We made it to February and while Coronavirus is still a challenge, we are happy to be open and working in Sunny South Florida.  We truly believe that things will continue to get better and that you can celebrate safely!

Today's topic is the dreaded "B word" - BUDGET.   It can be awkward, uncomfortable and daunting to talk about budget when planning the wedding of your dreams. 

And a quick word of advice.  Please don't start the conversation with your vendors by saying "I am on a budget".  Yes, you are.  Everyone has a budget.   A great wedding planner, like Fabuluxe Events, helps you match your vendors with your budget. 

Whether your budget is $10,000 or $100,000 or 1,000,000 it is still a budget and your ideas will need to fit within those parameters.

So here are some tips for handling the budget discussion.

1.  Sit down with both families.  Ask what, if anything, they are able to contribute. Sometimes it is a dollar amount. Sometimes they will say, I want to pay for photography or flowers up to a certain dollar amount.  But be up front and ask the questions.

2.  Talk honestly as a couple.  What can you two afford to contribute to the wedding expenses?  Be honest...Do NOT go into major debt to plan a wedding.  It is not a competition.  It is a wedding celebrating two people in love making a lifelong commitment to each other.  

3.  Have realistic expectations.  You may have to sacrifice in some categories to get what you really want in other categories.    You can not have surf and turf, open-premium bar and a live band for 150 on $5,000...so something will have to give.  Be realistic.

4.  Set priorities.  If photography is a priority get the best possible photographer you feel comfortable paying.  If food is a priority stretch the food budget and lower another category.  

5.  Carefully watch your guest list.  Less guests = less money.  It is that simple.  So Uncle Joe, three times removed does not have to be on the guest list if no one in your family has seen him since Reagan was President. 

6. Hire only professional wedding vendors, with wedding experience.  It will cost you far more in time and effort if you hire someone who is not a pro or let a family member handle certain things. 

7. Hire a fantastic Wedding Planner, like Fabuluxe Events.  Wedding planners will know which vendors and venues will fit your budget. They can help you negotiate contracts.  They can keep you on-track and sane during the process and that my friends, is priceless.

So remember, EVERYONE IS WORKING WITH A BUDGET.  They key is being realistic and honest about it from the very beginning.

And remember,
You Deserve a FABULUXE Day!
Jen
jennifer@fabuluxeevents.com 
561-254-2041