Every little girl grows up dreaming about her wedding day and all its delicious little details—the cake, the dress, and, of course, the partner.
The budget or wedding debt is never at the forefront of these daydreams. But, getting married can wreak havoc on your finances if you're not careful.
Keep reading to find our favorite wedding budgeting tips for a wedding that won't break the bank.
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1. Have "The Talk"
You can't create a wedding budget without first consulting the people who will be paying for it. Have an open conversation with your soon-to-be-spouse if it's the two of you footing the bill. Think of it as practice for your household budgeting you two will be doing together soon.
If family members are taking care of some or all the bills, you need to consult with them. It can be an uncomfortable conversation to have, but it's necessary.
Get as specific as possible with the budget. Don't pull a number out of thin air and say that's what you hope to spend on your wedding. Determine how much you'll need for things like photography, videography, the dress, flowers, candles, chair covers, food, and more.
Check out this LGBTQ wedding budget for more tips on planning your budget (whether you're straight or not).
2. Skip the Wedding Planner
If you're searching for planning a wedding on a small budget tip, this is our best piece of advice. Ditch the wedding planner altogether. Though their services can be helpful, it's not a necessary expense to have an amazing wedding.
The average wedding planner package starts at around $1800 and can go higher than $4000. If you and your partner have a wide social circle, ask for their help on the big day.
3. Accept and Request Help
One of our favorite tips for weddings on a budget is to ask your talented friends or family members for help. You can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars by asking for assistance.
Your make-up artist cousin may be able to donate her time to make up the bridal party.
Your friend from college with amazing cake-baking skills can help with dessert.
Your guitar-playing uncle might not be opposed to performing at your ceremony or reception.
You shouldn't assume those who are helping out don't expect anything in return, though. You might want to spot them a few dollars off your budget or give them free drink tickets in exchange.
You should never force anyone into playing a part in your wedding day, either. Make sure anyone you ask for help wants to actually help out.
4. Reconsider the Cake
One of our best wedding budget tips is to reconsider whether a cake is right for you.
Wedding cakes can cost anywhere between $300 and $700. Don't fret if this additional charge is not in your budget. There are plenty of other sweet treats you can serve your guests without breaking the bank.
Donuts, cupcakes, cake balls, or even macarons are great, affordable picks.
You might even consider taking on the dessert yourself if you have the time.
Put Our Wedding Budgeting Tips Into Action
You don't have to go into debt to have the wedding of your dreams. With our wedding budgeting tips, you'll kick your marriage off on the right foot.
Keep reading our blogs for more tips for weddings on a budget.
