Break it down for me baby!
(I think that’s a lyric from some 80′s song in my head. . . look out!)
Tips for budgeting! The place place to start.
First you and your fiance should decide what’s most important to you both. Where do you want to focus your efforts? After having helped more than a few brides, I must say that location and photography are items to weigh heavily. Your photos will be memorabilia for your family for generations to come! I LOVE looking at old family photos from weddings and other important celebrations. Think about perusing through grandma’s album and looking at her fabulous clothes!
Questions to start the conversation:
Who do we really want to celebrate with?
Start making your guest list!
Is there something special you’ve done, or something about you that you want reflected in your wedding day?
For example, one of my couples had their proposal in the coffee shop at Powell’s books! While he was popping the question some random guy apparently thought they needed to move over on the bench! So, right in the middle of the proposal, ring in hand, this random man asked them to slide over! (Yo, dude! Can’t you see we’re in the middle of something rather important??) Parenthesis are my thoughts. They just laughed and slid over!
Who is contributing financially?
Are you and your fiance paying for the bulk or are parents wanting to contribute? Knowing these things in advance definitely helps with your planning and stress level!
Here’s an excellent guide to help you with that budget.
Reception (food and spirits, rentals and venue) 40-50%
Flowers 10%
Photography/Videography 10%
Attire 5-10%
Music 5-10%
Planner 10-15%
Misc. (officiant, invitations, licences, gifts, etc.) 10%
Cushion 5-15%
Remember, don’t be so rigid that you stress out about your budget. If you truly fall in love with a place, photographer, or some over the top dress, simply move your numbers around. Your day should reflect you and your fiance, and you should love everything about it!
Great tips! It makes getting married easy. Also a great story about the Powell’s Books proposal.
Well, I know I’m totally in love with my venue (The Historic Balch Hotel) and the more often we visit, the more I know that Greg and I have a really special day coming up in June.
Jessica,
The Balch is blessed to have such amazing friends (‘customers’ just doesn’t sound right). We’re thrilled that you and Greg are getting married here. I think Samantha and I are almost as excited as the two of you.
I don’t know of another hotel who’s clients become guests and those guests become like family. We’re not sure how it happens, but we love that it does!