Editor’s Note:
The wedding budget is a topic near and dear to my heart right now. Later this year my daughter Katie will be getting married and so our house is a constant buzz of wedding talk. But everything comes at a price. Fortunately, I’ve raised her well and she understands the value of money and has found many ways to economize without sacrificing the essentials. Creativity counts and can definitely help you save money while still creating the perfect moment. Tim McMahon~editor
Wedding Budget?
You’ve dreamed about it since childhood, you’ve got it all mapped out in your head, you want it to be perfect – but perfection comes at a price. So what happens when your wedding dreams outstrip your financial reality?
Wedding magazines filled with designer dresses, sparkling diamonds, and fancy cars are enough to make most people envious but there is no reason you can’t have that perfect day on a tight wedding budget.
This article will explore different ways that you can cut back on cost without compromising on quality for your special day.
The b-word:
Yes, you saw it coming, not just any budget but a wedding budget! Budget for everything. Set yourself a maximum budget and then break it down into subcategories for flowers, food, reception, outfits, venue, honeymoon, photography etc – this should make things easier to manage.
As with all budgets, the hard bit is actually sticking to it and wedding budgets are no exception. You’re at the wedding fair, and you’ve got your budget for flowers set but… is it really so bad to spend just a few dollars more per bouquet to have those lovely sparkly bits? Yes, it is! If you want to go over your budget in one area, the simple fact is you will need to make cutbacks in another area. Be ruthless, set your priorities, and try to come up with a cut price alternative.
Remind yourself that thousands of people end up trapped in wedding debt for many years of married life – and financial stress can put a strain on your happy new life together. Setting yourselves a realistic budget and sticking to it can help to avoid this.
The Bartering Bride
Wedding venues can often be the biggest cost of all especially if they are catering the event too. However, you do not have to take the first price that is offered. Do not be afraid to discuss different options – for example, would the venue be cheaper on a different day? In many cases, thousands can be saved simply by choosing an ‘off-peak’ wedding date; Monday – Thursday, October – March.
The wedding meal can be a huge expense with many venues charging high costs per head for each guest. Find out whether the venue allows external catering as you may be able to save money by opting to outsource your catering, giving you more opportunity to shop around for a good price.
Failing this, find out if the venue can offer different meal packages, for example 2-courses instead of three, or simply going for the buffet option and giving your guests an early opportunity to mingle.
Being a little cheeky can also go along way. If your photographer will not drop the price, will they throw in a few extra large prints or photo gifts? These could make great thank-you presents for loved ones. If you buy your own dress and all your bridesmaids’ dresses from the same retailer, are they willing to offer a discount or throw in the veil and accessories too? Remember there’s no harm in asking and it could save you lots in the long run.
Do It Yourself?
Not only is it cheaper or cost-free to do bits yourself but it also means that they are done to your high standards! This doesn’t mean you’re expected to bake your own cake whilst picking your own flowers and drive yourself to the venue but if you are a creative person (or know someone who is!) then even doing some of the little tasks yourself could have big cost savings.
You could save money by making your own wedding favors, centerpieces, invitations, or order of service. Often all you need is a printer, a local craft store, and a little creative thinking. There are many books, blogs, and sites dedicated to creative weddings waiting to inspire you!
Tot Up as You Go Along
When it comes to finally spending your hard-earned savings on your perfect day, it can be easy to get carried away. Ensure that you keep a close eye on your budget at every step of the journey and keep track of all that you have spent. If you are getting close to the limit, sit down and look at areas that you can make cutbacks.
Stick to your wedding budget and you could find yourself well on the way to your perfect wedding day without the financial hangover.
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