Wedding Planning on a Budget

Wouldn't it be nice if we all had endless amounts of money or a celebrity store house full of funds to pull off the most elegant wedding we have always envisioned?  Unfortunately, the honest truth is that most of us are middle class Americans looking to have a beautiful wedding that won't cause us to be bankrupt in the near future.  The question is, how does one plan a wedding on a...brace yourself....BUDGET! Is it truly possible to have the sought after champagne tastes on the brutal beer budget?  ...

Absolutely.  You just have to be smart about your money and be willing to put some effort into your day. After all, it is your day, so it should have some of your flair to it anyway (but that's a whole other post...)

First things, first.  Have a sit down meeting with all those financially responsible with aspects of your wedding.  Using a budgeting spreadsheet specifically dedicated to weddings can be a good starting point.  This type of a tool can help you understand how to prioritize your funds appropriately.  Any starting point is a good starting point with the understanding that some items might have to be shifted later on.

Working with an event planner can help you understand industry standards and trends, adding input into your budgeting priorities.  There are always creative ways to replicate those elegant centerpieces you've seen in the Brides Magazines or the invitations you've coveted from The Knot.  An event planner can help you create those looks at a fraction of the price.  An event planner can also help you negotiate pricing and contracts as you work with vendors and venues who may offer you more than you need in the name of "wedding packaging."  The wedding industry is lucrative because we don't understand all we are getting, or not getting in some cases, for the money we are spending.  You want to make sure you are only paying for what you need.  This will ensure that your budget stays tight and your overall costs low. 

In the end, you are going to spend money on your wedding, but it doesn't have to be more than the first house you and your spouse will purchase.  You are in control.  Surround yourself with the appropriate tools and event planner to make your wedding successful, elegant and creative, so that your day will be one you remember with delight.