Let's Get Real!

Brides typically struggle when trying to put together a figure for their wedding budget because they have no clue what each of the elements cost.  Parents try to offer advice based on their wedding with an allowance for inflation.  The internet can be a great resource, but can quickly become overwhelming.  At Details, we offer our clients resources that indicate averages for various wedding elements.  So how do you accurately determine a budget for your wedding?

1. Don't spend more than you can afford.  This may sound simplistic, but you would be surprised at the number of brides and parents who overextend themselves when it comes to that special day.  A beautiful memory can be created on any budget, you may just need to adjust your expectations a bit - the string quartet may get crossed off.

2.  Seek a planner.  And I'm not just saying that because that's what we do : ) .  Not all planners will walk you through the budgeting process and help you make the proper financial decisions by providing options as well as spreadsheets comparisons.

3. Take in percentages with a grain of salt.  Most resources will tell you that photography should average approximately 7-15% of your total wedding budget.  Hmm, maybe.  Percentages and averages are fuzzy characters and can be misleading.  For instance, in our photography scenario, a quality, basic photography package will be a minimum of $1500.  So if a bride with a $10,000 budget books that basic photography package for $1500, she has just used 15% of her wedding budget on that element.  Another bride can have a budget of $30,000 and decide to book the same basic $1500 package and she has only spent 5% of her budget for the exact service.  Bride A may see the average percentages and think that she can get photography service at the low range - 7%- since she has a limited budget.  IF she finds a photographer for $700 she is going to sacrifice either quality of image, quality of service, or quantity of product or, all of the above.

4.  Consider what is most important to you.  Details has each of its potential clients complete a 5 page Bridal Questionnaire that not only helps us understand your wedding expectations and budget, but also has you rank various wedding elements in order of importance.  This information helps us adjust your budget numbers to appropriately divide your finances.

5.  Speak with all party members involved to delicately inquire as to how they can assist with your special day.  Most elements are better left to the professionals, but mom and pop can be great financial resources : )

6.  Before or shortly after your first meeting with your planner, determine what items must be included in the budget given to her.  For instance, will the cost of the rehearsal dinner need to be considered or is coming from a different purse?  What about the wedding dress?  Honeymoon?  Rings?  A planner wants to understand what her real working number will be.

7.  Consider fixed costs vs variable costs.  Some elements are fixed costs in that they are not going to cost you any more if you invite 2 guests or 200.  Photography, some venues, the dress, the planner, and the band are a few examples of fixed costs.  Other costs are variable and allow you opportunity to adjust the impact on your bottom line based on the number of guests you invite or the number in your bridal party.  Floral, linens, food and beverage are a few examples.

Here's a quick peek at bottom line sample pricing in mid-sized Midwestern cities:

Wedding cake - $3.50 a slice and up

Officiant fee - $400 and up

DJ service - $1200 and up

Photography service - $1600 and up

Elements such as food and beverage, floral and venue rental vary greatly depending on your selection.

~ Jami