A Stellar Wedding on a Budget

Congratulations, you're getting married! You have started planning for your special day, but the word "expensive" has come to mind, often. Figuring out your wedding budget is not easy, and it's likely to be one of the most significant events you ever throw. When it comes to saying "I do" it doesn't always have to be expensive, doing a little bit of research can go a long way towards planning the perfect wedding on a budget. Here are some of our best tips to plan your dream wedding without breaking the bank and losing sight of the ultimate goal - sharing your life together as husband and wife!

What's Important to You?

It may seem like every idea you have planned is essential to make your wedding day perfect, but splashing out on this one big event is not something that you want to financially regret in time to come. It's better to focus on what is most important to you and choosing a few features that are your must-haves that will make for some unforgettable memories.  

Let's Talk About the Budget

It's so easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of planning, and the budget easily gets lost and pushed aside. Laying the groundwork early with everyone financially contributing to the wedding about how much can be spent is a lot easier than continuing to pay for your big day for many years after. Collating a spreadsheet or using an App to track your spending will help keep your budget on track and be modified before you've overspent.

Limit Your Guest List

Guest lists seem to grow of their own accord, and before you know it, your cousin's brother's uncle is on the list of invitees. 

When considering your guest list, make sure your closest family and friends are top of the list and consider taking less significant guest off. Just by reducing your list by 15 people, is easily a saving of $1,300.

Hire a Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner is a great way to keep your budget on track, and they help alleviate the stress of planning a wedding too. Working daily with brides and grooms gives planners an inside track on where to save money and are adept at finding venders that are within your budget range.

Prepare for Surprises

Our last tip is one that long term can save a lot of money - prepare for surprises. Sometimes added expenses seem to come from nowhere, especially if you haven't read the fine print. Often these additional costs haven't been included in the budget and can consist of cleanup costs, vendor transportation, or something as simple as envelope stuffing. 

A Final Word

It is essential not to forget your long term goal, spending your life together as husband and wife. It's possible to have a happy and wonderfully memorable and special day, without being overwhelmed by spending a lot of money. Most of all, enjoy your day!

By Allison Winchester