Planning A Wedding: Budgeting For Your Big Day

Planning a wedding can be an exciting but daunting task, especially when it comes to budgeting. The average cost of a wedding is around $30,000 to $35,000, but it is possible to plan a wedding on a tighter budget. Here are some tips to help you create a wedding budget plan and save money:

- Figure out your budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on your wedding. Be realistic and consider your financial situation.

- Prioritize: Decide what is most important to you and your partner. For example, you might want to splurge on a photographer but save on decorations.

- Venue: Opt for a smaller venue or a non-traditional space like a community centre, church, or local park. You could also consider getting married outdoors or at a family member's house to save money.

- Guest list: A smaller guest list will significantly reduce costs. With fewer guests, you'll spend less on food, drinks, and rentals.

- Catering: Instead of hiring a caterer, consider preparing the food yourself or enlisting the help of family and friends. You could also opt for a potluck-style dinner or a dessert bar instead of a traditional wedding cake.

- Alcohol: Serving only beer and wine, or soft drinks and juices, can help reduce costs.

- Decorations: DIY your decorations or use natural accents like cut tree stumps and pine cones. You could also use candles or rent decorations from a thrift store.

- Flowers: Buy flowers in bulk from a wholesaler or a non-wedding provider, or opt for artificial flowers.

- Attire: Shop for a wedding dress at sample sales or online. You could also consider renting a dress or buying a second-hand one. For the groom, a simple suit can be more affordable than a tuxedo.

- Music: Create your own playlist instead of hiring a DJ or band.

- Photography: Ask a talented friend to take your wedding photos, or hire a student photographer at a lower cost.

- Invitations: Send digital invitations via email or social media to save on printing and postage costs.

- Honeymoon: Consider a staycation or honeymoon closer to home to reduce travel expenses.

- Wedding party: Ask your wedding party to wear their own attire or shop for affordable options online.

- Timing: Getting married off-peak, on a weekday, or in the morning can be more affordable.

- Transportation: Renting a private car or using a ride-sharing service can be cheaper than a limo.

- Extras: Skip the wedding favours, save on postage by having a wedding website for RSVPs, and make your own centrepieces.

Remember, it's your wedding, so make it personal and meaningful to you and your partner. You don't have to spend a fortune to have a memorable and special day.

How to set a wedding budget

Setting a wedding budget can be a daunting task, but it is crucial to ensure you don't overspend. Here are some steps to help you set a realistic and detailed wedding budget:

Determine Your Finances

Firstly, you need to figure out how much you can afford to spend on your wedding. Be realistic and honest about your financial situation. Consider your savings, income, and any contributions from family or friends. It is important to have a clear understanding of how much money you have to work with before allocating funds to different aspects of the wedding.

Prioritize Your Spending

Sit down with your partner and discuss your priorities for the wedding. Decide on the three most important aspects that you want to splurge on, such as the venue, catering, or photography. This will help you allocate your budget effectively and ensure that you are spending money on the things that matter most to you.

Research Average Costs

Do your research on the average costs of different wedding elements, such as catering, flowers, attire, etc. This will give you a sense of how much to allocate for each category. Keep in mind that costs can vary depending on your location, the time of year, and the size of your wedding.

Create a Detailed Breakdown

Create a comprehensive budget breakdown that includes all the expenses you will incur. This should include the venue, catering, attire, flowers, entertainment, photography, stationery, transportation, and any other specific items important to you. Be sure to account for hidden costs, such as tips, taxes, and service fees.

Find Ways to Save

Look for ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of your wedding. Consider having a smaller guest list, choosing an off-peak date, opting for a less expensive venue, DIY-ing certain elements, or shopping for second-hand items. Remember, it's the little adjustments that can lead to significant savings in the long run.

Track Your Spending

Use a spreadsheet, budgeting app, or wedding planning tools to track your spending. Stay organized and record every payment to ensure you don't exceed your budget. Regularly check in with your partner and anyone else contributing financially to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Be Flexible and Make Compromises

Remember that your budget is not set in stone. Be prepared to make compromises and adjustments along the way. If you go over budget in one area, find ways to save in another. For example, if you spend more on catering than expected, you might opt for a less expensive photographer or choose a simpler wedding cake.

