Your wedding is less than twelve months away. You’ve never done this before (or maybe you have) and you don’t know where to begin. You’re afraid you can’t afford a wedding. Don’t panic. Take a deep breath. You can have the wedding of your dreams. First you’ll need to prepare a wedding budget before you spend any money. I’ve prepared a list of tips to help you get started. Then, go for it!

Talk about it

Communication is the key to evading financial stress while you plan your special day. Did you save money already? Do you have a savings plan in mind? Maybe you prefer a simple wedding and want to use your savings as a down payment for a home? Maybe your partner wants the equivalent of a royal wedding? Take your time, talk to each other, and determine how much you’re willing to spend on the wedding. Be honest and you’ll avoid starting your marriage in the red. 

Make a List 

Create a spreadsheet of items/services for the wedding. List the items in order of priority and wishes. The “wish” items are extras you’d like to have if you’re still within budget or someone offers to take care of it for you. I recommend allocating approximately 50% of your budget for the reception venue, catering and the cake.  

Below is a sample spreadsheet for you listing some of the more traditional wedding services.  You can tailor the list according to the type of wedding you want. 

Consider some of the following:

• Traditional or non-traditional 

• Simple or Elaborate 

• Destination wedding 

• Theme  

• Full bar

• DJ, Band, or Both

Maybe you thought about taking lessons for your first dance, adjust your budget to include dance lessons. Leaning toward a Caribbean theme, consider steel pan players for your cocktail hour — add it to the budget. 

Start your research when your list is ready. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. Vendors appreciate endorsements and may offer you a discount. Use the money you save on your honeymoon or something else on your wish list.

Consultant

Wedding consultant? I say it depends. I personally enjoy research and event planning so we passed on hiring a consultant. If you have the time, its possible to plan your own wedding and just hire a wedding coordinator for the special day. Watch movies, wedding reality shows, and attend bridal expos and a few weddings before your big day. Make notes of what you like and dislike, even things you didn’t consider. Have fun planning. 

However, if you intend to get married in Aruba or Paris, a wedding planner could become your best friend. Even with a hired consultant, remember it’s your day. Don't settle for something you don’t want. It’s their job to make sure you’re happy.

Write it Down

Keep a notebook close by. Jot down quotes, the person you spoke to, get business cards and tape them beside your notes, and take pictures. Create a separate page for each item/service on your list. Save all of the receipts and invoices in a folder. 

Whatever you decide, keep track of every cost (no matter how small). Couples often forget to include stamps in their budget. Every little bit adds up, including tips. 

Consider opening a separate bank account for the wedding expenses and use it to pay for the wedding vendors. It’s a great way to monitor your spending.

Don’t miss important payments. Late payments may include a surcharge that you don’t need. Add payment reminders and deadlines to your online calendar.

Date Nights

Don’t forget each other in the process. Add in a few date nights before the wedding day. Keep it simple, remember you’re on a budget. Enjoy each other’s company away from the barrage of questions from family and friends. Destress and talk about anything but the wedding plans. Remember why you fell in love. 

Enjoy the Journey

The unknown can create stress. Creating a plan in advance eliminates the unknown factor. Planning the wedding should be as much fun as the wedding itself. Take plenty of pictures as you plan. You’ll thank me later. 

Congratulations and happy planning.