How To Create a Wedding Expense Checklist

You've set the important date. The day you are dreaming of is quickly becoming a reality. Unlike dreams, however, reality means that you actually have to budget for the wedding of your dreams. It can be confusing to decide where to even start or, more importantly, how to start. While budgeting for a wedding is certainly not a short and easy process, it is a manageable task that will give you more peace of mind on the day of your wedding. So grab a notebook and pencil and your fiance - yes, include your fiance - and let's get started.

Instructions

1. Decide what kind of wedding you will have. Is the ceremony going to be a large, black-tie affair? Do you prefer to keep it simple and elegant or casual? You must answer these questions before you can even think of starting your expense checklist.

2. Shop around. With the style of the wedding party attire in mind, shop a few stores and boutiques. Take your notebook with you and write down the prices of wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses, tuxes and suits at each place. When you get home, sit down with your fiance and fill out a pros and cons list for each that includes price, quality and practicality (few bridesmaids want the expense of a dress they can only wear once). After you've done a thorough check, you are free to shop with more knowledge of what you really want and can afford.

3. Include the cost of invitations in your checklist. Wedding invitations can cost as little as a few cents per invite if you make them yourself to $10 each if you have them created by a calligraphy artist. Include in the checklist the font, paper color, formality and size you like, as well as the cost.

4. Pick your cake and eat it too. When making a list of the bakeries that will create your wedding cake, also check prices from grocery stores. You may be surprised at the quality you can get for a fraction of the price of an independent decorator's services. One of the Publix grocery stores in Florida had such a talented cake decorator on staff that couples would drive a hundred miles so that she could create their dream cakes.

5. Decide what kind of reception you will have. Are you offering a sit-down meal or simple appetizers? Will you need a banquet hall or can you settle for someone's backyard? Make a list of caterers, restaurants, banquet halls and country clubs that provide catering services. With your guest list in hand, decide how many courses you can comfortably afford to offer and if you will have an open bar that guests are responsible for themselves. Choosing chicken over steak can save you hundreds of dollars, and simple appetizers over a full-course meal can save you even more.

6. Decide on the music. Do you want a string quartet at your wedding? Make a list of the music you want played before the vows, for your wedding march, just before you say "I do" and so forth. Then make a list of people you know who may offer these services for little or no cost or, at the very least, can steer you in the direction of some gifted musicians. Visit the music department at the local college to inquire about talented students and their prices for events. Students are usually eager for a chance to perform for cash and experience.