Wedding Budget Planning - Let's Get Real

Whew what a weekend we had. We were both planner and guest at a most amazing wedding at Callanwolde Fine Arts and the end result was worth all of the tummy aches.  Goodness it is stressful when you want a friend's wedding to be perfect! 

This week I wanted to talk to you about something else that can be super stressful; your wedding budget.  I think that we get asked more about budgeting than anything else and everyone seems to be the most stressed out about sticking to or coming below that bottom line.  

Champagne tastes on a beer budget - possibly the hardest thing to overcome

The first step to budgeting is understanding what you've got. If your parents are going to give you some start up cash and you and your hubs-to-be are contributing as well, make sure you've got it all laid out on the table (not literally though, you aren't a gangster).  Understand what that means to you.  For instance, are there things that are non-negotiables for you? I have a bride and groom that are HUGE foodies and their menu is just non-negotiable so they are willing to spend whatever it takes to get the food that they want.  I have another couple that feel that way about their band.  What are some of your non-negotiables?

Let's look at some budget tools - we've got one from the knot.com.  This handy budget tool helps you to figure out what you should be spending in each category and lets you override what they suggest which I kind of like.  This way you can make sure that your budget matches those non-negotiables.  

Now, you've got a point from which to jump for your budget, and it is time for me to get on my soapbox, so please excuse me.  My best advice to all of you, no matter how big or small your budget may be, BE REALISTIC.  That is be realistic upfront so that you are not disheartened. What do I mean? If you love a photographer's photos that you've seen in Martha Stewart and you are dying to use them, be realistic when it comes to their pricing.  If you select that photographer, and that leaves your budget a little lower than you thought, revisit some of the other areas of your budet and see how you can make that work.  Remember, all budgets, no matter the type, require balance and revision.


The picture from the top describes it all- beer budget and champagne tastes.  Some times you've got that budget number in mind and it just doesn't reflect what you think you can get.  This couldn't be farther from the truth.  My advice - do your research and be flexible.  Perhaps you can't afford custom linens from the creme de la creme.  But I bet you can find a linen vendor who does great work at an affordable price.  Or perhaps you should compromise on the linens and have your caterer provide them.  Now you've got a little extra money to spend on that super awesome band you heard at a friend's wedding.  The whole idea of budgeting is to stay true to yourself, be honest about what you can spend, and think outside the box.  Ok stepping down from my soapbox now.