The “B” word. Every wedding couple’s nightmare.
You’ve heard the horror stories…
Couples spending 2,3,4 times more than they initially budgeted…..
Seems inevitable right?
Well it’s not.
In this article, we are going to go over simple strategies to ensure that you actually stick to your wedding budget while getting everything you deserve!
As a wedding planner, one of the most important parts of my job is helping couples maintain their budget. The key is planning ahead and managing expectations.
But even with the best intentions, it’s safe to say that almost all couples go over budget a little.
Here are some things you can consider doing to help you keep your spending in check while getting the things you wan
1. Get clear on your priorities and be specific about numbers.
Setting a solid foundation for your wedding planning includes identifying your priorities and your wedding values. Your decisions should be based on you and your partners shared vision and values.
2. Determining Accurate figures
When putting together your budget, you should be clear on where the money is coming from. If family members are contributing, ask to what extent. If you’re covering all costs, what is the maximum amount you are willing to spend?
Be specific from the beginning in order to come up with an accurate final figure, manage expectations and put your priorities first.
3. First thing’s first
Get exact pricing for vendors & services that will take up a larger percentage of your overall budget – the venue and catering are some examples.
Before splurging on that A-MAZING videographer from Australia, you might want to double check to make sure you’ve accurately estimated your catering costs.
4. Consider Hidden Wedding Costs & Extras
Knowing how much everything costs from the very beginning will save you unnecessary final-stretch-stress and guarantee your budget can actually cover it all. Make an extensive list of wants, needs and expectations for each vendor and ask for detailed pricing.
5. Avoid Inspiration overload
The internet is overwhelming and there are literally millions of “amazing” things that you think “need” to ensure that you day is a success. Once you’ve found the welcome sign you absolutely love – don’t look at any others! Your friend Kate had the cutest personalized macaroons for guests? Doesn’t mean that you need to!
Try to avoid peer pressure.
Those “small” add-ons that you “need” can add up quickly, so use your best judgment and try not to get caught up in the details that won’t actually matter in the long run.
6. Plan to go over your budget
Yes, it’s true – you will most likely go over budget and that OK as long as you’ve planned for it! Once you have calculated your costs, add an “extras envelope” to your spreadsheet. I advise adding 3-4% of your budget for unforeseen costs. This might include
* Weather related expenses – umbrellas for a rainy day or parasols for the heat
* Planning hiccups or errors – you made a spelling mistake on your menus and they need to be reprinted
* Guest related – Aunt Linda doesn’t have Euros and her taxi doesn’t take a card
Getting realistic pricing and managing expectations from the very beginning of planning is the key to building a solid wedding budget and actually sticking to it!
Want more budget advice? Grab this comprehensive budget spreadsheet to get started on budgeting your wedding in France!
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