How to Set a Budget for a Wedding

From the bride's designer dress to the elaborate reception hall to the beautiful wedding cake, the costs of a wedding can leave you broke even before the honeymoon begins. Budget your wedding accordingly, and you can enjoy a lovely wedding that doesn't leave you and your spouse in debt for the next few years.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Set your budget and figure out what is important and what is not. Spend your money on those items which are the highest priority for you. Figure out if it's more important to invite 500 guests or if you really need that Vera Wang gown.
2. Choose a time of year other than spring. Spring is the main season for weddings and also the most expensive time to get married. Consider getting married during a different season if possible.
3. Visit or call a variety of vendors for wedding services. Prices can vary dramatically, and you can get idea of both price range and quality. Smaller vendors may provide more personalized service, but then larger vendors may offer more selection.
4. Enlist the help of your family and friends. If you know people who have particular talents in music, sewing, decorating or other skills, consider asking them to help you. Make sure you have a good idea of their skills so you aren't surprised on the big day.
5. Host your reception earlier in the day. Lunch menus are equally tasty but cheaper than dinner options. You could even consider a brunch or even a dessert reception. Sometimes buffet options are less expensive than plated-dinner options.
6. Consider a non-traditional venue. Beautiful weddings do not necessarily need to be in a hotel. Consider renting a historic house or museum, country club, botanical park gazebo or even a friend's large backyard. A different setting can make your wedding the talk of the town!
7. Think about having the reception and ceremony at the same site. Guests wouldn't need to find the second site and transportation costs would be reduced.

Tips & Warnings

• Use online tools or wedding budgeting software to organize your information. If you dislike high-tech tools, use a notebook and pen.
• Consider hiring a wedding planner if you can find one willing to work within your budget. Some wedding venues provide a planner if you book with them.
• Carefully read over any contracts you sign with vendors and note any deposits or fees for cancellations and changes.
• Read wedding books and magazines for general advice. Friends or family members who have recently planned a wedding may provide some good tips.
• Think about honeymooning somewhere nearby or someplace not too expensive. It's an additional cost to consider along with the wedding.
• Have fun and don't forget to add your own personal style to the wedding!
• Be aware that having open bar is very expensive and may lead to drunk guests acting irrationally. Also, consider limiting or avoiding the alcohol to keep people from driving drunk.
• Avoid overspending. The average wedding in the U.S. (in 2005) cost over $26,000. Many couples fight over debt and money issues.
• Avoid any last minute expenses. Find out what services are included with your venue and which ones you must provide.
• Never choose a venue that doesn't have a kitchen if you plan to serve an extensive meal.
• Never choose an outdoor venue unless you have alternate location/day in case of bad weather.

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