How to Budget for a Wedding

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming and stressful. Arrangements for the big day can often spiral out of control for couples who are planning their first wedding. Most people have no idea what catering, venues, or flowers cost these days, so deciding on a budget can be nerve wracking. Deciding on a total budget and sticking to it can relieve much of that stress and keep expenses from becoming exorbitant.

Spend within Your Means

Throwing a wedding that will put you in debt is no way to start married life. The only people who have to approve the wedding plans is the couple. Do not be pressured by family and friends to do something elaborate if something simple is what the couple desire. Look at how much money has been saved for the event and let that be the budget.

Breaking It Down

Once that figure is determined, it is easier to break it down into separate components. There are all kinds of rules and suggestions professionals make for how much money to spend on the venue, food, decorations, dress, and flowers. These are typically presented in percentages.

The average amount for flowers, for example, is ten percent of the overall budget. Some planners indicate that ten percent also needs to be allotted for music, photography, and attire, while the venue and food accounts for a staggering fifty percent of the budget. Figuring three percent for the transportation, the ceremony, and the rings, along with two percent for favors and gifts, the budget is already up to one-hundred and one percent. That leaves no money for hair and makeup, a rehearsal dinner, or anything else.

A Realistic Approach

Wise couples will do a bit of research to get an idea of what components will realistically cost based on actual prices. They can then establish priorities and decide where to reduce costs. Start with venues. Go online to determine what suitable venues are in the area and what each charges for the use of the ballroom, catering, and servers.

For a realistic average of what flowers actually cost, visit the website of a Tampa wedding florist. The break down is clear and real. One example is the average pricing for the bride and groom, twelve attendants, altar or ceremony flowers, and eight petite cocktail table arrangements.

That is useful and detailed information. Blog posts include steps to make homemade boutonnieres, and advice for Choosing your wedding centerpiece. If flowers are not a priority, consider minimal bouquets or just flowers for the bride.