Wedding Budget

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Creating a Wedding Reception Budget
Guest Columnist Jacqueline Rosser
The difficult economy is making creating and sticking to wedding reception budget more important than ever before.  Many feel that creating a budget will ruin their freedom as they plan their wedding reception.  However, wise couples have learned that a well thought out budget will serve as an excellent planning tool.  A budget will help you create the wedding reception of your dreams without acquiring a large amount of debt and regret.
Calculate
The first step to creating a wedding reception budget is determining the amount that you have to spend.  Consider all sources of wedding funding in this estimation.  Since your wedding budget will cover both the ceremony and the reception, it is wise to divide the money between these categories and then to create two separate budgets.

Categorize

Once you know how much money you are able to spend, it is time to categorize your money into the different elements of your reception.  You may need categories like food, DJ, reception hall, decorations, flowers, favors, invitations, etc.  Often couples find it difficult to know how much is needed in each category.  In the early stages of your budget, a range can help you as you determine what is needed.  Another option is to call for quotes to get a basic idea of the funding required.  Make accurate estimations to ensure that your budget will work.

Stick to It

Now that you have a basic budget, follow it.  As you meet with wedding vendors, explain your budget and the amount you can spend.  Setting your priorities early in the planning process will help you to focus early.  This will help you to avoid committing to items that you cannot afford.  You may need to make compromises and find ways to save money.  Sticking to your wedding budget is very important; paying off wedding debt for years after the wedding can cast a shadow of regret over your wedding day.
Early in your reception planning, establish a budget.  Use this reception budget as a tool as you make decisions about your wedding expenses.

DFW DJ Rod Baker