Financial Matters
Dreaming about the perfect wedding is one thing - actually paying for it is another. Establish a realistic budget up front, and you’ll be able to create an affordable fantasy.
You are in love - it's the real thing. Now that you've found your partner in life, you want to share your happiness with everyone. You want your wedding celebration to be the talk of the town - the biggest and best ever.
Before your fantasies get ahead of your checkbook, ask yourself: who's paying for this wedding, and how much can you afford to spend?
Traditionally, the bride's parents paid the majority of the wedding costs. Back in the old days, the groom assumed full financial responsibility for his bride after they rode off into the sunset. He didn't have to chip in much for the wedding - he paid his share later.
It's a different story now. Both partners in a modern marriage tend to go back to work after the honeymoon, and these newlyweds have a bit more financial independence. It seems only natural for both families to contribute to the wedding celebration.
Decide the kind of wedding you'd like. Discuss your plans with those contributing to the cost, and determine a budget. Make everyone's financial limitations clear at this point - it will prevent hard feelings later.
Some ballpark figures to work with: expect a semi formal ceremony to cost between $6,000 and $7,500. A formal wedding ranges from $10,000 to $15,000, while and ultra formal ceremony can run $40,000 or more.
The largest single expense you're faced with is the reception. Festivities at private clubs and four-star restaurants are pricier than those held in the church fellowship hall. Check rates at several types of reception sites. - you will find one within your budget.
Many facilities offer excellent package deals. You'll find everything completely organized, from tea and sandwiches at the church to a formal sit-down dinner complete with orchestra. Purchasing services separately is a lot of work! Many couples opt for at least a partial package - it saves time and energy.
Costs for the reception room itself vary.
Prices range from free to several hundred dollars per hour. Professional planners suggest the reception last from 3 to 31/2 hours. Any shorter, and people who've traveled from afar may feel cheated. Any longer, and guests tend to break up into cliques.
Whether or not to serve a meal - that depends on your finances and what is expected in your community. Many ethnic and religious cultures traditionally celebrate with a hearty meal. If many of your guests have traveled a long distance, it's hospitable to feed them.
If you plan your wedding during mealtimes, you are expected to provide sustenance. If this creates a fiscal panic, change your reception style, or invite fewer guests. One workable option - plan a large reception with light refreshments, then ask close family, friends and out-of-town guests to your parents' house for a buffet dinner.
Food and beverage costs vary greatly. A hot cocktail buffet may run from $8 to $40 per per-son. Buffet dinners range from $15 to $40 per guest; a sit-down diner, $25 to $60 per person.
Caterers' estimates usually include the cost of beverages, but do make sure. Some caterers include champagne and beer and wine, but charge extra for mixed drinks at an open bar.
You may pay for drinks individually, or include the libations in the caterer's package. Most professionals offer reasonable prices - they get it wholesale.
With careful planning and a lot of investigating, you and your family can host the wedding you've always wanted - without ruining your budget. And you can go on dreaming about how special your wedding day will be.
