You’ve heard it lots of times before but deciding on and sticking to a wedding budget is essential for planning a stress-free (OK, maybe stress-less!) wedding. But how do you even begin to work out what your budget should be? Read on for our seven questions that you should answer before you choose a number that works for you.
What do weddings in Ireland cost?
Figuring out what you need to spend compared to other weddings in Ireland is probably the trickiest part of setting a budget. Luckily for you, Weddings Online conducts a yearly survey that will help you easily discover the average prices other couples have spent.
Useful link: WeddingsOnline Survey Results
What are the most important elements of a wedding day for you?
Before you chat to anyone else that might become included in your budget, talk with your partner about the most important parts of the day – hopefully you’ll be on the same page. There are no right answers to what is most important, this is a very personal answer. For some the venue and food are most important, for others it could be the flowers or honeymoon. Hopefully your vision of the day will be in alignment and planning will be a breeze!
Useful link: This is What Wedding Guests Actually Car About
What area are you happy to splurge on?
Fancy serving fillet steak instead of roast beef? Orchids over roses in your bouquet? Before you approach any suppliers decide if there are any areas that no matter the cost you simply must have on the day – work forward in your budget from there.
Useful link: Wedding Budget Splurges You’ll Never Regret
Who is paying for your day and how much are they contributing?
These days it’s not unusual for couples to pay for everything, but if you’re lucky enough to have family who want to contribute, now is the time to get them involved. Chats about budget can be awkward but it’s essential you know how much they are happy to put into the pot before you make any budget decisions.
What figure do you want to stick to?
Now you know how much is being added to the wedding pot it’s time to get down to serious counting. What are you able to add? Where is this cash coming from – are you planning to save, etc. Remember that your location and the size of your wedding will play a big part in how much it will actually cost!
How do you plan to divide up your budget?
With a figure down on paper now you should work out how much you are happy to spend on each area. The WeddingsOnline Survey is a great place to discover average prices for each area, but begin with a big list of every element you’ll need. The checklist linked below will ensure you don’t forget anything.
Useful link: Your Complete Wedding Checklist
How will you keep your budget on track?
You’ve taken the time to set a budget now you need to stick to it. Maybe you’re a spreadsheet genius (lucky you!) or maybe simple pen and paper might be more your thing – whatever what you decide to keep a track of it, DO!
Useful link: Wedding Budget Calculator
(Featured image: The Fennells Photography & Film )
