Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in life, but it’s also one of the most expensive. In 2025, the average wedding in the United States costs between $28,000 and $36,000, depending on location, guest count, and services included. For couples in the Kansas City area, costs tend to land slightly below the national average, but still represent a major investment.
The good news is that with a little creativity and flexibility, you can plan a wedding that feels elegant, meaningful, and affordable.
1. Consider a Weekday Wedding
One of the simplest ways to save money is to move your wedding off the weekend. Saturdays remain the most popular day to get married, meaning venues, photographers, and florists often charge their highest rates. By shifting your celebration to a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, you can enjoy significant discounts and far greater vendor availability.
A weekday wedding can still be just as romantic and fun—and you may be surprised at how many friends and family members appreciate the unique timing.
2. Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Venue Options
If you’re searching for a beautiful, budget-friendly setting, look no further than The Brim in Kansas City, Missouri. Nestled in the rural landscape of Platte County, The Brim offers couples a peaceful country atmosphere without leaving the metro area. Its white, modern-style chapel sits among rolling fields, creating a tranquil and timeless backdrop for wedding photos.
What truly makes The Brim special is its mission of generosity. The venue offers its chapel to couples free of charge in two-hour blocks from Wednesday through Friday, allowing them to say “I do” without the burden of high rental fees.
Adding to its charm, each ceremony concludes with the ringing of a 150-year-old bell, a symbolic and heartfelt way to mark the start of a new marriage. Whether you’re eloping, renewing your vows, or planning a small weekday wedding, The Brim is a Kansas City treasure that proves beautiful doesn’t have to mean expensive.
3. Trim the Guest List
A smaller guest list can have one of the biggest impacts on your wedding budget. Every additional guest increases catering, rentals, and décor costs, so keeping things intimate often allows couples to reinvest savings into quality touches—like upgraded food, custom photography, or luxury transportation.
Invite only your closest friends and family, those who play an important role in your lives. Not only will this help you save, but it also makes your wedding more meaningful and less stressful to plan.
4. Reimagine the Reception
Receptions often account for a large portion of wedding spending, but with a bit of creativity, they don’t have to. Instead of a formal plated dinner, consider a cocktail-style reception featuring appetizers and desserts, or a restaurant reception with your favorite local cuisine.
For couples who want to celebrate with everyone but limit catering costs, another option is to host a small ceremony and dinner for family, followed by a relaxed party later with friends. You’ll still get the full celebration experience, but without the high price tag.
5. Be Flexible with Dates and Services
Flexibility goes a long way toward keeping your wedding affordable. Vendors like photographers, DJs, and limousine companies often offer discounted weekday or off-season pricing, especially for couples who book outside of peak months like May, June, or October.
Ask vendors directly about their midweek packages as many will gladly create a custom quote that aligns with your budget and needs.
6. Focus on What Matters Most
At the end of the day, your wedding isn’t about the price tag, it’s about the love you’re celebrating. Whether you’re exchanging vows as the historic bell rings at The Brim, hosting a cozy weekday gathering, or keeping your guest list simple, you’re crafting a day that reflects your values and your story.
With intention, creativity, and the right planning, you can have a stunning 2026 wedding that’s both beautiful and budget-conscious.
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