| There is no need to spend money on a wedding planner unless you are going for a six or seven figure platinum wedding. If you are not having such a huge, extravagant wedding, than you can easily eliminate the planner fee. But first you really need to get organized.
Select a maximum dollar figure as your budget and stay within it. Next put your guest list in writing and finalize it. Nothing throws off your budget like the number of guests escalating as your planning moves along. |
Once you nail down the big items discussed above, leave some money for the frills that add that special character to your wedding. Wedding favors may seem frivolous, but this is an item that your guests will take away at the end of the festivities as mementos.
Flowers can be a budget breaker, so don't fall in love with too grandiose of a selection. Wedding planners usually allow a fairly small percentage of the overall cost of the wedding for flowers. If you’re getting financially stretched, consider some scales of economy. Use flowers that are in season because they cost less. Cost compare using alternative centerpieces instead of flower arrangements. Reduce the number in your wedding party and save on bouquets. Choose less complicated floral arrangements, or try to find a natural setting such as a garden or beach where nature supplies the bulk of the floral ambiance for free.
Don't be afraid. Get organized, make a list, do a simple spread sheet, enlist help of family, friends, and members of the wedding party. Don't forget those special gifts for the maid of honor and the best man and of course those memorable wedding favors that keep the day alive for your guests.