How to Budget for Wedding Season

Wedding season is a time of joy and celebration. If you’ve received invites to multiple weddings, costs can add up quickly. Here are some tips on how to budget for wedding season so you can enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank.

Consider how much you’re willing to spend

The first step to budgeting for wedding season is to consider how much you’re willing to spend. Be honest with yourself about your financial situation—if you don’t have a lot of extra money, don’t feel pressured to splurge on gifts or decorations. Instead, brainstorm creative ways to show your support without spending a ton.

Revisit your budget

Now that you know how much you’re willing to spend, it’s time to look your budget. This can give you insight into how much you can spend over the next few months. Revisit all your expenses, everything from rent and utilities to groceries to life insurance payments like whole life insurance. Figure out what you have coming in and what you have to work with after all your costs. If needed, consider what you can cut temporarily and whether you’re paying for things you’re no longer using. 

Save up beforehand

If you still have a few months, it can be a good idea to start saving up for wedding season. Save the dates tend to come early, giving you some time for advance planning. So, if your friend is having a destination wedding in Maui and you want to attend, start saving a little bit every month for the next four or five months. This can add up and make budgeting easier when the time comes.

See if you can skip the hotel

Hotels can be expensive and often come with hidden costs like parking or mandatory resort fees. If possible, stay with a friend or family member instead of booking a hotel room. This will save you money, and you can spend quality time with the friend or relative you’re staying with.

Investigate traveling on a budget

If you need to book a hotel or take a flight for a wedding, look into ways to travel on a budget. Couples often reserve hotel blocks, offering wedding guests a discounted rate on rooms. Try using travel search engines to compare prices and choose the lowest-cost option. Keep an eye out for deals. Also, be aware of the timing—flight prices vary depending on your travel dates and when you book. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you might be able to save money.

Be honest and set boundaries

Finally, when budgeting for wedding season, be honest with yourself and your loved ones about what you can afford. Don’t feel pressured to spend more than you’re comfortable with, and set boundaries so you don’t end up overspending. Maybe you can only afford to attend a friend’s bachelorette party or their destination wedding—let the bride and groom know, and seek their input on what they’d prefer. Remember–the goal is to celebrate the new couple and have a wonderful time without breaking the bank!

Source: iQuanti