I’m a design expert – my simple swaps will slash $1,500 off your wedding budget

analyzed the professional costs of a range of wedding budget elements and compared them to D.I.Y craft swaps to reveal the top five areas that can help save couples money.

WEDDING STATIONERY

The study found that couples can save the most money by opting for DIY versions of invites, programs, and thank you cards.

Professional wedding stationery can cost upwards of $1,025, whereas the crafted version will cost you $478 for a wedding of 200 guests, according to the study.

WELCOME SIGNS

The next area you can save major bucks on is welcome signage.

Swapping an elaborate sign for one made of a metallic easel, an acrylic board, and floral garlands will only cost you $84.47 compared to other options that can go up to $618.

CENTERPIECES

Additionally, choosing DIY table centerpieces over professionally-made versions can you upwards of $277.

According to the study, professional centerpieces can cost you $637, but if you make them yourself using twine, glass vases, and flowers, it will only take $359.

PARTY FAVORS

Favors to hand out at the end of the night are another wedding expense that can cost a pretty penny.

But if you make them yourself with jute bags, candy, and hand-written thank-you notes, you can save yourself $163.

CEREMONY DECOR

The last area couples can save some cash on in their wedding is on ceremony decorations, such as the aisle runner and ceremony arch.

While it may not be much, you can save almost $30 by creating your own ceremony decor instead of a professional setup, which can cost you $1,016.

Meanwhile, one thrifty bride shared the wedding traditions she's skipping because they are too expensive including a guest book and save the dates.

Additionally, another bride opted for a Forever 21 dress for her wedding, which cost her less than $100 for the entire day.