Don't Sacrifice Your Dreams

While budgeting is essential, don't lose sight of what matters most to you. If having a live band or a particular venue is your dream, find a way to make it work within your budget. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so strike a balance between financial responsibility and creating lasting memories.

How to choose your top wedding priorities

Deciding on your top wedding priorities can be challenging, especially with so many expectations and pressures from society and loved ones. However, it is crucial to understand your "why" and set priorities that align with your values and vision. Here are some steps to help you choose your top wedding priorities:

Understand Your "Why"

It's important to be clear about why you're hosting a wedding. Ask yourself: Does the thought of hosting a wedding bring me joy? How do I want to feel at my wedding, and how do I want my guests to feel? What are my wants and don't wants? What three words describe the essence of my relationship?

Define Your Priorities

Sit down with your partner and create a list of possible wedding expenses. Some common expenses include the venue, catering, photography, videography, wedding attire, flowers, entertainment, etc. Go through the list and circle the three things that matter most to each of you. Then, narrow it down to your top three overall priorities as a couple.

Align Your Vision

Discuss your wedding vision and values with your partner. For example, if you both love the idea of a family-style meal with local, seasonal ingredients, catering might take priority over other expenses.

Be Flexible and Adaptable

Remember, there are no wrong answers, and every couple's priorities are unique. Be open to adjusting your priorities as you plan. For instance, you might realize that glamorous details on indifferent items spike costs without adding fun to your day.

Stay True to Yourselves

Your wedding should be a genuine expression of your love and relationship. Don't feel pressured to upgrade or include elements that don't align with your vision and values. Be honest with each other about your hopes, needs, and dreams for the wedding.

Consider Your Budget

While setting priorities, be mindful of your budget and the cost of different expenses. You may need to make compromises or allocate more funds to certain areas to cover your top priorities.

By following these steps, you can choose your top wedding priorities and create a wedding that truly reflects who you are as a couple.

How to find a budget-friendly wedding venue

The wedding venue is often one of the most expensive parts of getting married, but there are ways to keep costs down. Here are some tips for finding a venue that suits your budget.

Work with a wedding planner

Wedding planners can help you secure and book a venue that fits your budget. They will have a network of contacts and be able to create a list of venues that meet your needs and preferences.

Choose a public space

Public spaces such as national parks, city halls, beaches, and courthouses are often available to hire at a low cost or even free. For example, a special use permit for a wedding in a US national park costs around $100.

Opt for a backyard wedding

A backyard wedding can be a great way to save money on a venue, but remember to check with your town and county about permitting and insurance, and consider renting luxury portable restrooms.

Ask friends and family

If you don't want to host your wedding at your own home, ask friends and family if they can host it at theirs.

Choose a restaurant or café

Many restaurants and cafés have private dining rooms or outdoor spaces that can be hired at a reasonable cost. A full-service establishment will also have tables, chairs, and dinnerware included, saving you money on rentals.

Pick a unique venue

Libraries, museums, aquariums, and zoos can all make unique and affordable wedding venues.

Get married at an educational institution

Hire a space at your alma mater or a picturesque campus to save money on your wedding venue.

Negotiate

Remember that many venues are open to negotiation. You may be able to get a discount on the venue rental fee, or have certain fees associated with the venue waived.

Trim the guest list

With fewer guests, you can choose a smaller venue, which is likely to be cheaper.

Choose an off-peak time

Opt for a weekday or morning wedding, rather than a Saturday evening, which is likely to be more expensive.

Shop around

Take your time to research and compare prices to ensure you find a venue that fits your budget.

Use a credit card

Pay for your venue with a credit card to earn rewards or travel points that you can put toward your honeymoon.

How to save on wedding food and drink

The average cost of food for a wedding of 66 guests in 2020 was $4,075, or $62 per plate. However, there are ways to reduce this cost.

Venue

Firstly, if you haven't booked your venue yet, look for one that allows you to bring in an outside caterer. This will allow you to compare prices and select the most affordable option.

