The Simple Wedding Guide
If you’re dreaming of a simple, meaningful wedding, but every vendor inquiry turns into a long list of add-ons you didn’t ask for — you’re not alone.
Many couples start wedding planning with a clear vision:
“We just want something beautiful, intentional, and not over-the-top.”
Then suddenly:
Packages feel bloated
Prices jump once you ask one question
“Standard” options don’t exist anymore
Let’s talk about how to create a simple wedding on purpose — and how to stay grounded when vendors are trained to upsell.
First: What a “Simple Wedding” Really Means
A simple wedding doesn’t mean boring, cheap, or lacking personality.
It means:
Fewer decisions, made intentionally
Spending money where it truly matters to you
Letting go of extras that don’t add meaning
Designing a day that feels calm, not chaotic
Simple weddings are often the ones guests remember most — because they feel authentic.
Why Vendors Upsell (And Why It’s Not Personal)
Understanding why this happens can take a lot of stress off your shoulders.
Most vendors:
Are trained to offer upgrades as part of their sales process
Have shifted away from “basic” packages due to rising costs
Assume couples want the most popular or premium option
This doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong — it just means you need a strategy going in.
Tip #1: Get Clear on Your Non-Negotiables Before You Inquire
Before you reach out to any vendor, write down:
The top 3 things that matter most to you
What you don’t care about
Your realistic budget range for that category
When you’re grounded in your priorities, upsells become easier to filter out.
Ask yourself: “Does this add value to our experience, or just add cost?”
Tip #2: Ask for Custom or “Scaled-Back” Options (Even If They’re Not Listed)
If a vendor doesn’t show a basic package, that doesn’t mean one doesn’t exist.
Try phrases like:
“Do you offer a more minimal or coverage-only option?”
“What would this look like if we stripped it down to the essentials?”
“Is there flexibility to customize this package?”
You’re allowed to ask. The worst they can say is no.
Tip #3: Don’t Let Industry Language Pressure You
Words like “must-have,” “standard,” or “everyone does this” can quietly push you into spending more.
Remember:
There is no wedding rulebook
Trends are optional
Your wedding doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s to be valid
If something doesn’t align with your values or vision, it’s okay to pass — even if it’s popular.
Tip #4: Choose Fewer Vendors (And Use Them Well)
One of the easiest ways to simplify your wedding is to:
Reduce the number of vendors you’re coordinating
Choose professionals who respect your boundaries
Opt for vendors who value communication over constant upgrades
Simple weddings often rely on strong planning and clear expectations, not more services.
Tip #5: Have Someone in Your Corner Who Isn’t Selling You Anything
This is where many couples feel stuck — you want guidance, but not more pressure.
Having a neutral expert (like a virtual wedding coach 😉) means:
You get honest advice without commissions
You learn how to push back gracefully
You stay in control of decisions and spending
You feel supported without hiring a full-service planner
You Can Have a Simple Wedding — And Still Feel Confident
Creating a simple wedding in today’s wedding industry takes intention, clarity, and support — but it is possible.
You’re not behind.
You’re not doing it wrong.
And you don’t need every upgrade to have a beautiful day.
Want help simplifying your wedding without pressure or upsells?
Start with my Design Your Dream Wedding guide — or respond SIMPLE to get access to my calendar for a free 1:1 planning session.
You deserve a wedding that feels like you — not a sales pitch.
