This is the first in the series "What to do first".
We all know the excitement that comes with the idea of planning your wedding. We brides tend to look at all the fun stuff such as dress, decor, visuals and finding the perfect location to say "I do" to the man we love.
Sorry, but I must bring you back to reality, and fast. This series helps you to put into perspective the first things that should be done to start the planning process. I will walk you through all areas in this five part series which will include your budget, guest count, location, style season/time of day.
Today we are tackling the big one, the daunting task of balancing your style with your pocket putting into perspective what you can actually afford. In these tough economic times we are all trying to save a buck where ever possible, follow these tips to keep yourself from breaking your bank.
Identify your guest count and stick to it.
I know it sound harsh, and for some this will be a very hard task especially in Trinidad and Tobago, where everybody knows everyone, but do you really need to invite all these people to your wedding. A good tip is to invite only your close family and friends. Because of how daunting this task is there is a whole segment dedicated to it :)
Serve a signature drink.
Instead of an open bar with every brand of liquor you can think about, serve one or two signature cocktails. This will allow you to control the bar budget, you can also choose to serve wine and soft drinks only. (No I am not crazy)
Ask for help
Don't be afraid to ask for a helping hand. I am not talking about cash favors, but your relatives and friends may be able to assist in more ways than your thought. Does your Auntie have great skills baking, she might be able to assist with the deserts as a wedding gift to you. Maybe some of your friends can assist with a DIY project, make it into a "girls lime" and get the job done. (for my international readers liming is our local slang for hanging out). But I am sure you get the picture, the possibilities are endless.
Hire a Wedding Planner
While many couples are fine with planning their own wedding, in some cases it makes perfect sense to hire a wedding planner. A good wedding planner, though charging a fee of their own can knock off thousands off your wedding budget. I will expand on this topic in another post.
Last and by no means least of all - DO THE MATH. In order to stay within boundaries you have to actually set a budget. identify how much you are willing to spend in total. Once you have set a cap on spending evaluate your priorities. It's always helpful to have a budgeting tool to track your spending. Please remember to set a 10% buffer, miscellaneous, unexpected expenses, what ever you want to call it, it is always there. Trust me no matter how precise you think your figures are there is always the unexpected. As my favorite and top wedding planner, David Tutera, would say 8 to 10 couples go over their budget. don't be in the 8 be in the 2 and have that 10% buffer. Feel free to contact for a copy of my budget spreadsheet to guide you along.
Happy Planning
Litisha
Did you enjoy these tips,
I will love to have your feedback and comments below.
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