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.

Wedding Reception at a Restaurant - Can I do That?

March kicks off a whole new blog set for Estoria Social.  We want to bring you more information, How To's and pretty pictures to whet your appetite! From venue selection to budget planning, more personal behind the scenes looks on "Lifting the Veil" and a lot more from our own brides, we've got the schedule filled with goodies!

This week, we wanted to focus on selecting a venue, inspired by real life conversations with our couples.  We cannot tell you how many phone calls and emails we get from clients asking "what's an affordable, all-inclusive alternative to a classic Atlanta wedding venue?"  The requirements include a place intown, close to hotels and nightlife, filled with good food and an atmosphere sophisticated enough for a wedding with just the right amount of laid-back attitude. Now, let us be the first to say, we  still love the classic spaces throughout our city and beyond, but our clients push us to find something  unique to fit their style, and we must answer the call to think outside the box!

Over the last few years, we've seen restaurants making a huge comeback on the wedding scene. We've heard people ask "A reception at a restaurant - Can I do that?" We say of course you can! Think about it - you've got amazing food, cool atmosphere, alcohol on premises (more about this in our next post),  and all of the necessities to make for an awesome party.  We've put together our top three recommendations for a lovely and sophisticated restaurant reception. 

1. Empire State South  999 Peachtree Street

Via Style Me Pretty

Love an adorable Chef with a unibrow who was also on Bravo's Top Chef?  Empire State South boasts incredible food from Chef Hugh Acheson and is gorgeous to boot.  Its gussied up Southern menu and warm interior reminds us of eating in a farmhouse, without having to escape to the country.  The restaurant has a private event space for rentals, however, the entire restaurant can be yours as well.  The bocce court and covered patio makes for an awesome ceremony space for the non-traditional couple.  This is also an AWESOME space for a rehearsal dinner. 

2. JCT Kitchen and Bar 1198 Howell Mill Rd.

via Kyle Hale Photography

When we walked into JCT Kitchen and Bar, we felt like we found what Estoria Social might look should it be reborn as a restaurant.  Inviting, unpretentious and understated, JCT Kitchen is a bright and cheery restaurant with a phenomenal menu to boot.  Any couple could make this space their own whether it is a laid back farm style, sleek and modern with metallics or completely funky and bohemian like the wedding featured above.  The inner courtyard (which is shared with our next space) makes for the ultimate industrial chic wedding space.  This place sells out like hotcakes when it comes to wedding season, and weddings can only be held on Sunday, so if you love it, book it!

3.  Abattoir 1198 Howell Mill rd.

Via Star Chefs

Via Garden and Gun

Don' let the name worry you, the large open space, filled with natural light, is a part of the Star Provisions Restaurant group.  If good food and good wine are your priorities, then Abattoir is a foodie couple's dream come true.  Big enough for a dance space, the beautifully designed restaurant has its own farm tables, outdoor seating space and amazing wine list.  

So there you have it! Our top three restaurants-to-reception spaces in Atlanta.  On our next blog, we explore the pros and cons of classic and non-traditional wedding spaces.  It might just stop you from chasing your tail!

Dressing up an Affordable Wedding Venue in Atlanta- Vintage Chic Style!

Hi Everyone!


Summer is upon is and with it brings a busy, busy wedding season!  What better way to celebrate than to share with you a wonderful wedding venue at an affordable price.  Last weekend, Maggie and I had the opportunity to show our goods at The Defoor Centre wedding open house.  This fabulous venue contains multiple spaces and boasts a beautiful chapel space for ceremony or reception as well as an equally cool modern reception area flanked by a rotating set of paintings and design. 

Check out the video below to see this gorgeous space!

Defoor Centre Open House June 10, 2012 from James Futch on Vimeo.



We immediately fell in love with the space's ability to take on any design from something simple, clean and modern to dripping in lace, candles and vintage cameos.  All food and beverage is in house and you can even have their bakers design your wedding cake.  It is perfect for the bride looking for a one-stop shop, and one who certainly doesn't want to sweat over every detail.  The best part of it all- it is SO very wallet friendly to brides on a budget- well, aren't we all?!?


