Wedding Bands > Wedding Planning Ideas > The Basics of Managing Your Wedding Budget
The Basics of Managing Your Wedding Budget
Champagne dreams on a generic soda budget? It's still possible to have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. Make a note of all of these basic expenses to make the most of your budget, whatever it may be!
- Determine Your Budget. You don't have to have this planned right down to the dollar, but a ballpark of what you want to spend in total is the first step to keeping your bank account intact. Don't forget to think about what you're allotting for your honeymoon, too. Once you've determined a wedding-only budget, you're ready for the next step.
- Figure Out Your Guest List. It's wise to start listing all of the guests you want to invite. Because you'll inevitably have some guests who can't make the wedding, your original guest list shouldn't stray too much even if your mother decides to invite some last-minute guests.
- Catering and Cake. Once you've decided on the two big factors above, you'll be able to narrow down your venue choices. The biggest expense is often the catering costs, which is calculated per guest. Find out what your top venue choices are charging per person for food and drink, and this will greatly help determine other details.
- Wedding Rings. One thing you can't do without on the Big Day! Shopping around is key, and Robbins Brothers is a great place to start the search.
- Venue Rental Fees. Find out exactly what other costs will be added to the bill aside from the food and drinks. Some venues will waive the venue rental fee if you use their caterer. Other venues will charge separately. This can also be a significant cost, so it's best to get everything up front and in writing.
- The Decorations. Another considerable cost will come from decorations such as flowers, party favors, linens, canopies, etc. Depending on the theme of your wedding, the costs can span a wide range. If you're looking to trim down on some of these costs but not skimp on the decorations, check out our article on Ways to Save Money
- Wedding Services. Shop around for photographers and videographers. A DJ or emcee will also often charge by the hour, so unless you've got a cousin who's willing to step in for the role, be prepared to add that to the budget. Be prepared to pay for the marriage license and a nominal fee for an officiant as well.
- The Attire. Though the groom's outfit is usually rented for a nominal fee, the bride's dress is a bit more complicated. Prices often range from $100 to $10,000, and it's really up to the bride to shop around and find the perfect dress that's within a set budget. And don't forget about accessories and shoes.
- Accommodation and Transportation. Make sure you reserve your rooms early to get the best deals. If you're planning on renting a limo, be sure to add that to your expenses.
- Rehearsal Dinner. Though traditionally the groom's family pays for this cost, sometimes the expense falls on the couple. If that's the case, be sure to plan a restaurant accordingly.
- Gratuity. Many times, couples forget that there will be gratuity added to several of the service bills. Don't forget to have a small reserve aside for just that.
- Hire a Short-Term Wedding Consultant. Though this seems like a big expense, it can actually be an investment because most consultants have great connections with professional wedding services, as well as tried-and-true ideas for achieving your dream wedding a budget.
- Stick to the Budget! A budget is no good if you don't stick to it! The key is to stick to the conservative end of things, as you'll inevitably come across other expenses as the planning progresses.
If you're thinking of curbing costs early to prevent any chance of breaking the bank, then here are 5 lightning-quick ways to trim expenses:
- Cut down your guest list. Even cutting it down by ten guests might help you pay for a more upscale affair or allow you to upgrade on other details.
- Change the day from Saturday to Friday or opt for an afternoon wedding instead. This is one of the quickest ways to cut fees by 30% or more.
- Change the meal from served to buffet. Because there's no wait staff to pay for, you'll save significantly.
- See what the family will help out with rather than rely on credit cards. You never know until you ask, and oftentimes, they'll be generous for an occasion such as this.
- Cut out unnecessary expenses such as a limo, fussy decorations, or a full cocktail bar. Get more tips on Ways to Save Money right here.
