How to Plan a $5,000 Wedding (Yes, It's Possible!)

We asked three planners to work with a big-day budget of $5,000. Here’s how they toed the bottom line.

Party Option #1: Garden Brunch
 

almond dessert
Photo Credit: Sarah Kathleen

Planner: Lisa Gorjestani, Los Angeles (detailseventplanning.com)

Guests: 100 or fewer

"A brunch on a Sunday can keep your venue fee low. Another great thing is that you don’t have to offer a lot of alcohol," Lisa says.

Menu: Stick to white wine or prosecco (a sparkling wine that comes at a fraction of the price as champagne), sparkling water with slices of lemon or lime and juices. Consider a coffee or tea bar. Serve a selection of frittatas, salads and a variety of breads and pastries.

Cake: Go for mini fruit tarts or cupcakes stacked on tiers.

Décor: White linen table covers and butter-colored napkins with white grosgrain ties have a fresh, coordinated look. Have printed menu cards in a brighter yellow at each setting.

Flowers: Each round table should have a small galvanized-metal pot of pretty white daisies. With a garden backdrop, you don’t need pricey arrangements.

Favors: Delicious chocolates, in paper boxes tied with yellow grosgrain ribbon or yellow and white gingham.

Next: Afternoon Picnic ►

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