For the open house, Maggie and I decided to create a design that fit well in the warm open chapel.  With white walls and dark concrete floors, the building lent itself to a simple elegant design.  We rented our beautiful china and tableware from Four Inch Fold vintage rentals and set out to make a tablescape and background fit for an elegant affair.  Maggie created the most delectable floral arrangements with soft pink peonies, delicate chocolate Queen Anne's Lace and sprigs of white phlox that brought an added layer of charm to the table.  This was such a fun event, and we were so excited to be a part of it!


We'll have lots more for the blog in the coming months...happy wedding season!

Weekend Sales and Giveaways

Oh Friday you are finally here! And you bring with you the promise of LOTS of fun sales and giveaways- thanks!  Let's talk money savings and things we would love to win:

1.  Going Out of Business Sale, Priscilla of Boston- Thanks to a tip from a friend, we've got this one covered.  There is a great sample sale at Pricilla of Boston, 50-75%  off everything as the salon is shutting its doors.  Get your behind in that store for discounted wedding dresses and accessories as well as bridesmaids' apparel and MOB dresses.

(Priscilla of Boston)

2.  Major Fall Discount, David's Bridal- Most styles are on sale with the highest discount at $300 for select merchandises.  There is also a sale on accessories, shoes, and bridesmaids' attire.  Sale ends October 31st.

(David's Bridal)

3. Today Only, Forever Wed Gift Store- Still need to buy a gift for your wedding party? How about favors for your guests? Foreverwedstore.com is offering a 15% discount on all items as well as free shipping today for any purchases.

(ForeverWed)

4.  Online Tessa Kim Giveaway, Wedding Chicks  - Check out this giveaway to one lucky reader! Tessa Kim makes extraordinary hair accessories that really make a statement!  Love this style!!

(Tessa Kim)

5.  Wedding Invitations Giveaway, Style Me Pretty- Love William Arthur's style and so excited to see that one lucky reader will get 100 wedding invitations and reply cards for winning this contest! I just might have to compete for the prize!!

(Style Me Pretty)

Have a fun, savings-filled weekend!

Staying on Budget- Wallet Friendly Ideas

Lately, I have been on a budgeting kick.  Not sure if it is the economy, being a small business owner or realizing, there are so many alternatives to paying retail for  the things I love, but my budget has been on my mind.  Here are five tips to keep your wallet a little fuller and keep you from pulling our your hair as you try to make it all work!

1.  Think outside the box for timing- The most popular times for weddings is during the mid-spring to late fall on Saturday evenings.  What about a lovely cozy January wedding? Or a Sunday wedding? Many vendors will offer a cheaper price for space rental and services from 10-15% off the original price.  Certainly something to consider.

(Via RuffledBlog)

2.  Serve a meal other than a sit down dinner- There are a few ways to cut costs when it comes to meal planning. Instead of  serving a full sit down meal or even buffet stations, many brides are saving money by serving heavy appetizers, tasting menus or even brunch.  Brunch is a great way to get a full meal for less money and you can serve fun drinks like mimosas or bloody marys.  Talk to your caterer about some unique ways to cut corners and think creatively about saving money that won't compromise your style or enjoyment.

(Via RuffledBlog)

3.  Create a signature cocktail- Serving beer and wine instead of a full bar is always less expensive, but what if you still want to have a little something extra?  A signature drink is the perfect way to please your guests, and add a little style.  Were you and your honey sipping something specific when you met or got engaged?  Is there a drink that would fit with your color or theme? Save some dough on a full bar and have a little something fun for your guests.

(via Martha Stewart)

4.  Pick up and coming vendors-  The best way to save a little money is to work with your planner to find some less expensive vendors.  Who are these mystery vendors?  Up and comers in the industry.  There are may up and comers on Etsy, online, and in your other vendors' little black book.  Many new folks are looking for the opportunity to show their chops and build a client base and are pretty flexible with their prices.

5.  Look for local and in season- When planning your menu, flowers or even bridesmaids' gifts, it is best to look for things that are local and food that is in season.  If you are living in Atlanta, and serving lamb chops from Australia, it is likely to get expensive, especially if they aren't even in season.  Your caterer can recommend in season meat and produce, and your florist or decor specialist can tell you the best flowers for the time of year.  Closer, in-season items always cost less.

(via PtitChef)