. Order takeout or cook dinner together. Have a few drinks and bask in each other’s company while reflecting on the life you spent together.
By following these tips, you can plan a remarkable wedding anniversary celebration on a modest budget. Don’t forget to have fun and spend enough time with your loved ones.
Become an Insider
Editorial Disclaimer: The editorial content on this page is not provided by any of the companies mentioned and has not been endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are author's alone
The content of this website is for informational purposes only and does not represent investment advice, or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security, investment, or product. Investors are encouraged to do their own due diligence, and, if necessary, consult professional advising before making any investment decisions. Investing involves a high degree of risk, and financial losses may occur.
