Wedding on a budget....no photographer

Would you consider doing something small like a courthouse wedding and a nice dinner with close friends and family so that grandma could attend, and then renew your vows in a larger "wedding" later on when you could better afford it?

Not sure how your guest list is looking but I would suggest cutting your guest list down as low as possible. That’s where most of the money comes from because of food and drinks so I would start there 1st. Italian and BBQ are your cheapest food options. Have a modified open bar with beer and wine only instead of a full open bar. Then I would cut unnecessary things like favors and a photo booth(not sure if you’re doing any of these things)

View Quoted Comment I honestly preferred this but it was very important for my fiancé to have a wedding where all family attended and now we’ve already paid for the venue

Not sure where you are located but if you have Facebook join a local wedding swap and shop group and search through their recommendations for vendors you might find one in your budget!

I've seen on pinterest Photo Scavenger Hunt lists to put on the tables with cameras. You could use it as a reference and alter it to your needs. Also maybe ask a friend or family member to do it. I've done it for friends several times for free. Good luck!

Would you mind giving us a full budget breakdown?? 😁😁

I'm sorry to hear the news about grandma. I wish you guys all the luck.

I Think photographer or designated photographer is important, especially because your fh and family may want some pictures with their grandmother.

if you cant hire a professional maybe see if there are come schools around that can do for a cheaper price or a family member willing to take the role.

Can you have an afternoon wedding with cake and punch reception? That may free up enough money for a photographer.

A photography student from a local college? You may have to give permission to use the photos in their portfolio but they’ll at least have a good knowledge of how to use a camera.

Look around your local Facebook wedding groups for a low cost or newly starting photographer. This was you can still have pictures.

Have you considered keeping disposable cameras on the tables for guests to take pictures throughout the night. It's much more affordable than a photographer or maybe you can ask a friend or family member (or 2) to be your designated photographer , and take pictures with a digital camera throughout the day?

I agree with Lindsey. Does your area have any local facebook group? Maybe make a post on their looking for a college aged student looking to make some extra money, or someone who you would be able to barter services with or something. Like a new mom that needs a babysitter. You could watch her kids in exchange for her photographing your wedding. My hometown has a huge facebook group where this would work out pretty easily, if yours does too, it might be something worth looking into.

Also, REALLY EMPHASIZE your hashtag. Then whatever pictures are taken by friends and family will be all in one place

Groupon has deals on photographers or a college student. Try to look around because you'll want good pictures with your grandma to hold on to those memories forever. Cut back on other stuff. Cut out a cake, get a bbq caterer or something like that, only have beer and wine.

So sorry to hear about your FH's grandma. Best wishes to you all!

Find a local media arts school and ask for someone who is about to graduate, they can help!

I think you're really going to regret not having a pro photographer. If I were you, I would look at cutting costs elsewhere.

Check on Thumbtack I have found prices there to be generally lower. You can also say how long you want their services for, so that's another option. You can get a custom # of hours (2, 3 , whatever). Even just a few hours of photography is worth it to have something to look back on.

Could you find a new photographer, or a student, to do it for little to no money? If not, I'd encourage guests to share photos with you over text or Facebook so you get all of them. Then I'd just get an at home digital camera or the best phone and get a tripod (they have ones on Amazon for $10 or less) and do some self timer photos of family and friends. I'm sure a family member or guest will be fine with taking pictures during the ceremony or filming it on their phone!

If you know anyone who are good with taking photos I suggest you kindly ask. Maybe if you know anyone who has a nice phone camera, Or find a student who won’t charge a arm and leg. Try cutting cost somewhere (decor, guest) that way you can stretch your budget for a photographer.

I would definitely see if you can get someone as a photographer—I think you would regret not having good photos. My friend contacted a local paper’s photographer, or as others suggested, a photography student. I’d say at least try for the ceremony and family photos, and maybe a more limited reception time (like just entrance/first dance) if at all. Some photographers offer special ceremony only packages. And don’t be afraid to see if they’ll work with you for less. Is your wedding on a non-Saturday or off season? If so, you’ll have a greater chance of bargaining. My wedding is on a Thursday and small so our photographer gave us a discount. It was the difference between us hiring him (who we really wanted) and another one who was cheaper.