Engaged!…Now What? Pt. I: Talking About Money

Congratulations on your engagement! You’re about to dive into the fabulous world of wedding planning. It’s a wild ride, but don’t worry—we’re here to help you set a solid foundation. In this blog, we’ll guide you through three essential steps to get you started: setting a budget, choosing a wedding date, and creating a guest list.

There will be storytime in the near future regarding our engagement night in the Pacman costumes (10/10).

Setting a Budget

First things first: setting a budget. Your budget is like the secret sauce that flavors every aspect of your wedding, from the venue and catering to the flowers and entertainment. Here’s how to whip it up:

Determine Your Overall Budget: Grab your partner and any contributing family members for a serious chat. How much are you willing and able to spend? Be realistic—this isn’t Monopoly money.

Break Down the Budget: Divide your budget into categories like venue, catering, attire, flowers, photography, and entertainment. Do some detective work on average costs in your area to know what you’re in for.

Prioritize Your Must-Haves: What’s non-negotiable for you and your partner? Stunning floral arrangements? A killer DJ? Allocate more of your budget to these top priorities and adjust other areas accordingly.

Create a Contingency Fund: Set aside a small portion (around 5-10%) for those unexpected expenses. You know, the “Oh, we forgot about that!” moments.

Choosing a Wedding Date

Picking a wedding date is a big deal. It sets the tone for your entire planning timeline and affects the availability of venues and vendors. Here’s what to consider:

Season and Weather: Think about the time of year you want to tie the knot. Each season has its own unique charm and quirks. Love summer’s sunshine but not the sweat? Maybe a spring or fall wedding is more your style.

Venue Availability: Popular venues are like the hottest clubs in town—they book up fast. If you’ve got your heart set on a particular spot, check their availability and be flexible with your date if needed.

Significant Dates: Consider dates that hold special meaning for you and your partner, like your first date anniversary or the day you got engaged. It adds a personal touch to your big day.

Guest Availability: Avoid major holidays or events that might mess with your guest list. Also, think about whether a weekday or weekend wedding works best for your loved ones.

Creating a Guest List

Your guest list shapes the vibe of your wedding and influences many planning decisions. Here’s how to craft a list that fits your vision and budget:

Start with a Rough List: Jot down everyone you and your partner want to invite—family, friends, colleagues. Don’t stress about the exact number just yet.

Categorize Your Guests: Divide your list into categories like immediate family, extended family, close friends, and acquaintances. This will help you see where cuts might be needed if your list gets out of hand.

Consider Your Venue: Keep your venue’s capacity in mind. If it can only hold 100 guests, you’ll need to trim your list accordingly. No one wants a game of musical chairs on the big day.

Prioritize Your Invitations: Focus on inviting the VIPs who’ve played significant roles in your lives. Who do you want to share this special day with?

Set Boundaries: Be clear with parents and family members about their invite limits. This helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps your guest list from ballooning.

Final Thoughts

Starting your wedding planning journey with a clear budget, a well-thought-out wedding date, and a manageable guest list will set you up for success. At Fashionable Florist, we understand the importance of every detail, and we’re here to help you bring your floral dreams to life. Stay tuned for more tips and inspiration to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

For more personalized advice and to explore our stunning floral designs, contact us today.

XOXO,

Fashionable Florist