Once you get engaged, your next line of thought is about planning your wedding. Budgets are an essential part of putting together a wedding. This is the largest party that you will ever arrange and attention to detail is the key. Whether you have a small, medium, large or unlimited budget, you still need to sit down, plan for the event and come up with a budget you will be happy to spend.
For those who can afford a big and elaborate wedding, getting a wedding planner is one way of having a stress-free wedding, unless you are a worry wart who has to be involved in everything. On the other hand, like most brides, you may want a fabulous day but you don’t have that much to spend and do not want to end up in debt either, then you might want to consider a “do-it-yourself” event. Whichever way you plan to go, sitting down with your spouse and or whoever is helping/paying for the wedding is very important. If it’s you and your spouse, parents, spouse parents etc., take time to do your research, draw up your list, find out approximate prices and then meet with the purse holder to discuss and confirm exactly what you want.
Here’s a list of what to consider when planning your wedding and budget. If you have a wedding planner, they would have to do all of these on your behalf.
Wedding Venue (Ceremony and Reception) It’s usually more cost effective to hold both ceremony and reception in the same venue.
Wedding Gown, Shoes and Accessories/Bridesmaids Dresses – At L’amour Curves we do not believe that you have to spend large amounts of money to ensure you look your best on your special day. L’amour Curves was set up to provide affordable wedding dresses without compromising on the quality or style. At L’amour Curves, we also operate a payment plan to help brides on a budget pay off their dresses in affordable chunks. Please remember to ask the consultant for details. Determine how much you wish to spend on your dress and accessories and bridesmaids’ dresses. Have a contingency plan for a little extra in case the dress you pick for yourself is a bit more than you anticipated.
Catering and Drinks – This will usually be based on the number of people you wish to invite. There’s no need to feel guilty if you can’t have everyone at the ceremony and reception. You and your partner know what you can comfortably afford. It is quite normal to have a small number of people at the ceremony and reception and then invite the rest to the evening party where you can provide a buffet meal.
Photography/Videography – Make sure you check out the photographer’s past work and reviews before deciding who to go with. Also ask for recommendations from family and friends, to compare before making a decision. Remember, you will have these photos for life.
Transport – For bride, groom and bridesmaids. Check out and compare prices for various modes of transportation. Don’t be tempted to go for what friends or other family members have gone for. Base your decision on your budget. Whatever mode of transportation you choose, it will get you to the ceremony and reception but does not need to cost the earth.
Flowers – decide if you want real flowers or silk ones – remember that the real flowers are quite costly. Also, silk flowers nowadays look so real and are recyclable ensuring no waste.
Decorations (including Hire – furniture etc) – You could get an event/party planner arrange the decorations according to your specifications or if you have a large family and lots of friends you could do the decorating yourself. May cost you a little less but the result is usually a very tired and stressed bride worrying about how things look on the big day. Don’t forget to budget for the hiring of furniture as most venues try to increase their revenue by charging separately for chairs, tables etc.
Cake – Your cake can be elaborate or simple, the choice is yours. The more elaborate and with more tiers, the pricier it becomes. Keeping it simple but stunning and tasty is more important.
Entertainment/Music – DJs with experience in playing several genres of music are best as they can cater to everyone’s taste. If your budget can stretch to a live band, then go for it, but remember, they may not have a wide genre range and will always be more expensive than a DJ.
Beauty – It is okay to do your own make-up if you feel up to it. On the other hand, why not enjoy getting pampered, after all it’s your big day and you only want to do this once right? If you decide to use a professional make-up artist and hairdresser, ensure your budget can stretch to it, especially if you intend the service to include your bridesmaids etc.
Stationary – It is much easier and cheaper to buy invitations, favour cards, etc., but if you have a special theme, specific colours and want your unique style, you can have them made using Canva, making sure you have proof read it before you send it to print.
Grooms/Groomsmen Attire – Always consider buying the grooms suit and hiring the suits for the groomsmen, that way it should cost you less than having to buy them.
Wedding Rings – The rings are significant as a sign of the commitment to one another, but do not need to be the most expensive in the jeweller’s shop. Ensure you and your spouse agree on the budget for the rings and try as much as you can to stick to it.
Registrar Fees – These fees are usually expected to be paid up front to secure your date. They are also not negotiable.
Favours & Gifts – These are usually special token items and do not need to be expensive. Unique little gifts are great at reminding guests of your wedding.
Honeymoon – This is your time alone with your spouse after all the months of preparing for your special day. Planning the honeymoon trip together based on where you would both love to visit, will determine how much you spend.
Lots of newlyweds’ stress and worry about starting their married life in debt. To avoid this, budget wisely, and try as much as possible to stick to it. But most of all, relax and enjoy your special day xx.