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Planning a wedding in Singapore is exciting but can be quite overwhelming given the range of prices and options for every detail. From florals to the venue, every element seems to have multiple price points—so where should you splurge and where should you save?

To help Singaporean couples make informed wedding choices, we explored insights shared on the r/askSingapore subreddit, a vibrant community where over 200,000 members discuss all things Singapore. In a popular thread on wedding planning, married locals offered practical advice based on their own experiences.

Here’s a rundown of what’s worth investing in and what’s okay to skip, according to couples who’ve already walked down the aisle.

Where to Spend: Key Elements That Make a Difference

1. Photographer and Videographer

One of the biggest takeaways from the r/askSingapore conversation was the importance of good photography. As user Changosu notes, “It’s been over 10 years, and I still look at my wedding photos occasionally—they bring back so many good memories.”

Photography captures memories you’ll cherish forever, so it’s worth investing in a professional. Many users also advise prioritising photos over videography, unless you’re sure you’ll rewatch the video down the line.

2. Food Quality

Food can make or break a wedding experience.

“Think about all the weddings you’ve attended,” shared user Brikandbones, “You probably remember the ones with great food more than the others.”

While hotel venues offer grand dining experiences, many suggest considering restaurants as they’re often more affordable and serve food that guests genuinely enjoy.

3. Makeup and Hair

Your wedding day is one of the few occasions where professional makeup and hairstyling can make a world of difference. User admelioremvitam shared, “Even if you’re good at doing your own makeup, the nerves on the big day can make it challenging.”

Hiring a skilled makeup artist ensures a polished look, giving you one less thing to worry about.

Where to Save: Budget-Friendly Alternatives

1. Décor and Floral Arrangements

Several Singaporean Redditors suggest not overspending on décor, especially flowers.

User Brikandbones recommends relying on the basics provided by the venue or sourcing flowers from budget-friendly spots like Far East Flora for simple additions. Small vases and fairy lights can elevate the look without breaking the bank.

Many agree that bouquets are where you might want to spend slightly more since they feature prominently in photos, but car florals and table bouquets are optional extras.

2. Bridal Car and Transportation

Fancy car rentals can rack up costs quickly. Instead, many couples suggest borrowing a friend’s car and offering them a small token of appreciation.

As one user humorously noted, “The car’s really just for a couple of photos—skip the decor and save on the rental.” It’s an easy way to save without sacrificing the essentials.

3. Wedding Favours and Door Gifts

Although popular, door gifts are rarely remembered and often end up gathering dust.

“Don’t spend on door gifts; people usually just let them gather dust or toss them,” suggested bluebuns123. Instead, couples could consider personalising the guest experience with fun additions like a photo booth or candy station if they’re within budget.

A Balancing Act: Where to Personalise According to Your Budget

Venue Decorations

While some suggest skipping extra décor altogether, others propose doing it yourself. Simple DIY arrangements with items from Taobao or Shopee are affordable, and assembling them with friends and family can add a personal touch to your big day.

Entertainment

Some users recommend skipping live bands if you’re on a tight budget, with several noting that a well-curated Spotify playlist can achieve a similar atmosphere.

If live music is essential to your wedding vision, consider hiring a solo musician instead of a full band. Many of Singapore’s top live bands offer reduced-size options or solo performances, giving you the ambience you want while keeping costs manageable. Talented solo singers can even double up as emcees, allowing you to save more by choosing the right package.

Final Tip: Keep Your Guest List Tight

Ultimately, a smaller, more intimate wedding can help with budget constraints, allowing you to invest in the things that really matter. Many Redditors agree that trimming the guest list to include only close family and friends creates a more meaningful and memorable experience.

Conclusion: Prioritise What Matters Most

Planning a Singapore wedding involves balancing between making lasting memories and keeping within your means. By focusing on essentials like photography, food, and a few key personal touches, you’ll not only create an unforgettable day but also ensure you’re investing in areas that genuinely matter.

This article draws insights from r/askSingapore discussions, where locals shared their tips on managing wedding budgets. For more experiences and advice from Singaporeans, you can explore the full discussion on Reddit.

Now that you have a good understanding of the dos and don’ts for spending on your wedding day, it’s time to choose trusted and recommended vendors. We’ve curated a list of top wedding photographers, venues, live bands, bridal studios, and more. Many of these vendors offer bundled packages that can help you stay within your budget. Visit our website to explore options that suit your needs!