Money Matters
Money doesn’t have to be a difficult subject as long as a
realistic budget is set from the outset. This will allow
the planning to run smoothly and negotiations may
begin. Traditionally it is the bride’s parents who pay
for the wedding; however, nowadays that is not always
the case. Both sets of parents may wish to contribute. If
the in-laws do not contribute to the actual wedding they
may wish to host a pre- or post-wedding dinner or party.
On the other hand, the couple may decide to pay for
the entire affair themselves, especially if they are older
and financially independent. However, be aware that
just because somebody is contributing to the wedding
does not mean that they control what happens. Discuss
openly before accepting parental donations in order to
save dispute down the line.
Budgeting
Having a concrete budget right from the beginning is
unrealistic as couples will often want to change their
minds several times before anything is actually decided.
Recording all estimated as well as real costs will allow
expenditure levels to be monitored. Involve as few people
as possible in the budgeting as spending priorities will
be different for everyone, especially parents due to the
generation gap.
Priorities
Remember to prioritise and compromise; thinking
about what is essential and what is unnecessary in order
to and decide where costs can be cut. Whatever the
budget, it will never be enough so don’t underestimate
costs and identify what the most important aspects of
the day will be from the outset such as: the reception
venue, the dress or the quality of the catering. Making
sure there is enough wine and lots of entertainment may
be seen as far more important than paying thousands of
pounds on flowers to decorate the venue. This also
applies to the food. A bad meal will be something people
will remember so consider quality over quantity for
example; a simple yet lovely starter and dessert will be
far nicer than a mediocre five-course lunch.
Provisional to final budget
Firstly, agree on a total provisional cost and take into
account parental contributions. Then shop around to
record an estimated amount for each section of the wedding.
When costs are beginning to become finalised it is important to keep a record of the total plus any deposits that have been paid. If a saving has been made, the amount can then be allocated to a different area and, likewise if the budget is exceeded in one area, then savings must be made in another or extra money found.
Quotations and costs
Most suppliers will provide an estimate for their services;
however, it is important to note the difference between a
quotation and the real amount to be paid. The real
budget should be decided upon once quotations, rather
than estimates, are received. Estimates may no longer
reflect the extent of the services being provided and may
be unrealistic.
It is vitally important to keep a note of where deposits have been made, when balances are due as well as outstanding sums. Also keep a record of all receipts and remember that most suppliers’ quotes do not include VAT, so allow for extra money to be added on.
A good thing to bear in mind is that using the word ‘wedding’ may automatically incur added costs. In order to avoid this try to shop around, even using friends and family to give recommendations or do some research on your behalf. There are several areas that big wedding suppliers may not be necessary; such as the cake, bridesmaid’s dresses and flowers.
Showing appreciation
Tipping is not usually recommended for companies or
individuals that have supplied services for a wedding.
However, friends or acquaintances who have given
special rates on things such as flowers or have gone
beyond the call of duty may be better rewarded with a
gift rather than insisting on paying the going rate.
These extra costs add up so remember to add them
to your budget.
it is important to keep a record of the total, plus any deposits that have been paid.
