Q and A

It's Q and A time with me, the wedding planner! Today, Jones (AKA Becky,) asked me this question:

Q: "So, can you give me advice like what percentage of a wedding budget should go to each part? Dress, flowers, food, reception hall rental, gifts for the wedding party, etc? What are all of the parts that I need to think about? (Note that I am NOT engaged. I don't want you to be confused. I'm just THINKING about it. That's all.)"

A: Typically, most people allot approximately 50% of their budget for the reception, (location, food, beverage, etc.) and then allot up to 10% each to flowers, photography, attire, and music. The rest goes to stationery, favors, gifts, and any other details.

However, this is just "on average." Before you plan your wedding, know how much you can spend (and stick to it!) and then decide what's most important to you (and your man.) Is it having a great photographer? Is it your dress? Is it food? You may decide to allot more money on your dress and spend less on flowers, for example.

And lastly of course, you have to remember that your guest list directly effects the cost of your wedding. The more people you have, the more expensive it will be.

And also remember that any budget can be tailored to your wants and needs. For example, I've come up with wedding budgets for a $4,000 wedding (and it would be a GREAT wedding!) So you don't have to spend a fortune, (compared to today's average of $20,000 for a wedding,) you just have to know the tricks on how to cut the costs.