Many lucky couples will tie the knot this year. With a $298 billion global wedding market, it also means getting yourself ready for a long ride full of decisions, compromise and most importantly realizing your fairy tale dream day come to life.
To help with sorting out the often biggest aspect in a wedding – the finances – we’ve come up with a quick guide that will run through organizing wedding costs and even some reminders about those hidden costs that could sneak up on you if you’re not careful.
First things first. You have to come up with a general number. Between you and your partner and whatever other sources of income you’ll be utilizing for your wedding event, you’ll need a number to work with. This could come with some discomfort if you need to ask the family what they’ll be helping with or you may have already started a savings fund of your own in anticipation of this big day coming in the future. Everyone’s journey will be different so it’s important to focus on your own as you plan to budget and finance your wedding.
Once you’ve established a general budget, it’s time to start making lists (there will be lots of lists through this process.)
Figure out what things are going to be most important to make the big day possible. Such as the venue, attire and a photographer. This list is going to be pretty comprehensive and should include everything you’re going to need for the day. Skimping here is not an option.
*A few often forgotten wedding costs:
– Postage stamps for invitations
– Alterations
– Car rentals or lodging
– Marriage license fees
After you’ve made this list and did some research on the general cost for these items (keep in mind this could change) you will now have a better idea of where you’re at in terms of the “add-ons” to make your event extra special.
Here’s where you can have some fun.
Have you always wanted to hire a live band to play at the ceremony? Considering a horse-drawn carriage for your grand entrance? How about some amazing send-off fireworks to end the night? There are a plethora of options today when it comes to personalizing and making your wedding day a memorable event for you and your guests.
Making these spending plans early on will mean more time to shift and change ideas with ease, gather additional funds or even pick that super elegant location with the amazing riverside view to capture the breathtaking moments.
The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station is a private wedding venue that promises the very finest in food, service, and elegance. Sitting atop the banks of the Connecticut River and across from the historic Goodspeed Opera House, with the famous Haddam Swing Bridge in-between – it’s truly one of a kind.
Get in touch today to book your wedding date!