Love (and Budgets) in the Air: How to Plan a Wedding Without Crying Over Your Wallet

Ah, weddings—the magical day when love is celebrated, champagne flows, and budgets mysteriously disappear into thin air. If you've ever gasped at the price of wedding flowers or questioned why chairs cost that much, you're not alone. But don’t worry lovebirds, we're here to help you plan a fabulous wedding without selling a kidney.

1️.  The Budget Breakdown: Where Your Money Goes

 Biggest Allocation:

• Photography—Because blurry iPhone pics from Uncle Bob just won’t cut it. The photos will be with you forever as a reminder of the big day. It's important to pay for a good photographer who will deliver quality products.

• Catering & Cake – No one remembers your exact menu, but they WILL remember if they had to eat dry chicken. The food is part of the experience! The average cost of wedding food per guest starts at $30/person, and that includes appetizers and food.

• Wedding Planner – A wedding planner isn’t just a luxury; it’s a lifesaver. Investing $5,000–$10,000 on a planner means you have someone handling logistics, vendor negotiations, and last-minute crises (like when your cousin forgets his tux). More importantly? A great planner will actually save you money by steering you away from costly mistakes and getting you the best deals.

Smallest Allocation:

• Wedding Favors – Let’s be real, most guests forget them at their table. Even at just $5 per guest, that’s $500 for 100 guests on items most won’t take home. That money could go toward an upgraded bar package, a late-night snack, or extra florals that enhance your wedding day.

• Save-the-Dates – Digital RSVPs are your budget-friendly BFF. Having a website where you can provide hotel details, how the weather will be like on your day, and even provide your registry or honeymoon fund link will save you on money and time, and your guests will thank you.

2️.  The “Do I Really Need That?” Test

If it’s not essential, memorable, or bringing you joy, skip it. Personalized napkins? Meh. Champagne wall? Yes, please.

3️.  Hidden Costs That’ll Sneak Up on You (Like a Bad Ex)

• Service Charges & Taxes – That "affordable" vendor quote? Add 20-30% more.

• Alterations – Because your dream dress may not fit like a glove straight off the rack.

• Post-Wedding Expenses – Tip your vendors! They made your day amazing.

4️. The Best Free Wedding Hack? Trusting Elegant Evening Events! 😉

Okay, not free-free, but investing in a wedding planner (aka us!) means saving time, money, and unnecessary stress. We help you find the best vendors, avoid overpriced nonsense, and make sure your big day is everything you dreamed of—without the financial heartbreak.