|
Remember that what determines your costs more than anything is the number of guests you invite. Why not keep the list down to people you really care to share the biggest day of your life with?
Be sure to consider all of the details when estimating your costs so that you stay within your budget. Use the Civil Ceremony Budget Worksheet to help you estimate and stick to your Civil Ceremony budget.
One of the most overlooked costs, which can be significant, is tipping. Plan on tipping caterers, limo drivers, photographers, and others 15 to 20% of their total bill if their services are satisfactory.
Who Pays For What?
It also helps to know who traditionally pays for the various functions and features of your Civil Ceremony. It will be useful to discuss the various part of your Ceremony with both families and agree the costs each party will carry.
What Are the Average Amounts Spent on Each Category?
The average cost on average is approximately
- 40% of the total Civil Ceremony budget on the caterer (food, cake, and alcohol),
- 3% on the facilities for the reception,
- 8% on flowers, 10% on entertainment,
- 14% on clothing, 7% on a photographer,
- 4% on invitations and other printed supplies,
- 4% on gifts,
- 2% on transportation, and
- 8% on miscellaneous items.
How Can I Reduce Costs?
How can you reduce costs and still have a beautiful, memorable Civil Ceremony? Some of the biggest ways to save money are:
Reduce the number of guests
Have a buffet or hors d'oeuvres instead of a sit-down dinner
Have a cash bar, or close the bar during dinner, or have an alcohol-free reception
Consider an off-season Civil Ceremony (November through April) to reduce costs for the reception site
Consider having your Civil Ceremony on any day other than Saturday to reduce costs for the reception site
Have a smaller Civil Ceremony party (number of attendants)
Start by looking through the budget and crossing off anything that you don't need. For example if you're having both the ceremony and reception at one location, you might not need to include transportation. Use your contacts. Don't be afraid to ask recently married friends who they used and what they paid. Ask friends in the wedding industry to help you out, and give you a discount if possible. If the numbers still aren't working out, ask yourself what's really important to you. Perhaps it's better to have a small wedding now, and then renew your wedding vows in five or ten years when you can save for the big party.
Once you've set a budget, stick to it. Easier said than done, but an important thing to do.
|