How to set your wedding budget

Wedding bells are ringing, the love of your life has finally proposed, and you can’t wait to say, "I do!" But before you start browsing Pinterest for wedding dress inspiration and pinning hundreds of floral arrangements, it’s important to tackle one of the most crucial aspects of wedding planning: the budget.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Budgets are boring and unromantic,” but let me tell you, they can also be your saving grace. No one wants to start their marriage off with a mountain of debt, so setting a realistic wedding budget is key. And don't worry, it doesn't have to be a total buzzkill.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the 8 essential questions you need to answer to set a wedding budget that works for you and won’t break the bank.

What’s the Magic Number?

Before you start booking vendors and choosing your dream venue, you need to determine your overall budget. How much do you want to spend on your wedding? And how much can you realistically afford? Be honest with yourself, and remember that you’ll also need to factor in any additional costs like travel, accommodations, and wedding favors.

Who’s Paying?

Now that you know how much you want to spend, it’s time to figure out who’s footing the bill. Are your parents contributing? Are you and your fiancé covering everything yourselves? Will you be receiving any monetary gifts from relatives? Knowing who’s paying will help you allocate your funds and avoid any awkward misunderstandings down the line.

What Are Your Must-Haves?

Every couple has different priorities when it comes to their wedding day. For some, it’s all about the food and drinks, for others, it’s the entertainment. Take some time to sit down with your fiancé and make a list of your non-negotiables. This will help you allocate your budget accordingly and make sure you don’t overspend on things you don’t care about.

How Big Is Your Guest List?

The size of your guest list will have a significant impact on your budget. More guests mean more food, more drinks, and potentially a larger venue. So, before you start sending out save-the-dates, make sure you have a rough estimate of how many people you’ll be inviting.

When and Where Will You Tie the Knot?

The time of year and location of your wedding can also impact your budget. Certain venues may have different rates depending on the season, and destination weddings can come with additional travel costs. Keep this in mind when deciding on your wedding date and location.

What’s Your Style?

Are you dreaming of a black-tie affair or a casual backyard wedding? Your wedding style can also influence your budget. Formal weddings often come with a higher price tag, while more laid-back weddings can be more affordable. Decide on your style early on to help guide your budget decisions.

Do You Need a Wedding Planner?

Wedding planners can be a huge help when it comes to staying on budget. They can negotiate with vendors on your behalf, help you find affordable options, and keep you on track with your spending. But, of course, their services come at a cost. Consider hiring a wedding planner if you think it will help you save money in the long run.

What’s Your Backup Plan?

Finally, it’s important to have a backup plan in case things don’t go as planned. Unexpected expenses can pop up, or a vendor may need to cancel last minute. Make sure you have a contingency plan in place so you don’t have to dip into your savings or go into debt.

One last tip? Get creative! There are plenty of ways to cut costs without sacrificing the quality of your wedding day. DIY decorations, opting for a buffet instead of a plated dinner, or even hosting your wedding at a non-traditional venue can all save you money.

Setting a wedding budget may not be the most exciting part of wedding planning, but it’s definitely an essential one. By answering these 8 questions, you’ll be well on your way to planning a wedding that’s beautiful, meaningful, and most importantly, affordable. Cheers to the happy couple!