In the wedding of your dreams, cost is no factor. Literally. It does not exist. In reality, however, it will ultimately be the deciding factor in how close to that dream wedding you’re actually able to come. Sitting down to estimate the cost will very likely come with the sad realization that you will not be able to afford to make that dream come true. So how do you manage to get as close as you can? It’s all about prioritizing, compromising, and being realistic about what really matters to you.
Start by making your priority list. When you envision your dream wedding, which aspect stands out most in your mind? Is it your dress? The food? A venue with an amazing view? Or do you really just want a big dance party that will be remembered for decades to come? Perhaps you find the whole process overwhelming and hiring a planner would be the best use of your money. Whatever you decide is your priority should be your starting point. Do some research to come up with an estimated price for this service, as this will give you an idea as to how much you’ll be able to allot to each remaining aspect. When you really start to look at all of the details objectively, you may be surprised to discover what it is you really want and what, when it comes down to it, you can easily forego.
When doing preliminary vendor shopping, go through service and prices thoroughly. Be sure you understand what the base price specifically provides for and what any add on will cost. You don’t want to sign a contract only to discover right before your wedding that you aren’t getting what you expected. If your venue offers a vendor package, going this route will both help to simplify your planning and streamline costs. Saving money in this way could allow for add-ons like uplighting or a photo booth that might not otherwise fit into your budget.*
Once you’ve figured out how much money you’re able to delegate where, you’ll be able to decide what compromises can be made. An easy place to do so could be food and drink. What guest doesn’t love an open bar? If you feel it’s important to offer one as a thank you to your guests for attending your wedding, there are ways you can do so without breaking the bank. Set a limit, either of money spent, or time available. Offer it on only certain beverages, such as house wine and draught beer. If a formal plated dinner is not your style, a buffet dinner or cocktail reception may allow you to feed your guests with a smaller price tag.
By mapping your wedding out piece by piece before you begin booking, you’ll better be able to figure out where you can compromise and what you’ll actually remember. The most important thing you can do is to keep in mind that a wedding is just a one-day event. When you start to get too caught up in the production of it all, remind yourself that in the end, it’s not all the pomp and circumstance that’s important, it’s simply having your friends and family with you in celebration of your love.
*Get Down Tonight Entertainment, Inc. is proud to be included in the following establishments’ vendor packages:
Candia Woods Evergreen Pavillion
The Oaks Grandview Ballroom
Searles Castle at Windham
Zorvino Vineyards
Start by making your priority list. When you envision your dream wedding, which aspect stands out most in your mind? Is it your dress? The food? A venue with an amazing view? Or do you really just want a big dance party that will be remembered for decades to come? Perhaps you find the whole process overwhelming and hiring a planner would be the best use of your money. Whatever you decide is your priority should be your starting point. Do some research to come up with an estimated price for this service, as this will give you an idea as to how much you’ll be able to allot to each remaining aspect. When you really start to look at all of the details objectively, you may be surprised to discover what it is you really want and what, when it comes down to it, you can easily forego.
When doing preliminary vendor shopping, go through service and prices thoroughly. Be sure you understand what the base price specifically provides for and what any add on will cost. You don’t want to sign a contract only to discover right before your wedding that you aren’t getting what you expected. If your venue offers a vendor package, going this route will both help to simplify your planning and streamline costs. Saving money in this way could allow for add-ons like uplighting or a photo booth that might not otherwise fit into your budget.*
Once you’ve figured out how much money you’re able to delegate where, you’ll be able to decide what compromises can be made. An easy place to do so could be food and drink. What guest doesn’t love an open bar? If you feel it’s important to offer one as a thank you to your guests for attending your wedding, there are ways you can do so without breaking the bank. Set a limit, either of money spent, or time available. Offer it on only certain beverages, such as house wine and draught beer. If a formal plated dinner is not your style, a buffet dinner or cocktail reception may allow you to feed your guests with a smaller price tag.
By mapping your wedding out piece by piece before you begin booking, you’ll better be able to figure out where you can compromise and what you’ll actually remember. The most important thing you can do is to keep in mind that a wedding is just a one-day event. When you start to get too caught up in the production of it all, remind yourself that in the end, it’s not all the pomp and circumstance that’s important, it’s simply having your friends and family with you in celebration of your love.
*Get Down Tonight Entertainment, Inc. is proud to be included in the following establishments’ vendor packages:
Candia Woods Evergreen Pavillion
The Oaks Grandview Ballroom
Searles Castle at Windham
Zorvino Vineyards