Wedding Budget
Creating your wedding budget is the first step when it comes to planning for your wedding. Here are a few tips that will help you with creating your wedding budget and sticking to it.
· Count Your Cash
When it comes to weddings, there are usually 2 sources of money: the couple’s finances (including savings and what can be set aside from their current income) and contributions from parents and loved ones. See how much you can spend towards your wedding from your savings after subtracting your emergency money from it. From your income, you can set aside 10% after subtracting your monthly payments and student loans. Contributions from your parents and loved ones are not a must but it certainly wouldn’t hurt to ask. They could help take the bulk of the load off you.
· Track Your Spending
Research estimates of each costs that you’ll make concerning your wedding. You can then create a spreadsheet with 3 columns labeled estimated, modified and Actual. After this contact each of the vendors you intend to use and the prices on their proposals can go into the modified column. The final amount you pay can then be written on the actual column. This way you can see if you are spending above or below your intended amount.
· They’ll Be Surprises
Read the fine print and make sure the contracts that you sign contain a breakdown of everything you want before you sign it. Confirm that there are no hidden costs as these can add up very quickly and make you exceed your budget before you know it. Pay attention to set up and clean up fees and also overtime costs.
· Charge Responsibly
If you decide to use your credit cards, do not charge an amount that you cannot pay back in 30 days. A card with a generous cashback program is best in this regard too and make sure you map out a repayment plan before you spend.
· Find Ways to Save
Streamline your guest list, have an off-peak wedding, book in time and host your ceremony and reception in the same place. These are great ways to save costs where your wedding is concerned. You’ll thank yourselves when you aren’t battling a huge debt immediately after your wedding.