Appetizers

Instead of offering an elaborate assortment of bites, stick to two or three simple options that require less labour and will therefore cut back on service fees.

Dinner

Plated dinners are the most expensive menu style. A buffet-style meal is more affordable since it requires less prep and fewer staff. A food truck is another budget-friendly and fun alternative.

If you're set on a plated dinner, reduce the number of courses you serve. Only offer two courses (either soup or salad, and an entrée) and choose a singular entrée rather than a duo.

Ingredients

Infuse your meals with seasonal ingredients and items grown locally. This will keep costs down because you won't need to cover transportation costs, and it will taste better.

Be strategic with the items you select. A main dish of lobster, oysters, or filet mignon will be more expensive than chicken, turkey, or pork. Keep the preparation and presentation simple.

Dietary Requirements

Not only are vegan or vegetarian menus healthier, but they're also more affordable than meat-centric meals.

Other Tips

• Be flexible with your date. Weekdays and Sundays are often cheaper than Saturdays.
• Get married later in the day so you only have to feed your guests once.
• Opt for a passed food menu of canapés and bowl food, which will give the impression of a continuous flow of food.
• Bring the list of drink options down, especially if it's an open bar.
• If you have a small guest list, use your budget to give your guests an unforgettable dining experience.

How to save on wedding attire

Wedding attire can be expensive, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing style or quality. Here are some tips to help you stay within your budget:

• Stick to your budget: Before you start shopping, create a budget for your wedding attire and be upfront with salespeople about what you can afford. Only try on dresses within your price range to avoid falling in love with a dress that's beyond your budget.
• Research sample sales: Bridal salons often host sample sales to clear out last season's gowns, offering discounts of up to 75% off. Take advantage of these sales to find a stylish gown at a fraction of the original price.
• Attend trunk shows: Trunk shows are another great way to save. They feature exclusive gowns that aren't normally sold in stores, and many salons offer discounts during these events. You may be able to save around 10% on your dream designer dress.
• Choose a simpler style: Gowns with minimal adornments tend to be more affordable. Opt for a gown with less beading and embroidery, or add your own sparkly sash or brooch to a simpler dress. Remember, you can also accessorise with headpieces or shoes to add extra glamour.
• Find a gown that requires minimal alterations: Extensive alterations can be costly. Look for a dress with a corset back, which is easier to adjust than a dress with a button or zipper. A corset back will also accommodate weight changes before your wedding, saving you money on alterations.
• Shop early and keep an eye out for discounts: Start shopping for your wedding dress early, as this will give you more time to find the right dress and take advantage of any discounts or special offers that come up. Many bridal shops offer first-time appointment incentives and sales throughout the year, so do your research before you start shopping.
• Choose a more simplistic wedding dress: Opting for a simpler style can save you money. Gowns with intricate details, such as beading or lace, tend to be more expensive. If you're set on a detailed gown, consider budget-friendly alternatives, such as a layer of sparkle tulle instead of hand-sewn crystals. Accessories like a sequined belt or a dramatic veil can also add glamour without breaking the bank.
• Plan ahead for customizations: Customisations and alterations can add to the cost of your dress. Ask your bridal stylist about the cost of alterations before you commit to a purchase. During your appointment, discuss any desired customizations, such as lining the bodice or adding straps, as it may be easier and cheaper for the designer to make these changes.
• Shop sample gowns and off-the-rack styles: Sample gowns are the dresses used in stores for try-ons, and they are often sold at a discount. While they may need some extra tailoring or TLC, you can find a designer gown at a much lower price. Off-the-rack styles are another option if you want a brand-new dress. These are ready-to-wear gowns that you can purchase directly from the designer, potentially saving you money.
• Attend wedding dress designer trunk shows: Trunk shows are a great way to save on your dream designer dress. They usually offer discounts, and you may be able to take advantage of additional savings if you're a service member, teacher, nurse, or first responder.
• Rent your pre-wedding outfits: Instead of buying new outfits for events like your wedding shower or bachelorette party, consider renting designer dresses from retailers like Rent the Runway and Nearly Newlywed. This will save you money, and you can use the funds you save to splurge on your dream wedding dress.

Frequently asked questions