Budgeting for your Big Day

Let’s face it. Weddings can add up, FAST. According to The Knot, American couples spent an average of $28,000 on their wedding ceremony and reception in 2021 — back up to pre-pandemic spending levels. Before you decide to skip the party and head down to the courthouse there are tons of ways to budget for the big day.

We find the top three ways to save for a wedding are:

1.)    Limit the guest list: If you’re planning a wedding with a particular budget in mind, one of the easiest ways to reduce costs is to invite fewer people.  As a general rule plan to budget $70 per guest on food and alcohol for the cocktail hour and reception.

2.)    Skip Saturday: Saturdays are the most in-demand for venues, caterers, florists, etc. Any other day of the week will save you money. Choose a date, not in a peak month and you’ll save even more.

3.)    Decide what’s most important to you: Are you a foodie? Are photos the biggest item on your list?  Write down the top priority that you each want for your big day and work from there. Electronic invitations are becoming more popular as are smaller bridal parties. There are many ways to save on other items once you’ve identified your biggest priorities.