Weddings in Delhi are known for their grandeur, lavish décor, and vibrant celebrations. But planning a memorable wedding on a budget of under ₹5 lakhs is completely possible with
smart planning, prioritization, and expert guidance. A budget-friendly wedding doesn’t mean compromising on style or experience—it’s about making strategic choices that maximize value
and create unforgettable memories. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning a beautiful wedding under ₹5 lakhs in Delhi.
Set a Realistic Budget Breakdown
Before you start planning, allocate your budget thoughtfully to cover all key elements:
- Expense Category SuggestedAllocation
- Venue & Catering 40–45%
- Décor & Flowers 20%
- Photography & Videography 10–15%
- Attire & Accessories 10%
- Entertainment & Music 5–10%
- Miscellaneous & Contingency 5%
Pro Tip: Keep a small buffer for unexpected costs—about 5–10% of the total budget.
- Venue Selection on a Budget: The venue is one of the biggest wedding expenses. Here’s how to choose smartly:
● Affordable Banquet Halls: Delhi offers many beautiful halls in South, East, and Central Delhi under ₹2–3 lakhs for wedding functions. Examples include local community halls, smaller banquet spaces, or even lawns with minimal rent.
● Off-Peak Booking: Weekdays or off-season weddings are cheaper than weekend bookings.
● Multi-Purpose Spaces: Venues that allow in-house catering and décor can reduce extra vendor costs.
● Outdoor Lawns & Gardens: For daytime weddings, small lawns or terrace spaces provide a charming setup at a lower price.️ Catering on a Budget Food is a highlight of any Indian wedding. With careful planning, you can provide a satisfying menu without overspending.
● Per-Person Cost: Limit catering to ₹500–700 per guest for a 100–150 guest wedding.
● Buffet Style: Buffets are cost-effective and allow more variety at a lower cost.
● Signature Dishes Only: Focus on 2–3 standout dishes rather than an extensive 10–15 item menu.
● Local Caterers: Hiring trusted local vendors in Delhi can save money while maintaining quality.
Expert Tip: Include vegetarian options—these are often cheaper and widely enjoyed by guests. - Budget-Friendly Décor: Décor can be both elegant and affordable with creativity:
● Minimalist Themes: Use flowers, fairy lights, and drapes for a classy setup without over-the-top extravagance.
● DIY Elements: Personalized name boards, photo corners, and simple table décor can reduce costs.
● Hire Local Decorators: Local decorators in Delhi often offer lower rates than big wedding decorators.
● Reusable Elements: Use décor items across multiple functions instead of investing separately for each event. - Attire & Jewelry: Even on a budget, you can look stunning:
● Rent or Pre-Owned Outfits: Renting bridal lehengas or groom’s sherwanis is affordable and convenient.
● Mix & Match: Use one or two key outfits for multiple functions instead of buying separate outfits for each.
● Borrow Jewelry: Family heirlooms or rented jewelry can save a lot while maintaining elegance. - Photography & Videography: Capturing memories is crucial, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune:
● Hire Emerging Photographers: Talented newcomers often charge less than top-tier professionals.
● Focus on Key Moments: Cover only the main events instead of all pre-wedding and post-wedding functions.
● Digital Albums: Opt for digital delivery rather than printed albums to save money. - Entertainment & Music:
● DJ or Playlist: Hire a single DJ or create curated playlists for ceremonies instead of multiple live bands.
● Minimal Performances: Choose one or two memorable entertainment elements rather than multiple acts.
● Family Participation: Encourage family or friends to perform for a personal and cost-effective touch.
Additional Tips for a Wedding Under 5 Lakhs
1. Guest List Control: Limiting your guest list to close family and friends reduces catering, décor, and venue costs.
2. Combine Functions: Use the same venue for multiple events to save on transport and setup costs.
3. Negotiate Vendors: Don’t hesitate to compare quotes and negotiate packages with decorators, caterers, and photographers.
4. Prioritize: Focus spending on elements that matter most to you and cut down on less impactful areas.
Final Thoughts
Planning a beautiful wedding under ₹5 lakhs in Delhi is entirely achievable with smart decisions, creativity, and careful budgeting. From choosing the right venue and catering to décor, attire, and entertainment, every element can be tailored to deliver a memorable experience without financial stress. With the right planning, your wedding can be personalized, elegant, and unforgettable, all while staying comfortably within your budget.
