Mastering Your Wedding Budget
Photography by Sean Cook Photography
Written by Curator Nicole Fauls, Owner, Urban Allure Events
Embarking on the journey of wedding planning is both thrilling and daunting, and one of the first hurdles to tackle is setting a budget. While discussing finances may not be the most romantic aspect of getting married, it's an essential step in ensuring your special day is both memorable and financially manageable.
Here are 3 quick steps to create your wedding budget:
Step One: Overall Budget = $100,000
Step Two: Guest List = 200 guests
Step Three: Venue Style / Location
Step one: Overall Budget
Photography by Loren Weddings
Determine who will be contributing to the wedding fund. In today's world, it's common for couples to finance their own weddings with contributions from family members or even personal savings. Does your budget include the rehearsal dinner? Your dress? Rings? Having an open and honest discussion with your partner about your financial expectations and limitations is crucial to avoid any misunderstandings down the line and getting you on the right track!
Step two: Guest List
Next, carefully consider your guest list. While it's tempting to invite everyone you've ever known, keep in mind that the size of your guest list will significantly impact your budget. One of the most significant expenses of any wedding is catering and bar - the bigger guest count - the higher this amount.
Pro tip: Be mindful of additional costs such as staffing, tables, chairs, linens, gratuities, and taxes.
Step three: Venue Style
Photography by Alisa Tova Photography
When it comes to choosing a venue, think about what's most important to you as a couple. Whether it's a beautiful tent in the countryside or an elegant ballroom in the heart of the city, each option comes with its own price tag. For example: Tented Wedding = offsite catering, generators, tents, equipment, band, +++ (it adds up!) vs. a Hotel Ballroom where everything is already on site.
Pro tip: Do your research on your budget before you start the venue search! Don’t fall in love with something you can’t afford!
Ultimately, planning a wedding on a budget requires careful consideration, compromise, and creativity. Remember that it's possible to have a beautiful and memorable wedding without breaking the bank! By setting realistic expectations, prioritizing what's most important to you as a couple, and being mindful of your spending, you can create the wedding of your dreams while staying within your means.
AND if you need some extra advice and recommendations HIRE A PLANNER. You should expect to spend 10-15% of your budget for planning services. Planning your wedding is a full time job and the biggest event you may have (and will have) ever throw! Hiring a professional planner will help you create a realistic budget and allocate based on priorities and then find the perfect vendor team to work within your budget.
