I get it! You’re excited to start planning your dream wedding, dress shop, try fabulous food, look at stunning venues, and all the fun things! But before you get ahead of yourself, setting some guidelines and having conversations about your wedding budget is essential.
I’d be lying if I said that creating your wedding budget is a breeze, but that’s where I come in! I’ll help you set your budget up for success and feel manageable.
Here are 6 mistakes to avoid.
Mistake #1: Not creating a priorities list for your wedding budget
Try to think of your budget as your “hopes and dreams” list rather than the things you think you should prioritize! For example, if you envision a hanging floral installation, that should be top of your list rather than videography if video is not a huge priority to you and your partner.
Mistake #2: Not outlining how family money is being allocated
If a family member is contributing to your wedding budget, let them know precisely what they are contributing to (i.e., photographer) if you are not concerned about them having an opinion about it. Here’s an example: if you want to have a late-night snack, but your family is against this idea, let them know their funds are going towards photos. This will eliminate that guilty feeling that you HAVE to listen to their late-night snack opinion since they’re not paying for that part of the wedding. Get your breakfast tacos or sliders!
Mistake #3: Forgetting to budget for miscellaneous expenses
Are you budgeting for your mani/pedi the week of your wedding? Or that sunless pre-wedding spray tan? What about any gratuities on your wedding day? Pssst… when we work together, I’ll give you a list of exactly who you need to tip for your big day!
Mistake #4: Not purchasing event insurance
When it comes to your wedding day, don’t forget about event insurance. It may seem like it isn’t worth it, or it’s just another $200 you “should” spend. However, remember that you’re spending a lot of money, and having a safety net is an excellent piece of mind! I love using WedSafe – be sure to check them out.
Mistake #5: Committing to a vendor before understanding the costs of everything else in your wedding budget
When planning, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and feel like you have to sign a contract or pay a deposit right away. It’s okay to look at multiple vendors simultaneously (i.e., venue, photographer, catering, etc.) and then adjust your decisions based on your budget. You don’t want to become house-broke with your venue before considering all options!
Mistake #6: Viewing a wedding planner as an expense and not an investment
Your wedding planner is an investment, not just an expense. They are there to eliminate your stress, give you confidence throughout your planning process, and provide you with a more enjoyable time instead of spending it researching! Most importantly, you’re investing in your emotional well-being! Check out this blog on what to know before hiring a wedding planner.
Much goes into creating your wedding budget and there are many items to invest in for your wedding day. So set yourself up for success and enjoy the moment!
Want to learn more helpful wedding planning tips? Schedule a call with me today, and we can start wedding planning together! If you’re curious about the current costs of an Austin, TX wedding, check out the specs here.
