Staying on budget

Love is that condition in which the happiness
of another is essential to your own.

Planning a wedding would be so easy if you had unlimited resources and financial backing. The most challenging part of planning our wedding for me has been achieving our vision but staying in our budget. I think I've done a great job of working within my budget but it's been difficult. I've found some amazing deals and I've saved us some serious cash, but there are a couple items we don't really have that much control over and that's the food and drinks portion of the reception… unless we're willing to cut into the number of people joining us. We've made sacrifices elsewhere to keep our original numbers. We really want all of our family and close friends to be able to celebrate with us. The food and beverages are by far the most expensive part of the planning process. But, it's the biggest party we're ever going to throw (probably) so why not splurge a little right?

I have 12 pointers for other brides out there who are looking to save cash on catering expenses.

1. During the cocktail hour, hand pass the pricier appetizers rather than offering them self-serve. Guests consume 40 percent less.
2. Serve the food in unique plates or ways. People eat with their eyes first, so focus on presentation.
3. There's no need to serve five courses after cocktail hour… stick with three.
4. Have salad of spring greens rather than traditional Caesar.
5. Some meats are pricier at different times of the year.
6. For a 20 percent savings serve family-style dishes.
7. Ask for a detailed price list for vegetables/sides to make better budget decisions. Not all vegetables are priced the same.
8. Going for midshelf instead of topshelf at the bar can help you save up to 30 percent.
9. Skip the champagne for toasts.
10.Close the open bar an hour early. This can save hundreds of dollars.
11. Stick with regular cake flavors that are more budget friendly.
12. Buttercream frosting will cost you less than fondant.

A wedding budget should follow this formula: 48-50% for the reception, 8-10% for flowers, 8-10% for attire, 8-10% for entertainment/music, 10-12% for photo/video, 2-3% for invites, 2-3% for gifts, and 8% for miscellaneous items. It's essential to allocate an extra 5-10% of the money for surprise expenses.

-Penny