Okay, do you have a date range and guessimate on guest count?
Now for another list. Oh, wait...Do you have a planner just for your wedding or use excel? Let's weigh the pros and cons.
Store Bought Pro: They have a lot of information.
Con: They might have too much and nothing the fits inside you vision.
DIY Planner Pro: It's a blank slate and you can design it how you want it.
Con: If you're not comfortable in programs like Excel it might feel daunting.
Okay, you have you're planner now and ready to start making a projected budget.
Look at your key items: Venue, Caterer, Photographers, and Officiant.
In the end all you really need is a place to get married, someone to marry you, your witnesses, and photographer for the memories. EVERY thing else is just dressing but it's also what makes the day seem magical. Even the rings are under a different section because some people do not do rings. The reason I put caterer in a key spot is because if you are doing a reception you want to feed your guest.
If your guest count is low than the highest cost usually come from Venues and Photographers. If your guest count is high than it'll most likely be Catering, Venue, and Photographer.
Are you okay? Don't stress; we will break this down.
Venue: Outside, Indoor, Both. There are a myriad of options based on what you want.
If you are okay with outside, maybe a little rustic, than state parks all the way. Some are designed to have a more elegant feel to them. Most state park might have a cultural building or pavilion that comes with kitchen, table, and chairs!
Some Airbnb, VRBO, and vacation rentals allow small events to be held on the property. Reach out to the property owners and see what they will allow before booking though.
Dance Halls or Garden Clubs seem to be sleepers. They give you space for usually and afforded price.
Pubs and Speakeasies. We have a few in my area that have big open modern spaces.
A friend's backyard. There is nothing wrong with a friend hosting a wedding for you if you have one with a large enough space.
With a 5k budget just keep in mind, go outside the box with your venue so you can allocate more money to things that are not as flexible.
Photography: This is a stressful one for me personally. I have seen photography prices skyrocket in the last year! If you are on a 5k budget than it's hard. Most photographers in my area are now starting at $1800 and up. Deep breaths...there are ways around this.
Look for a student or someone that's just getting into wedding photography. People just getting a foothill in this field will be willing to work at a discount usually, but here are a few things to look at...do they have a portfolio showing their style...maybe schedule an engagement or test shoot. You might even find someone that's technically retired but takes side jobs from time to time.
Also does a family or friend have mad photography skills that you trust?
Catering: There are several ways to do this. Decide what type of meal you're having. Some people are now do a reception breakfast or lunch over the traditional dinner. There is no wrong answer, only what suits you and your vision.
Don't be afraid to go with your favorite restaurant or fast food. Most places cater so go with something you know you will like not what you think a wedding should have.
Officiant: Are you religious? What are the laws in your area?
If you have a regular church, check with them for your officiant. Some have set amounts, some do what is called "love donations" where you donate what you can, and others might have that day off and feel like doing a good deed.
Are one of your friends or family members willing to take an online course that allows them to marry you?
In some states all you need is a notary. Do you live in one of those?
Don't automatically think you'll have to pay $250 and above for that officiant you met at an expo.
P.S. I thought this was posted in February. LOL
No comments:
Post a Comment