Wedding Budgeting Tips
Budgeting
Budgeting for your wedding can be incredibly difficult and you may find that to begin with it is more a list of estimates than anything. It is always a good idea when working out your initial budget to over estimate if you are unsure of a price. By doing this you should have a final figure that you will not have to go over. It is vital that you do create a budget as it is all too easy for things to spiral out of control!
Setting a Budget
It is estimated that the average wedding costs around £14,000 - £15,000 but obviously this will depend on how many guests you are likely to have and your venue and reception choices.
Make sure that before you create your budget you know roughly how much money you have and if family are able to make any contributions. There are so many parts to a wedding that people do not factor in and these can often really increase your overall bill at the end, so always allow a little money for extras you may have forgotten.
Remember that you do not need to spend ridiculous amounts of money to enjoy your day. It is not a competition and people will not think badly of you if you have a small scale wedding. Some of the most stylish and unique weddings have been created on a small budget. Think carefully and sensibly about what you are spending your money on and ultimately make sure that you can afford it as you do not want to start your married life together in debt!
Budget Planners
Many websites offer a wedding budget planner which lists everything you may wish to factor in and in some cases a rough estimate for each item. You can then note the cost next to each item to allow you to see how much your dream wedding will cost.
Tips to help save Money
1. Food
Aiming to eat at lunchtime means you can keep the food lighter and simpler to save money. You may also find that people do not drink as much at this time of the day so you will not need to provide as much alcohol.
Using your wedding cake as a dessert can help to save you money. This works really well if you have a chocolate or Victoria sponge cake that can be served with cream and berries.
Many couples opt for a buffet nowadays as this can prove to be significantly cheaper. Depending on where you have the reception you may be able to arrange the catering yourself to keep costs down even further.
2. The Reception Venue
If you are looking to save money and have a lovely but relatively inexpensive day then don’t be afraid to look at a community or village hall as a reception venue. They are often considerably cheaper then a hotel or restaurant venue, but still provide you with everything you need. With some banners, balloons and table decorations you could really transform a simple village hall!
3. Rethink the date
Getting married on a Saturday is the most expensive time, especially in the summer! So why not consider getting married during the week or in the winter; you would be surprised at the saving you can make. Just be sure to avoid bank holidays and special occasions such a Valentines Day.
4. Ask for Help
This is the time to ask friends and family for help. Maybe you know someone who is good at making cakes? Or perhaps several people who could help with the food for a buffet? Do not be afraid to ask people as more often then not they will be thrilled to help.
5. Choose Seasonal Flowers
Many people make the mistake of choosing flowers that are not in season or that have to be imported from abroad. This can add hundreds of pounds to your total bill so think carefully before you choose. Hops and sunflowers for example can make a wonderful display for a summer wedding. |
