How to plan a wedding on a budget

As my fiancée and I were planning our wedding, one recurring thought continued to drive our decision to get married: “‘I do’ doesn’t have to mean ‘Go broke.

I do know chances are you’ll think the above is common sense, but let me remind you that emotions often take over when it comes to matters of the center.

Where does the cash come from to cover the prices of recent weddings? Unlike up to now, when parents absorbed a large portion of wedding expenses, today’s couples have to be liable for the whole cost of the wedding, reception and honeymoon.

Do you might have 1000’s saved up and earmarked to your wedding? If not, all shouldn’t be lost, you possibly can plan a wedding with class, fun and pleasure.

You just need to think creatively and be willing to develop a easy but comprehensive wedding budget. People tend to hate the “B” word, however it’s an absolute must to avoid going broke on a one-day celebration. As with most matters of the center, it’s essential to be willing to communicate and make decisions that can show you how to stay aligned along with your long-term goals. Don’t let “yes” make you “broke.”

To manage your total wedding expenses, consider the next:

1. Wedding venue

When planning your wedding, you’ll quickly find that the word “wedding” robotically adds a premium to the traditional cost of products and services. There are non-traditional options that provide a nice atmosphere for you and your guests. Consider outdoor locations akin to a park or other public location. Additionally, destination weddings have gotten an increasing number of popular because they permit you to manage overall costs while providing you and your guests with a beautiful setting.

2. Manage your guest list

The general rule is that folks like to take part in the wedding celebrations of the bride and groom. The query you wish to ask yourself is, “Can we cover the costs of having business partners, old primary school teachers and family we can’t contact regularly, etc.?” Don’t be afraid to shorten your guest list, as $30-$125 a plate can get expensive.

3. Food

As mentioned above, a wedding reception can turn your budget the wrong way up. A $20-$30 welcome dinner turns into $30-$125 simply because it involves a “wedding.” When planning a party, consider options that allow you to select your individual caterer reasonably than using an in-house caterer. By using an outdoor catering company, you possibly can save a whole bunch or 1000’s of dollars.

4. Dress

Generally probably the most expensive items in your wedding budget, focusing on your wedding dress can take you out of your budget if you happen to change into inquisitive about celebrity brands and associations. Don’t be intimidated by boutiques, discount purveyors and second-hand stores.

5. Photography/videography/music

You cannot afford to skimp on your photography investment. Photos are a souvenir that you’ll keep for a lifetime. Photos allow you to stay connected to the special moments before, during and right after you say “I do!” Videography is something you possibly can do without if you happen to’re on a tight budget. Chances are you will only watch your wedding video a few times before it takes up residence in your attic. Music is an area where you possibly can be creative. You can create the fun atmosphere you wish by utilizing a playlist as an alternative of hiring a DJ or live band. By selecting the playlist option, you possibly can save $500-$1,500, depending on your alternative of DJ or band.

6. Various

There are many alternative services and products you possibly can fall in love with and change into overwhelmed with when planning your wedding. However, if it isn’t in your budget, skip it. Save the Date cards will be replaced with email or web notifications. Wedding gifts tend to be thrown away by guests after the event, so don’t focus an excessive amount of on having them as a part of the celebration. The list goes on.

The above shows just a few of the several elements of wedding celebrations. As you possibly can see, the prices add up and will be overwhelming. Remember that there are couples who’ve chosen to have a courthouse ceremony and are still married. Don’t let the infatuation of “yes” cause you to “go broke.” Make smart financial decisions that can allow you to save for the long run future reasonably than for a 4-10 hour event.