Saying 'I do' to a low-cost but stylish wedding

For Ms Jessica Bishop, who formerly worked in marketing, starting BudgetSavvyBride.com in 2008 was personal. Newly engaged during the Great Recession, she had wondered: "How do I have this dream wedding on the budget that I can actually afford?"

In 2009, she managed to pull off a wedding for 150 guests at a venue in Smyrna, Tennessee, for about US$10,000 (S$13,500) thanks to several cost-cutting measures.

Since then, Ms Bishop, who is based in nearby Nashville, has devoted her career to helping couples on a budget, publishing a book, The Budget-Savvy Wedding Planner & Organiser, in 2018.

Ms Bishop says she has noticed a recent increase in social media posts promoting luxurious budget weddings. "These TikTokers sharing their expenses show you is possible," Ms Bishop said what One of those people posting on TikTok is Ms Dina Zappone, who owns The Cottage, a wedding venue in Gilbert, Arizona, outside Phoenix, with her husband, Sal.

On the social media platform, Ms Zappone regularly gives behindthe-scene tours of the venue's wedding packages, many of which are under US$5,000.

Tess and Robert Ansell, 23-year-olds from Buckeye, Arizona, wedded at the Zappones' venue in February, paying about US$4,900 for 30 guests, all-inclusive. "We had the food, the DJ, the venue, the day-of coordinator, all wrapped up into one package," said Ms Ansell, a substitute teacher.

The Cottage also supplied complimentary games, including Jenga and Connect Four, while the couple brought their own cornhole set inscribed with "Team Ansell", as well as board games. "We're big board game people," Ms Ansell said.

There are many ways for couples to show their personality, like the Ansells, and have an enjoyable, stylish wedding on a budget. Wedding industry professionals and couples share some suggestions.

CUT THE GUEST LIST

"Keeping that guest list intentionally tight is going to be your best chance at providing the nicest experience possible," Ms Bishop said.