If you’re planning a South Asian wedding, you already know, every decision feels like a high-stakes investment. From food to flowers, it’s easy to lose perspective on where to save and where to splurge.
The truth? It’s not about cutting costs, it’s about spending with intention. Here’s your guide to making confident, strategic choices that balance beauty, practicality, and impact.
SPLURGE: Photography & Videography
Your wedding lasts a few days; your photos last a lifetime. Invest in a photographer and videographer whose style you love and who has experience with multi-day South Asian events. They’re not just capturing moments, they’re consolidating your memories.
SAVE: Invitations & Stationery
Yes, they’re the first impression, but most end up in recycling bins. Go digital for save-the-dates, RSVPs, and itineraries. If you love paper, splurge on one hero piece (like your main invite or program) and simplify the rest.
SPLURGE: Food & Guest Experience
Guests might forget your décor, but they’ll never forget if the food was great. In South Asian weddings, food isn’t just a meal, it’s part of the celebration itself. You need variety, and that’s not about excess, it’s about making sure everyone feels considered, from your vegetarian relatives to your spice-loving friends.
A well-balanced menu with multiple flavor profiles, textures, and regional favorites always stands out. Splurge on quality ingredients, service and presentation, the things that make guests feel cared for and excited to be part of your event.
SAVE: Décor (But Plan It Smartly)
Beautiful décor doesn’t have to mean expensive décor. Focus on statement moments, your mandap, stage, or photo backdrop and keep the rest minimal. Reuse flowers and props between events, and lean on lighting to transform spaces without heavy spending.
SPLURGE: Music & Energy
Your DJ or live band sets the tone for the entire celebration. Great sound, smooth transitions, and crowd reading make the difference between a good night and an unforgettable one. This is one place to invest in professionals who understand your mix of guests and can blend genres seamlessly.
SAVE: Wedding Favors
Skip the trinkets that get left behind. Opt for something consumable like mithai, snacks, or candles from a local small business. It feels thoughtful, supports local makers and doesn’t drain your budget.
SPLURGE: Coordination & Day-Of Management
A strong coordinator is the operational backbone of your wedding. They control the timeline, manage vendors and handle a hundred moving parts so you (and your family) don’t have to.
Good coordination preserves your sanity and ensures that the money you’ve spent on everything else such as décor, music, catering actually shows up the way it’s supposed to. Even the best plans fall flat without good execution, and that’s where a skilled coordinator makes every other expense worth it.
Tip: Always choose someone who’s been personally recommended, ideally a coordinator or planner a friend has worked with and can vouch for. Referrals matter more than a pretty Instagram feed.
SPLURGE: Guest Experience & Entertainment
After all the planning, what people remember most is how they felt. Invest in something unique or interactive that engages your guests, a live percussionist or performance or specialized food or beverage vendors like a paan vendor.
You don’t need to go overboard; even one well-thought-out, high-impact moment creates magic. When guests feel entertained and connected, it elevates your entire event and leaves lasting memories that outshine the décor.
SAVE: Outfits for Smaller Events
Not every outfit needs to be couture. Mix designer pieces with local artisans, rentals, or re-styled family heirlooms. Save for haldi, mehndi, or brunch looks, it’s all about balance and comfort.
Final Thought
Saving vs. splurging isn’t about deprivation, it’s about directing your resources toward what truly matters to you. The smartest brides don’t spend less, they spend with purpose.
Want More Insider Tips?
If you want more ways to avoid hidden fees, negotiate with confidence, and know exactly what’s worth the splurge, check out the Saajh Wedding Vendor Selection & Negotiations Guide — built to protect, empower, and prepare you for the biggest celebration of your life.