I’m back with another edition of the Money & Matrimony series, y’all!
Okay, so last month I talked all about the basics of setting your wedding budget. To me, a budget is basically a financial to-do list. When setting the budget lines I go just a bit further and think of what I need to do to make sure I fall within that budget.
So with that said, let’s talk about not just setting a wedding budget, but how to stick to it!
I’m back with another edition of the Money & Matrimony series, y’all!
To me, a budget is basically a financial to-do list (and I’m a double virgo so I loovvee a to-do list). When setting the budget lines I go just a bit further and think of what I need to do to make sure I fall within that budget.
So with that said, let’s talk about not just setting a wedding budget, but how to stick to it!
How To Stick To A Wedding Budget
Know Your Timeline…Your Entire Timeline
Time is money, folks! Yes, we know it's a cliché, but it holds true when it comes to wedding planning. So, let's zoom out for a moment and look at the big picture. Besides the wedding frenzy, what's happening in your day-to-day life? Work, family, hobbies, Netflix binging—you name it!
Consider this throughout the entire engagement-to-wedding period. Couples usually take around 12-18 months to tie the knot, but you have the power to adjust that timeline to your liking. More time means less pressure, while a shorter timeline can add some adrenaline to the mix.
Take a step back and evaluate how much time you truly have to plan your dream wedding. Do you need a helping hand from a wedding planner or a trusted friend? Can you opt for all-inclusive packages that save you time and money? Explore all your options and make the most of your precious time!
Keep an Open Mind: Kill Those Budget-Busting Darlings!
Ever heard of "don't be afraid to kill your darlings"? Well, it's time to apply this wisdom to your wedding planning. Your budget may have its limits, but that doesn't mean you can't have a magical day filled with love and laughter.
Prepare to make some compromises, dear budget-savvy lovebirds. Be open-minded when making choices between your dream dress and that mouthwatering catering, or the cake that makes your heart skip a beat and a bouquet that screams romance. Balancing your budget may require some tough decisions, but fear not! Solutions are on the horizon, and your perfect wedding is within reach.
Add a Line for Wiggle Room: Embrace the Unexpected!
No one likes going over budget, but let's face it—it can happen. Instead of panicking, let's plan ahead. Prepare yourself for those "uh-oh" moments by adding a little line of defense in your budget—a safety net, if you will.
How much should you allocate for this contingency plan? Well, that's up to you, lovebirds! The Knot suggests setting aside 5% of your budget for unexpected costs. But depending on where your finances stand, you might want to wiggle that line a bit. Trust us; when those "oh, sh!t" moments come knocking, that extra cushion will save the day!
With these wedding budget tips in your arsenal, you're ready to rock your planning journey like a true pro. So, set your own budget, embrace compromises with an open mind, and leave some room for the unexpected. Your dream wedding awaits, and now you have the power to make it happen—without breaking the bank!
