Cosmopolitan

Friday, October 07, 2011

Bridal budget basics

Congrats! The ring is on your finger and now your mind is racing to that dream wedding you’ve been imagining for years (well, maybe months, weeks, or even minutes, at least). The lavish gown, the giant floral sculptures, the 10-course degustation dinner, the orchestra... hang on, first things first. We don’t mean to rain on your parade, but in order to ease the stress of the planning process and not to mention your relationship with your hubby-to-be and family, it’s time to number crunch. Rule number one in organising your perfect day is to set a budget. How so, you ask? Here are a few pointers:

Work out how much you can actually spend. Realistically discuss with your groom how much you both have saved up and organise a get-together with any family members who want to contribute. Work out the total figure and write it down.

Write a priority list. What’s most important to you? Is the couture gown a must-have? Make that number one. Do you need that five-piece band? Stick them up the top.

Break down the budget. Based on your total figure and your priority list, allocate an amount you plan to spend on each wedding expense, from the hair and make-up artists, to the pew decorations and confetti. Remember, if you desperately want that top-notch photographer, set aside a large part of your budget for them. This means you may have to compromise on other wedding elements. For example, if you must have that flash city venue, maybe you can skimp on decorations because the setting is stunning enough.

Keep a record of each cent. Spread sheets are your best friend. Take a peek at Cosmo Bride’s Wedding Planner where you’ll find a comprehensive budget chart (check out page 198 of the Spring 2011 issue). Here you have an “estimated cost” column and an “actual cost” column for each bridal element. If you fill this out as you go, it’s easy to see if you’re going over budget in one area and therefore anticipate that you’ll have to come under budget in another.

Don’t forget the easy-to-forget things... like the honeymoon! Make sure you set aside some moolah for this – it’s important to have some special time away with your new husband at a destination you both enjoy. Also, make sure you have sufficient cash for thank-you pressies for your bridal party and families, and money for thank-you cards for all your guests. They can often be forgotten in all the fun.

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