12 Genius Ways to Save Money on Your Vow Renewal

Planning your vow renewal doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning, creative thinking, and a few strategic choices, you can host a meaningful and beautiful celebration while staying well within your budget. Here are 12 effective and creative ways to save money on your vow renewal while ensuring it’s a day to cherish forever.

1. Prioritize What Matters Most to You

Start by deciding which aspects of the vow renewal are most important. Is it having great food, memorable entertainment, or stunning photography? Allocate more of your budget to the things you care about the most and be willing to cut back in other areas.

• Actionable Tip: Create a list of everything you’ll need for your vow renewal and rank them in order of importance. Then focus on maximizing the budget for your top three priorities, cutting back on the less important details.
• Bonus Tip: If you want to save in multiple areas, consider using the 50-30-20 rule—spend 50% on must-haves (e.g., venue, food), 30% on should-haves (e.g., decorations, flowers), and 20% on nice-to-haves (e.g., extra entertainment).

2. Harness the Talents of Family and Friends

Family and friends can be an incredible resource when planning a vow renewal. You likely have people in your life with talents that can help you save. Not only does this lower your costs, but it also adds a more personal touch to your event.

• Ideas to Explore:
  • Invitation Design: Know someone with graphic design skills? Ask them to create your invitations, save-the-dates, or vow renewal programs.
  • Photography: Instead of hiring a professional photographer, ask a talented friend or budding photographer to capture the day.
  • Music: Have a family member in a band or someone who DJs as a hobby? They could provide entertainment at a fraction of the cost of a professional DJ.
• Pro Tip: Offer services in return. For example, you could offer to help them with a future event or project in exchange for their contributions.

3. Choose a Budget-Friendly Theme

Selecting a theme can help focus your choices and keep costs down by limiting décor, food, and drink to match your concept. Some themes naturally lend themselves to more affordable options:

• Theme Ideas:
  • Backyard BBQ: Casual food like grilled meats, potato salad, and baked beans are much cheaper than a catered meal.
  • Brunch Affair: Host a morning or afternoon vow renewal with affordable brunch foods like pastries, quiche, and mimosas.
  • Vintage-Inspired: Thrift shops and flea markets offer affordable vintage décor, adding a unique charm without the high cost.
• Creative Drink Pairings: Limit your drink menu to two themed signature cocktails or wine and beer that match your event theme.

4. Plan Your Vow Renewal During the Off-Season

Wedding and event costs skyrocket during peak seasons. Choosing to host your vow renewal during the off-season, such as January through March or late fall, can help you secure venues, catering, and services at discounted rates.

• Extra Tip: Consider hosting your vow renewal on a weekday or Sunday afternoon to save even more on venue rental fees. Vendors are often more flexible and willing to negotiate prices outside of peak weekends.

5. Opt for a Morning or Afternoon Ceremony

Hosting your vow renewal earlier in the day can help you save big on food and venue costs. Morning brunches and afternoon luncheons are not only more affordable but also lend a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere to your event.

• Cost-Saving Ideas:
  • Brunch Buffet: Serve a variety of breakfast and lunch foods like scrambled eggs, pastries, fruit platters, and pancakes, which are often cheaper than dinner menus.
  • Daytime Drink Options: Offer mimosas, coffee, and non-alcoholic drinks instead of a full bar. Not only is this more budget-friendly, but it also suits the time of day.

6. Find a Free or Low-Cost Venue

Venue costs can eat up a large portion of your budget, but there are plenty of affordable or free options if you’re flexible with location. Think outside the box to find a beautiful space that won’t break the bank.

• Ideas:
  • Local Parks and Gardens: Many city parks, beaches, and gardens have reasonable rental fees, or may even be free with a permit.
  • Backyards or Barns: Hosting at your home or a friend’s property is a great way to save on venue costs. Barns or farmhouses also offer a rustic charm perfect for vow renewals.
  • Libraries, Community Centers, or Historic Sites: Some community buildings, libraries, or historic homes offer inexpensive event spaces with unique architecture and ambiance.

7. Find a Non-Bridal Gown

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a traditional wedding gown for your vow renewal. Many brides opt for simpler, more budget-friendly dresses that still look stunning.

• Where to Shop:
  • Look for white evening dresses in the formalwear section of department stores.
  • Browse the bridesmaid or mother-of-the-bride section for elegant dresses that are much less expensive than bridal gowns.
  • Thrift shops or consignment stores often carry gorgeous gowns at a fraction of the cost.

8. Select In-Season, Local Flowers

Flowers can become one of the more expensive aspects of your vow renewal if you’re not careful. To save money, choose blooms that are in-season and grown locally. They will be fresher, more affordable, and still add beauty to your event.

• Cost-Saving Ideas:
  • Stick to seasonal greenery and lush plants to add volume without spending on pricey florals.
  • Use potted plants or succulents as part of your décor—these can double as guest favors!

9. Get Creative with Your Cake (or Dessert!)

A lavish wedding cake isn’t a must for a vow renewal. You can still impress guests with more affordable dessert options:

• Creative Cake Ideas:
  • Serve a smaller cutting cake for photos and use sheet cakes for guest servings.
  • Choose a naked cake, which uses minimal frosting and looks stylishly rustic.
  • Set up a dessert bar featuring cupcakes, cookies, and pies for a more casual approach.
• DIY Tip: Consider purchasing a basic cake from a grocery store or bakery and decorating it yourself with fresh flowers, greenery, or a custom topper.

10. Limit the Guest List

One of the most effective ways to keep costs down is by having a smaller guest list. Fewer guests mean less spending on food, drinks, seating, and favors.

• Guest List Strategy:
  • Focus on inviting those closest to you. If you haven’t spent time with someone in the last five years, you don’t need to invite them.
  • Consider a child-free vow renewal or inviting guests without a plus-one unless they’re in a serious relationship.

11. Use DIY or Rental Décor

Décor is an easy place to save money by getting creative. Instead of purchasing all new items, consider DIY projects, rental décor, or upcycling existing pieces.

• DIY Ideas:
  • Use candles, lanterns, or fairy lights to create romantic lighting without the high cost of florals.
  • Decorate tables with simple mason jars, vintage vases, or thrifted items for a rustic feel.
• Rental Tip: Instead of buying new décor, look into renting items such as tableware, linens, and even furniture to cut costs while still achieving your desired look.

12. Consider E-Invites Instead of Paper

Cut printing and mailing costs by sending out digital invitations. E-invites are not only budget-friendly, but also eco-friendly, and they allow for easy RSVP tracking.

• Pro Tip: Use platforms like Evite or Paperless Post to send beautiful, customized digital invitations that still feel personal and thoughtful.

Final Thoughts on Saving Money for Your Vow Renewal

Saving money on your vow renewal doesn’t mean compromising on quality or style. By being strategic with your choices, using your network, and staying flexible, you can host a beautiful, memorable event while sticking to your budget. Get organized early, focus on what matters most, and remember that the true heart of your vow renewal is the celebration of your enduring love.