Budgeting for your Wedding
Tricky subject for some, not so for others….
Where do you start….
Well let me tell you, as a professional wedding/event decorator its my job to ensure you keep to a budget you are comfortable with.
Some simple questions you need to ask yourself:
How much can we afford. Is Mum and Dad helping or just you and your partner… If its the bank from Mum and Dad, ask them what they are willing to spend. Have the conversation, be honest and open about finance. Could trip you up further down the line if you don’t.
Make a budget checklist and stick to it.
Tell as FEW a family and friends about your theme, Colour and décor. Everyone has good intention, but its easy to get messed up with others opinions and thoughts. This is your day remember.
Speak to you intended, get their thought and visions, communication is the key.
Pier pressure.. BIG problem. “My friend had everything, full on, you name it she had it” I have to keep up with her… NO YOU DON’T. Unless you have 30k to blow on one day… Please don’t let this plague you, Your day is going to be as special as theirs was. You don’t have to keep up with the Jones’s, to much pressure and debt will spoil your wedding day and possibly your future.
Guest list. There are people on your list who are there because your life wont be worth living if you didn’t invite them… but your bests mates new partner…. no, not necessary, Its your wedding remember.
If money is tight, then think of an afternoon ceremony and carrying your party into the evening, Have a buffet style reception that can be topped up later for your evening guests.
Fresh flowers or fake. Totally personal choice. You can get some really good fake bouquets nowadays. Fresh flowers are on the expensive side, but if you and your budget like fresh then go for it…
Ushers, Bridesmaids and flower girls… All lovely, but are they necessary? No. Priorities what is important to you…. If you want the full hit, ask them to contribute or even buy their own. You’ll soon find out who your best friends are…
Invitations. Yes obviously… There are some beautiful example’s on sites like Etsy, at reasonable prices, Or if you or your besties are creative give it a go… but do you need Save the date, No. If your guest cant remember the date you are getting married well what Can I say. Menu Cards, NO, To much clutter on the table and added expense, ask your guests their dietary requirements and hand to your caterer, or if family are doing your buffet, let them know, Simple.
Favours. Is it tradition Yes.. Is it necessary no. It’s lovely to give your bridesmaids and best man a token of thanks, but a big expense out of your budget to buy favours for everyone. If you do want to get a little something then (depending on the guest list as in numbers) buy a lottery scratch card… So much fun if someone won… Remember though they have to share the big money with you guys…
Arrival drinks. Really nice idea, but again, expense and not necessary, if its there people will drink it, if its not they will go to the bar..
Wine on the table… Again personal choice, But dose everyone like Red and White wine these day. Sparkling Wine and water for the toast of the Bride and Groom yes, but nobody will miss it, honestly.
Wedding cakes are traditional, and not the usual fruit cake and Icing, that was pre 1980’s, some beautiful talented cake makers around, shop a bit, ask for recommendations. Have cupcakes, or something that you both like. One useful tip, DO NOT leave the cake in a window or warm room, It will collapse, I have seen it so many times. Keep it i a cool room until the last minute.
That’s just a few tips from me on how to budget your wedding. Any questions please get in touch, would love to know what you are planning or struggling with.
www.yourdayyourway.wales info@yourdayyourway.wales 07572224060
