5 Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Your Wedding Budget

Money, let’s talk about it. Over the years, we have found money to be the elephant in the room. And many couples struggle to navigate this conversation. Before you pin anything to your Pinterest board or book vendors, we must consider the amount you can invest. With all of the excitement around getting engaged to starting your wedding planning journey, it is easy to get lost and sucked in by all the glitter. Today, we will discuss the Five Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Your Wedding Budget.

1. No wedding budget. 

When creating a wedding budget, you must think about all of the pieces to make your day run smoothly and your must-have moments. After completing your list, you can research how much these items will cost and ensure the checks and balances align. Starting this process without any idea of your wants and the key components you need is like diving into the deep end without swimming lessons -it’s just not wise! The last thing you want to do is say yes to #allthethings and end up overspending. To avoid overspending, be sure to write down (or keep a spreadsheet) how much the item cost and how much you spent.

2. Don’t forget about the added fees.

Some may refer to added fees as hidden fees, but they’ve always been there. Added fees typically apply to your venue and catering and include service fees, taxes, and gratuities. During your consultation, you want to ask if there are any additional fees and how much they cost. Most vendors will give you a rough estimate until your final menu selections and your final guest count.

3. Not controlling your guest count.

On your wedding day, you want to celebrate with your closest and dearest family and friends. The fastest way to go wedding broke is with an extensive guest list. Keep in mind the average cost per person is $350 or more. Some things to consider are reducing the number of people allowed to bring a plus one, limiting the children in attendance, and saying no to the self-inviters. 

4. Not letting go.

We know this one may be a hard one for you, but trust me when I tell you, it is the best thing EVER! Even if you are type A. Oftentimes, couples think they are saving time and money by doing it themselves while also trying to balance work, family expectations, planning the wedding, and spending quality time with one another can all be a bit much. Create an action plan of tasks you are able to complete, any task you will not have time or energy to invest in. Having this list will allow you to see the big picture and where you need help. Now, if you are the person that must do it all, consider handing over the reins a few months prior to your special day; there’s no need to be mentally and physically spent.

5. Not trusting your vendors.

You’ve scoured the wedding blogs, Facebook groups, Pinterest, picked your aunt’s brain, and the list can go on and on for advice and guidance, but you forgot to ask your vendors who work directly in your market. Each of these outlets can be a great resource, but they tend to paint a small picture of expectations. While your vendors love when you come to them with your vision, it is best to be open to new ideas from the professionals in your area. By doing so, your wedding will not look like a carbon copy of the ideas you have pinned or your sorority sister’s wedding from two years ago. Your vendors know how to plan for the unexpected cost that may arise and have a little black book of trusted professionals who will understand your vision to recommend for your wedding day. Just think of them as your secret sauce!

Planning a wedding is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be; it is easier to have a professional by your side to guide you through this process and ensure you stay on track. We’d love to come alongside you and help you create the wedding of your dreams, so please contact us if you’d like to learn more about Magnolia Rose Company and what we have to offer. Happy planning!