Let’s face it—despite the endless decisions to be made and constant stress, wedding planning is FUN. That being said, sometimes paying for it all can weigh down a future bride and make the process less pleasurable. No matter what kind of budget you’re working with, big or small, there will likely always be something outside of your reach. The key is to know how much money you have to spend, and work with what you've got.
Here are some tips I try to keep in mind when my budget stress boils up:
1. Accept that you can’t have it all, but you’ll still get it all. Sound confusing? Here’s what I mean: No matter what your budget is, there will likely be some things you simply cannot afford (unless your last name is Kardashian). For example, I know that to stay within budget, we can only host an open bar for beer and wine, not hard alcohol. We also will likely forgo an engagement shoot in order to spend more money on a great photographer for the big day. Despite the lack of booze at our wedding and not having any engagement photos to post on Facebook, we still get it all. Why? Because we’re getting married and spending the rest of our lives together! I can’t imagine that as we head back to the hotel after our dream wedding, either of us will be saying, “You know, I wish I could have had some scotch…”
2. Prioritize! The wedding budget will be less likely to cause massive anxiety if you know where you’d like the budget to go. Spend some time with your future hub and family members deciding what’s most important for your big day and budget accordingly. Your spending doesn't necessarily have to follow traditional wedding rules!
3. It’s okay if the budget changes…a little. Staying on budget can be a challenge, especially if it’s the first time that you’ve planned a large-scale event. You might budget $300 for cake before actually going to any tastings (when you'd likely realize that’s a little low). Let’s say that the cake actually ends up costing twice what you imagined. You’ll have to find a way to cut $300 from other areas of the wedding. Maybe this means no photo save-the-dates, or finding a DJ who charges slightly less than what you budgeted. As long as you aren’t spending significantly more than the amounts that you allotted for every vendor (DJ, cake, venue, photographer, etc.) then you should be able to recover. We’re smart ladies; we can make it work!
4. Anticipate unforeseen costs. I was extremely proud of the budget that Corey and I came up with. That is, until I realized we forgot to add some key components: We didn’t account for bridal party transportation, wedding bands or invitations (oops). Double-check your list and try to ensure that every item you'll need to pay for is reflected in your total sum. But be prepared to add some things down the line that you probably didn't anticipate in your original cost breakdown.
5. Be comfortable with the money being spent. You’re not going to be able to shake the stress of wedding costs if you’re literally breaking the bank. Can’t afford a $30,000 wedding? Then don’t have one! I know that some people take out loans to ensure their special day turns out just right, but in my opinion, the idea of a loan payment hovering over our heads as we begin our marriage is incredibly stressful. You can make your day personal and amazing no matter what your budget is; you just have to get crafty!
Tell us: How do you prevent yourself from getting overwhelmed or anxious about wedding costs?
—Nikki Stroud
Nikki Stroud is a real bride who is learning every step of the way when it comes to wedding planning. She and her fiancé, Corey Allan (both Ball State alums), will be married in September of 2012 in front of their friends and family in Indianapolis. Glittering ivory lights, exposed plumbing and sleek wood floors depict their romantic yet rustic venue in the Downtown area. The couple hopes to incorporate personal touches to make the celebration truly reflect their relationship.
