Wedding Budget Basics

When adding up the costs of your wedding, be sure to sit down before viewing the grand total! Weddings can cost a fortune, so if you don’t set a budget and stick to it, you’ll probably end up paying much more than you expected. Here are some helpful budget basics.

Set a Budget

In order to estimate your wedding costs and avoid overspending, you need to set a wedding budget. Be realistic when settling on a figure and make sure that all those that are contributing financially can afford the amount. It’s wise to discuss your estimated budget with all involved, and perhaps try and add 10% contingency fee onto the final figure for those little extra that tend to add up.

Prioritise

When setting up your budget, remember that all your listed items might not be affordable. Therefore it’s important that you prioritise which items are more important and are considered ‘must haves’, compared to those less important items. Important items could include your wedding dress, photography and, of course, your reception. And extra’s that will probably be things like wedding favours and extravagant jewellery.

Keep Your Eye on the Budget

Make sure you stick to your budget! Every bride has a moment of weakness and will run into an item or two that isn’t included in their budget. If it's just a small percentage of your budget, indulge yourself - but don't forget to remove a few stems of flowers from each of those centrepieces you had your heart set on. Your willingness to compromise will be the key to how successful you are at sticking to your budget

Become a Negotiator

If you find yourself wanting something that is not within your budget, negotiate with that wedding vendor and perhaps they can accommodate you and provide you with the product or service at a lower rate. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

Use Those Around You

Don’t underestimate family and friends who may be able to assist. If you have a cousin who plays the violin like a dream, now’s the time to ask for favours and get everyone involved.