Just got engaged, now what?

Congratulations on your engagement! What an exciting milestone. 💒

Planning a wedding can be a complex process, especially when it comes to managing your budget. Here’s a guide to help you create and stick to a wedding budget:

1. Determine Your Total Budget

• Overall Budget: Decide on a total amount you’re comfortable spending. Consider contributions from family or savings.

2. Break Down the Budget

• Venue: Allocate funds for the location where the ceremony and reception will take place.

• Catering: Include costs for food and beverages, often per person.

• Attire: Budget for the bride’s dress, groom’s attire, and any alterations.

• Photography/Videography: Set aside money for capturing the day’s moments.

• Flowers and Decor: Factor in the cost of floral arrangements and decorations for the venue.

• Entertainment: Include costs for a DJ or band.

• Invitations and Stationery: Budget for invitations, save-the-dates, and any other stationery.

• Cake: Don’t forget to budget for the wedding cake and any other desserts.

• Transportation: Consider costs for getting the bridal party and guests to and from the venue.

• Favors: Allocate funds for wedding favors or gifts for guests.

• Hair and Makeup: Include costs for professional styling for the bride and possibly the bridal party.

• Officiant: Budget for the person who will perform the ceremony.

• Miscellaneous: Allow for extra expenses that might come up.

3. Prioritize Your Spending

• Essential vs. Optional: Identify which aspects of the wedding are most important to you and your partner and allocate your budget accordingly.

• Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust your budget if necessary, focusing on what’s most important.

4. Track Your Expenses

• Create a Spreadsheet: Use a spreadsheet or a budgeting app to keep track of your expenses and compare them to your budget.

• Receipts and Invoices: Keep all receipts and invoices organized to avoid overspending and ensure accuracy.

5. Research and Compare

• Get Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple vendors to find the best deals.

• DIY vs. Professional: Consider DIY options for certain aspects, like decorations, to save money.

6. Plan for Unexpected Costs

• Buffer: Include a contingency amount in your budget to cover unexpected expenses.

7. Review and Adjust

• Regular Check-ins: Periodically review your budget and expenses to make sure you’re staying on track.

• Adjustments: Make adjustments as needed, whether that’s cutting costs in one area to accommodate overspending in another.

8. Stick to Your Budget

• Avoid Extras: It’s easy to get carried away with extras and upgrades. Stick to your planned expenses and avoid impulse purchases.

Sample Budget Breakdown

Here’s a rough idea of how you might allocate a $30,000 wedding budget:

• Venue: $6,000

• Catering: $7,000

• Attire: $2,500

• Photography/Videography: $3,000

• Flowers and Decor: $2,000

• Entertainment: $1,500

• Invitations and Stationery: $500

• Cake: $500

• Transportation: $1,000

• Favors: $300

• Hair and Makeup: $800

• Officiant: $300

• Miscellaneous: $1,600

Total: $30,000

Adjust these categories based on your personal preferences and priorities. The key is to plan ahead, stay organized, and enjoy the process!