Local wedding expert, Sheri Wise, of Events by Wise has given us her top 4 quick tips to help couples get started on their wedding planning and to help them stay within their budget. Staying organized and paying attention to detail will not only keep stress at pay, but also help stay on track with your budget.

  1. Number one way to make your wedding affordable is to limit your guest list. Not only does a large guest list increase your catering expense, but it also increases the cost of your rentals, bar, centerpieces and wedding favors. Think of it as inviting them out to dinner and you are paying the bill. It is ok to not include a plus one for everyone or have an adult only wedding.
  1. The first item on your task list should be to hire a wedding planner. This is the best way to save money. How can that be you ask? As a Professional in the wedding industry, your planner can help you create a realistic budget and help you stick to it. Your wedding planner will also have connections that will help you save money as well as time.
  1. Pay close attention to your contracts with vendors. A perfect example would be hiring a photographer and signing a contract that includes 8 hours of shooting. Then when creating your timeline you realize you want your photographer for shots with bridal party at 1 pm but your sparkler exit (that you have been dreaming of forever) won’t take place until 10:30pm. Contracts will also state whether or not rentals include set up and tear down. This is an important detail when arranging day-of or even day-after help.
  1.  When creating a budget for your wedding the most important expenses should be your first items added to your budget: Your wedding planner, venue, caterer and photographer. After deciding what these services will cost, you can decide how much you have left for decor, flowers, photo booths, favors and any other extras you want to add.

These are just a few of the tips Shari has to offer. For more of her wonderful wedding ideas and for information on wedding planning services, log on to eventsbywise.com or call 530-848-3843.

And, make sure to “like” Events by Wise on Facebook at facebook.com/eventsbywise.

Tune into the Real Weddings Blog for more awesome tips and tricks…!


 

Photos by Wescott & Co. Photography & Media / copyright Real Weddings Magazine.

Blog post by Real Weddings Magazine writer, Kelley Saia.

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