When it comes to planning your wedding, one of the biggest pieces of your budget puzzle is your venue. At The Bridge Lemont, we know how important it is to make every dollar count — and we love helping couples create beautiful celebrations without unnecessary overspending. Whether you’re tying the knot under our covered outdoor ceremony space or saying “I do” in our indoor ceremony hall, there are smart ways to make the most of your venue investment.
Here are some expert tips on where to splurge and where to save when booking your wedding at The Bridge Lemont!
Where to Splurge
Photography & Videography
Our venue offers stunning backdrops, from rustic chandeliers to twinkling string lights in the reception hall. A talented photographer who knows how to capture these details — along with all your special moments — is worth every penny. Be sure to ask us for recommendations from our list of trusted vendors who are already familiar with the best photo spots on the property.
Entertainment Extras to Elevate the Celebration
While a great DJ or band is a wedding staple, adding unique entertainment elements can turn your wedding into an unforgettable experience for your guests. Consider splurging on something unexpected like a live acoustic musician for the ceremony, a string quartet during dinner, or even a photo booth in the reception hall that fits seamlessly into the rustic charm of The Bridge Lemont. These personalized entertainment touches not only keep guests engaged, but they also add to the overall atmosphere — making the entire celebration feel thoughtfully curated and extra special.
Day of Coordination
Even the most organized couples can benefit from professional day-of coordination. A coordinator who knows The Bridge Lemont well can help manage vendors, keep your timeline on track, and make sure all the little details — from ceremony setup to the final send-off — go off without a hitch.
Food & Beverage
While The Bridge Lemont does not provide catering, we do offer a curated list of trusted caterers who know our venue and can deliver an exceptional dining experience. Splurging on quality food and personalized bar service will keep your guests raving for years to come.
Where to Save
Over-the-top Decor
With the natural beauty of our outdoor ceremony space and the rustic charm of our indoor reception hall, you don’t need to go overboard with decorations. Let the venue’s character shine by focusing on a few statement pieces, like a floral arch for your ceremony or elegant centerpieces.
Guest Count
One of the most effective ways to save money on your wedding — without sacrificing style or quality — is to trim your guest list. At The Bridge Lemont, hosting a more intimate celebration not only reduces costs for catering, rentals, and favors, but also allows you to splurge on the details that matter most to you, like upgraded décor, specialty desserts, or live entertainment. With fewer guests to accommodate, you can focus on creating an unforgettable experience for your closest family and friends, all while staying within your budget.
Wedding Favors
Instead of spending a fortune on elaborate favors, consider simple edible treats (like personalized cookies) or a donation to charity in your guests’ honor. Many couples are skipping favors altogether and opting to invest in memorable experiences instead.
Flowers
Flowers are beautiful but can quickly inflate your budget. Repurpose ceremony florals into your reception space to maximize your investment, and focus on seasonal blooms for the best value.
Printed Programs and Disposable Cameras
Traditional printed programs and stacks of disposable cameras can add unnecessary costs — and waste — to your wedding budget. Instead, consider a single, beautifully designed welcome sign with a QR code that links to your ceremony program, menu, or even a shared photo album where guests can upload pictures they take on their phones. This modern, eco-friendly option fits right in at The Bridge Lemont and encourages guests to capture and share candid moments throughout the day — all without the need for dozens of disposable cameras or printed materials.
At The Bridge Lemont, we believe every couple deserves a beautiful wedding that reflects their style — no matter the budget. Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant indoor celebration or a laid-back outdoor ceremony, our flexible spaces and trusted vendors make it easy to create a day that feels uniquely yours.
Ready to tour The Bridge Lemont and start planning?
Contact us today to schedule a visit and discover how we can help bring your dream wedding to life — without breaking the bank.