Problem:
In today's world wedding planning generally begins with a simple Pinterest search for wedding ideas or an Instagram search for wedding inspiration. While this is not a bad thing, it can be a trip-up in the long run. It tends to be the reason why most couples get trapped into the "shiny object syndrome". You see all the shiny, pretty things available and start picturing your wedding day just like the picture you saw on Pinterest. And so the overspending cycle begins!
Without thorough and proper planning, and no set budget, couples tend to start booking vendors and venues based on what they like and how amazing it will make their wedding day look.
Solution:
One of the first things to do when you start planning your wedding is to work out a budget that suits yours needs, isn't going to break the bank, yet will enable you to have the kind of wedding you've always dreamed of.
Work out a grand total amount to begin with. Then start breaking this total amount into specific parts of your wedding. Remembering that no one wedding is the same, it is important for you to create your own budget breakdowns depending on what matters the most to you. Some possible sections you should consider include:
Venue expenses
Photography & Videography
Food & Drinks
Cake
Music & Lighting
Flowers & Décor
Wedding dress
Hair & Makeup
Wedding stationery
Gifts/Wedding favours
Transportation
Entertainment
Officiant fees
Unexpected costs
Use this budget breakdown as the base from which you work your expenses throughout the planning process. Refer to it every time you book in a vendor and remember to keep things flexible. You can easily remove items, replace items with cheaper options as you see fit. Most importantly don’t forget to update your budget planner after you start paying for all the different items.
Tip: It always helps to keep a better track of the budget if you are using only one bank account to pay for things for the wedding.
And if it all gets to much, reach out to me at www.weddings-bydesign.com for a FREE downloadable copy of our wedding budget planner. I'd love to help make your planning journey stress-free and memorable.
Happy Planning!
~Chandni Shah~