Wedding Budget 101
Creating your budget is one of the most crucial parts of planning your wedding. Although it may be a bit scary, you can't start planning without a solid budget. This is the best way to keep from overspending on your big day.
Start with the basics.Make sure you have the must-need items first on the list -- flowers, attire, food, ceremony/reception costs. Then work down the list for the less necessary items.
Write down everything.To keep your budget up-to-date it's very important to write down EVERY penny you spend on your wedding. A few dollars here and a few dollars there can add up after a while.
Plan ahead.Write down everything you anticipate spending money for. Make a chart with estimated cost and the actual cost once the bill is paid.
Make a payment schedule.Vendors like to be paid at particular times. As soon as you get a contract, keep a document with the due dates to pay your vendors.
Choose areas with a little wiggle room.After your budget is planned, highlight areas that may not be as important as other areas. For example, you may put money in your budget toward a videographer but it isn't something you HAVE to have. Then if you find a reception spot that's more than your allocated amount, you can lose the videographer and put the money toward the location.
Leave a little extra spending money.It's always better to give yourself a little extra money in the planning phase than to go over budget. There are a lot of hidden expenses that can add up and that may not be in your budget.
