Planning a wedding is tough enough on a bank account and with this economy, even harder. We want you to know that we understand. Planning a budget friendly wedding does not mean you need to head for City Hall. Here are a few suggestions for having the wedding of your dreams and keeping that change in your pocket.
1. Set a budget and set it before contracting any vendors. Once you do, evaluate your priorities and determine spending for each category. Remember to leave a buffer of about 10% in your overall budget. About 8 out of 10 couples exceed their budgets – don’t be one of them. Also be sure to leave room for a Wedding Coordinator. You may not have it in your budget for a full service coordinator, but having someone present on the day of the wedding to make sure everything goes as you have planned is important. You have worked for months to plan this event, get a professional to run the day so that you can enjoy your efforts. It is worth it!
2. It seems these days that everything is on sale, from wedding dresses and accessories, to any and all vendor services. You hold the cards to negotiate. Compare prices for bridal gowns and shop around. See who can offer you the best deal, or even sell you the sample dress. The same goes for other vendors. Maybe ask your caterer if they will throw in the linens. It may not seem like much, but the little things add up quickly. Be assertive and understand the position you are in.
3. If the location is chosen wisely, a destination wedding may actually save you money. Hotels and resorts want your business and when you are bringing them a guaranteed number of guests, they will want to work with you. Look into wedding packages, but be aware that they may also offer services a-la-cart that might be the most advantageous to your wallet.
4. Think outside the box. Forget traditional ways and come up with some of your own. You can skip that 4-course meal and replace it with a heavy hors d’oeuvres reception. Ditch the top shelf bar and focus on a signature cocktail. If it is tasty and clever, your guests will be impressed. Plus, you pay for every open bottle on a fully stocked bar. This eliminates your number of open bottles at the end of the evening.
5. Let the experts be the experts. Be direct and firm with vendors about your budget. It is their job to stay within it. When attending meetings ask them what they can do within your parameters. Often time you get more for your money by setting a budget than from going in with an open or negotiable budget. If you are working with reputable vendors, they will be able to offer lots of great and creative suggestions for stretching your dollar.
Remember, There is no need to be embarrassed about having a budget. Vendors will respect you for having one. It makes their job easier and clearer. Just be honest about the limitations you want set.
