Total Weddings!

Yet another difficult part of any planning...The  budget! Before we begin considering what to spend on what, perhaps the first question to consider is who is doing the spending?  Traditionally, the Bride's parents reach deep in their wallets and outcomes the money they've been collecting from trees during their evening walks for the past 20 or so years!

With the expense of living increasing and the average age of newly-weds also on the rise, the tradition of the brides parents footing the bill is becoming less and less common.  Having said that, who pays for the wedding??? Well this is a question only you and your partner can answer.  In today's age it is common practice for the expenses to be shared between both families and the bride and groom themselves, however before you go shopping for dresses, booking the showroom in your cities casino and hiring Michael Bubble to entertain, you may consider organising an informal family dinner to discuss how much each family can contribute.  Remember, your wedding may be all about you, but it is important that you can balance your ideal wedding with your budget at hand.  You don't want your wedding budget to become a burden for yourself or your family so ensure that you can all come to a happy conclusion.

Once you know who can contribute what, it's time to start doing some more research.  Get a good idea for what different services are likely to cost.  If you consider a cheaper option and an expensive option you should then be able to gauge a reasonable estimate for what suits your requirements. Once you have done some research, arrange a time to sit with your partner in a relaxed environment and begin setting out a reasonable budget. Remember...nine times out of ten you will be over or (with luck) under your budget so allow for some flexibility.  Ensure that you listen to each others needs and discuss them accordingly.  Don't forget, love brought you here and your love will see you through to a successful and happy wedding day! Below are some tips on saving some money on your budget;

- Your guests will likely bring gifts for your wedding.  They want to give as part of this celebration. Perhaps they may consider putting in towards the wedding entertainment or photographer as their gift.

- Your bridal party does not always expect to have everything paid for, although they won't want to be maxing out the credit card on their outfits either.  If you are conservative with their attire, they may be willing help with the expense.

- If you really want that venue but it's more expensive and will bring you well above budget, you may consider saving money on your guest list.  Most couples feel obliged to invite particular guests and therefore create a huge guest list consisting of family friends who may not have even been part of life for the last 10 years.  By culling some guests that may not be so close, you may save enough money for something else which you really want as a part of your wedding.