How much is my wedding really going to cost? This is a question I hear a lot. And I wish I had an easy answer to this question, but I don’t. But what I do have are some tips to keep your costs down. 

When I begin the planning process with my couples, I ask them what they are worried about during the planning process. And the answer they give me is ”keeping within the budget.” And I understand that is a big concern, as weddings can cost a good deal of money! I reassure my couples and tell them I am here for them. I am here to listen to them and give them advice on how to wisely spend their money during the planning process. Money is an emotional subject and can be a stressful topic. With well-thought-out plans,  you can plan the wedding of your dreams, with less stress and within your budget. And here is how.

Here are my three tips for saving money during your wedding planning.

1. Keep your guest list in check. 

This number will affect every part of your wedding planning except your dress, your photographer, your officiant, and your entertainment.

Your venue, food, drinks, flowers, tables, chairs, linens, invitations, stamps, day-of stationery, favors, all have a total number associated with them. The larger the number, the higher the cost. So if you really want to focus on the experience of your wedding, rather than the large number of guests attending, think small and invite fewer guests. So start scratching names off the list!

2. Compromise your wish list.

Ask yourself this question, do I really need it or do I really want it? Sure, having a chocolate fountain or ice sculpture would be cool to have, but do you really need it? You and your partner might have to do some compromising here. You may want a fancy car for the grand exit and he may be okay with taking the shuttle back to the hotel. So think it through on what items are important to you both!

3. Prioritize Your Spending.

This is a continuation of number two. Pick two or three things that you absolutely must have and it is okay to splurge on them. But you must keep in mind that you will have to cut back in other areas. You will be hiring an average of eight to ten vendors, and let’s say the average cost is $3,000 per vendor, as you can see it adds up rather quickly! 

Planning a wedding takes time, patience, knowledge, and guidance. You have not done this before, so you really have no idea what the actual costs will be. Trust your wedding planner to give you advice and guide you. There are a lot of decisions to be made during the process and you want to make sure you feel comfortable with your choices and the prices you will be paying for them. Remember, you are hiring professionals for their time and service. They do a lot of work for you to bring you the day of your dreams, the day you will always remember!