Tips for Sticking to Your Wedding Budget

One of the biggest challenges you’ll face when it comes to planning your wedding is making sure you stick with the budget you have set. Whether your parents are helping to pay for it or you are on your own, making sure you don’t go over budget is critical. Following are a few tips to help make sure you stay within the budget you originally set and don’t start off your marriage on the wrong foot.

Use a Budget System

Even if you set the amount of money you plan to spend on your wedding ahead of time, it can be easy for things to get out of control if you aren’t careful. This is why it’s important to track what you are spending and how much each aspect of your wedding should cost. There are programs available to help you keep track of your spending, keeping a running total so you always know where you are in the budgeting process.

Consider Surprise Expenses

You may start with a good idea of what you need for your wedding and how much it will all cost, but it never fails expenses will come up you didn’t think about. For instance, many couples fail to factor in the cost of tipping the professionals they use for catering, photography and officiating the ceremony. Vendor trials may also cost a small fee, as well as any overtime costs generated from your wedding party going longer than you expected. Stamps, marriage license fees, favors and other small items can quickly add up.

Plan to Go Over Budget

It’s always best to overestimate the cost of items for your wedding , typically by about five percent. This will cover any unexpected costs that can arise. For example, you may realize you need another boutonniere or other floral arrangement at the last minute. Small accidents and weather related expenses can also spring up, especially if any aspect of your wedding takes place outdoors.