How to Plan a Beautiful Wedding Under $15,000 in Orange County

Planning a dream wedding in Orange County without overspending is possible! With smart budgeting and strategic choices, you can have an elegant and unforgettable wedding for under $15,000. From choosing the right venue to cutting unnecessary costs, this guide will help you maximize your budget while still creating a stunning wedding day.

Budget Breakdown: Planning a $15,000 Wedding in Orange County

Here’s an estimated budget allocation for a $15,000 wedding in Orange County:

✔️ Venue & Catering – $6,000 – $8,000
✔️ Photography & Videography – $2,500 – $6,000
✔️ Dress & Attire – $800 – $1,500
✔️ Florals & Decor – $800 – $1,200
✔️ Entertainment (DJ/Band) – $600 – $1,500
✔️ Invitations & Stationery – $200 – $500
✔️ Wedding Cake & Desserts – $300 – $600
✔️ Miscellaneous (Favors, Permits, Gratuities) – $600 – $1,200

💡 Pro Tip: Prioritize the aspects of your wedding that matter most and adjust your budget accordingly.

Affordable Wedding Venues in Orange County

Choosing the right venue is the biggest cost-saving factor when planning an affordable wedding in Orange County. Here are some budget-friendly venue options:

🌿 Community Centers & Parks – Many cities offer beautiful event spaces at a fraction of the cost. Examples:

Laguna Beach Community Center
Fullerton Arboretum
Huntington Beach Central Park

🏡 Backyard & Private Estate Weddings – Hosting at a family member’s home or renting an Airbnb can save thousands.

Check out Kayla + Josh’s Private Estate Wedding captured by our team

💍 All-Inclusive Venues – Some venues offer affordable wedding packages that bundle catering, decor, and coordination, such as:

Wedgewood Weddings (Multiple OC Locations)
The Vintage Rose (Orange, CA)
Ole Hanson Beach Club (San Clemente, CA)

How to Save Money on Wedding Photography & Videography

📸 Book a Photography & Videography Bundle – Hiring one company for both can offer discounts. Example: Shoreline Weddings.
💡 Limit Coverage Time – Opt for 6–8 hours instead of full-day coverage to reduce costs.

More ways to save on photos and videos

Budget-Friendly Catering & Bar Options

🍽️ Opt for Buffet or Food Trucks – These can be more affordable than plated meals.
🍹 Limit the Open Bar – Offer beer, wine, and a signature cocktail instead of a full bar.
🍰 Consider Alternative Desserts – Cupcakes, donuts, or a small cutting cake can reduce costs.

Affordable Wedding Dresses & Attire

👗 Shop Sample Sales & Off-the-Rack – Bridal stores often have sample sales where you can find dresses at 50%–80% off.
💍 Rent or Buy Pre-Owned – Sites like Stillwhite and Poshmark offer designer gowns at a discount.
🎩 Tux & Suit Rentals – Stores like Friar Tux offer affordable rental packages for grooms.

DIY Decor & Budget-Friendly Floral Options

🌸 Choose In-Season Flowers – Selecting local & seasonal flowers reduces costs.
🎀 Rent Decor Instead of Buying – Use rental companies for centerpieces, arches, and linens.
🕯️ Use Candles & Greenery – Affordable and adds a romantic touch.

Plan Your Dream Wedding for Under $15,000!

📲 Looking for an affordable Orange County wedding photographer & videographer? Let Shoreline Weddings capture your big day with high-quality yet budget-friendly wedding photography & videography packages.

📍 Serving All Wedding Locations in OC: Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente & More!

💡 Check Our Pricing & Packages Today!