The average $25,000 wedding includes all kinds of unnecessary costs for a budget bride, like flower petals, A La Carte planning services, a DJ AND a live band! I think I'll stick to a lower cost budget. Here are some things you'll want to consider when planning your budget. Keep in mind you don't need it all.
- Attire & Accessories
- Dress Accessories
- Veil
- Groom's Attire
- Wedding Dress
- Beauty & Spa
- Hair Service
- Makeup Service
- Manicure & Pedicure
- Entertainment
- DJ or Live band (Reception)
- Musician, Soloist (Ceremony)
- Flowers & Decor
- Boutonnieres, Corsages
- Bridal Bouquet
- Bridesmaids Bouquets
- Ceremony Decor
- Flower Girl Flowers
- Reception Decor
- Reception Centerpieces
- Invitations
- Ceremony Programs
- Engagement Announcements and/or Save the Dates
- Guest Book
- Postage
- Invitations & Reply cards
- Reception Menues
- Table name & Escort/ place cards
- Thank you notes
- Gifts & Favors
- Gifts for Attendants
- Gifts for Parents
- Tips (for all wedding services)
- Wedding favors
- Bride/Grooms Gifts
- Jewelry
- Wedding bands
- Photography & Video
- Engagement Session (most of the time included in your wedding photog package)
- Prints
- Album
- Planner/Consultant
- Decide if you want a full service planner to help with every detail or maybe a day-of consultant
- Transportation
- Venue, Catering & Rentals
- Ceremony Location
- Ceremony Officiator
- Reception Location
- Reception Food
- Reception Bar
- Honeymoon?
I don't plan on including several things off this list. Remember to enlist the help of friends and family member that can help cut costs with they're handy DIY skills or contacts. Maybe your uncle knows a great photographer that would be willing to give you a discount, or your mom can make gifts for your girls. Cutting costs can take a little creativity but if I can do it, so can you!
What are you eliminating to keep within your budget?
You are right...every bride is an individual and wants her wedding to speak "her language". As for me, I would splurge on my flowers! I just love real flowers ...nothing like them! So I would cut back on something else...I don't know if I would want a video. It would add to my nervousness!
ReplyDeleteOne single flower can make a space elegant and beautiful..blossom and bloom!