Whether your dream wedding is going to cost $5,000 or $50,000, you need to stick to a budget. There are easy ways to save money during the planning stages of your wedding. Follow these seven tips to make sure your special day doesn’t blow your budget out of the water:
1. Decide What You Will Spend
Before you can stick to a budget, you have to know what that budget is. Sit down together and decide how much you will spend on your wedding and reception. You should decide if you will fund your wedding on your own or if you will be receiving money from family.
2. Prioritize
After you’ve decided how high your budget will be, make a list of the things you will need for your wedding. Write down how much money you plan to dedicate to your dress, to the reception hall and on decorations. Decide how much you are willing to pay for invitation printing and favors for your guests. Once you start shopping for the best prices, you can adjust the list as necessary.
3. Shop Around
Your cousin’s friend’s brother knows a great deejay. Your friend from the first grade has a friend who is a whiz at making cakes. While these things may be true, be careful you are spending your money wisely. Never agree to work with someone before you get two or more quotes and have checked references.
4. Rent When You Can
Did you know that you can rent wedding decorations and centerpieces? Instead of buying items you will never use again and may just end up throwing away, find out which items you can rent. Renting ensures that you won’t have anything collecting dust in your attic, waiting to be thrown away.
5. Look for a Decorated Venue
The more decorated a venue, the less you’ll have to spend on crepe paper and flowers. Look for a venue that is decorated with chandeliers, mirrors and tables. The less you have to provide on your own, the easier it will be to stay under budget.
6. Recruit Friends and Family
Everyone knows someone who can do something. If you have a baker in the family, you’ve got someone to make your cake. If you have a crafter in the family, you have someone to make your favors. Look for volunteers instead of professionals.
7. Book Early
You will need to hire professionals for some aspects of your wedding. Book early to get the best deal. If you wait until the last minute, you’ll be forced to pay whatever someone asks.
You can easily create a wonderful, lavish wedding on a budget. No matter how much money you have, your wedding day will be a gorgeous one. Follow the tips above to save while you’re still in the planning process.
