How to Budget and Save for Your Wedding: A Practical Guide

Planning a wedding is such an exciting journey, but let’s be real – it can feel overwhelming when you think about the costs. Don’t worry, though! With a solid plan and some clever saving strategies, you can have the wedding of your dreams without the stress. Here’s how you can figure out your wedding budget and make it work for you.

Step 1: Determine Your Overall Budget

The first thing you need to do is figure out how much you can spend. Think of this as the foundation for everything else.

1. Assess Your Finances:

   • Look at your current savings.

   • Decide how much you can save every month leading up to the wedding.

   • Don’t forget to factor in any help from family or friends who might chip in.

   Example: Let’s say you already have $20,000 TTD saved up, and you plan to save $5,000 TTD a month for 12 months. Plus, your family is contributing $20,000 TTD.

   • Current savings: $20,000 TTD

   • Monthly savings: $5,000 TTD x 12 = $60,000 TTD

   • Family contribution: $20,000 TTD

   • Total Budget: $20,000 + $60,000 + $20,000 = $100,000 TTD

     
     

2. Set Priorities: What’s most important to you? Maybe it’s a stunning venue, delicious food, or jaw-dropping florals. Spend more in those areas and adjust other parts of the budget accordingly.

Step 2: Break Down the Budget

Now that you’ve got your total budget, break it down into categories. A common breakdown looks like this:

• Venue: 15%

• Catering: 30%

• Attire: 10%

• Florals and Décor: 25%

• Photography/Videography: 10%

• Miscellaneous (invitations, favors, etc.): 10%

  Example: For a $100,000 TTD budget, here’s how it could look:

  • Venue: 15% of $100,000 = $15,000 TTD

  • Catering: 30% of $100,000 = $30,000 TTD

  • Attire: 10% of $100,000 = $10,000 TTD

  • Florals and Décor: 25% of $100,000 = $25,000 TTD

  • Photography/Videography: 10% of $100,000 = $10,000 TTD

  • Miscellaneous: 10% of $100,000 = $10,000 TTD

Step 3: Save Strategically

Saving for your wedding doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Here are some tips to make it easier:

1. Open a Dedicated Wedding Savings Account: Keep this separate from your regular accounts so you’re not tempted to dip into it.

2. Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Think about small sacrifices, like skipping that extra coffee run or holding off on a big purchase for now. It all adds up!

3. Automate Your Savings: Set up an automatic transfer into your wedding account every payday. That way, saving becomes a no-brainer.

   Example: If you’re saving $60,000 TTD in 12 months, break it down: $60,000 ÷ 12 = $5,000 TTD per month.

4. Track Your Spending: Use a spreadsheet or an app to make sure you’re sticking to your budget. Trust me, this will save you headaches later.

Step 4: Maximize Your Budget

Here’s where you can get a little creative to stretch your dollars:

1. Negotiate with Vendors: Don’t be shy! Many vendors are open to customizing packages or offering discounts.

2. Choose Non-Peak Dates: A weekday or off-season wedding can save you a ton.

3. DIY When It Makes Sense: Things like invitations or small decor pieces can be fun to make and save you some cash.

4. Repurpose Items: Use your ceremony flowers for the reception, or borrow decor from friends. It’s a win-win!

Step 5: Build an Emergency Fund

Unexpected costs can pop up, so it’s smart to have a little cushion. Set aside 5-10% of your budget for those “oops” moments.

Example: If your budget is $100,000 TTD:

• 5% of $100,000 = $5,000 TTD

• 10% of $100,000 = $10,000 TTD

Final Thoughts

You’ve got this! Budgeting and saving for your wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear plan and a little discipline, you’ll pull off a celebration that’s as fabulous as your love story. And remember, the most important thing is marrying the love of your life – everything else is just icing on the cake.

Follow me on Instagram @kaneeshaprimus for more tips and inspiration for designing the wedding of your dreams!