Resourceful Tips for the Savvy Bride...Is it possible to have the wedding of your dreams without going into debt?

Yes, but it will require preplanning and discipline. Many brides do it, and you can too!

Most people do not enjoy discussing budgets, and things may get a little tense around the house when determining the ultimate budget...The Wedding Budget. It will be less stressful for everyone involved if good communication and a sense of humor is maintained. The first step is to determine who is contributing to your wedding expenses and how much.

The next step is for the couple to envision what will make their wedding special and meaningful to them. Mindy Weiss, a celebrity wedding planner, says, “No matter how big or small their budget, every couple has to make decisions about their priorities. Here’s one good way to gauge how essential something is: Ask yourself, ‘Will anyone notice if we don’t have it?’”

Know the total amount of your wedding budget and stick to it. You can customize your budget according to the things that are the most important to you....for some couples it is photography, for others it is flowers and decor. Everyone has their own preferences and priorities.

Record ALL of your wedding expenses on a regular basis to help keep you on track. An EXCEL spreadsheet is an easy way to total up your expenses as you make purchases and submit deposits.

How do you know where to start when making a wedding budget if you do not know how much everything will cost? Real Simple Weddings provides a good starting point: Average Wedding Costs in Texas.


Another easy way to calculate your wedding budget is to use the basic guideline below. If you are planning a $20,000 wedding, the percentage listed for each topic will show you the budgeted expense. The percentages are just a guideline, customize them according to your priorities.


Reception                   50%-$10,000
Photography                9%-$1800
Flowers                          7%-$1400
Dress                              6%-$1200
Miscellaneous              6 %-$1200
Day-of Coordinator     5%-$1000
Reception Music          3%-$800
Cake                                3%-$600
Ceremony Music          2%-$400
Invitations                      2%-$400
Ceremony Site              2%-$400
Favors                             1%-$200
Hair, makeup                 1%-$200
Transportation              2%-$400


You have the opportunity to personalize your wedding by creating a budget that will reflect the areas that are the most significant to you as a couple. It IS possible to have a beautiful, unique, meaningful wedding without breaking the bank...and remember that clear communication and a sense of humor will see you through.
EXCEL is your friend!
Karen