How much should I spend?

[lamava]

My budget is $10,000. We are expecting about 175 people and there are 12 people in the wedding party. I keep hearing conflicting viewpoints. Some tell me this is plenty of money, while others tell me it isn't. Has anyone else had a wedding on this budget and if so what is the break down of costs?

[txtemperance]

My sister just got engaged and has a budget of $10,000 as well, with a guest list of aprx. 200. We're freakin' - but somehow we'll get it done. You just have to be creative and be willing to think outside the box! Are you having any luck so far planning on a $10k budget with a guest list of 175? I'm her maid of honor - so I'm her left and right hand!

[DebbieSAChef]

There are so many shortcuts available to brides these days. So many do it yourself books and people who are happy to help.
I made my own bouquet, corsages, got a good priced photographer, had a simple but elegant reception at a restaurant.
I make groom's cakes. I also am experimenting on wedding cakes for brides. I have a few friends getting married soon and will be excited to help them out with this and by making their bouquets. I also sell Pampered Chef products, which has a great new wedding registry. FREE kitchen products, what a great idea!!
You might want to ask around and find those special people who have lots of talent and can help you out. I think the most expensive costs for a wedding are usually:
Wedding gown
Photographer
Cake
Decorations
Reception hall

So start now and get creative. I live in SA so let me know if I can help!
Debbie

[2bwed]

Cutting corners on the cake, not a good idea. I had a friend whose Aunt made her wedding cake. Her aunt apparently had no clue what she was doing because the cake melted before it arrived at the facility.

There is a reason why they call it a "wedding professional". They know what they are doing.

You get what you pay for.

[Bella Notte on Main]

One, stay within the budget you have set for yourself. The best and most economic way to do that is by going to an "all-inclusive" venue. While I personally believe it them, my beliefs have been reinforced over and over again lately on various news reports. This is the best way to go!

[khelzy09]

your wedding budget determines the type of wedding you have. However, low budget weddings does not necessarily have to turn out as a disaster and having dream wedding does not also mean that you have to spend more. The key here is to plan ahead. Know how much you are willing to spend and know your priorities.

Try to keep a balance between your wedding expenditures and the kind of honeymoon you want. spending more on your wedding might mean that you have lesser money for your honeymoon.

You also would definitely want to avoid post marital bankruptcy. that is why creating a wedding budget that suits your financial status is rather crucial in your life after the wedding.

Think about the things you need prepare for your wedding, like where do you want to hold the reception, the wedding theme, the kind of invitation you want, and your guest list.

It will be ideal to set an initial budget which you can trim or expand later on.
Make a list of relatives with whom you really want to share that special day with - this will be your official guest list. then make another list of people whom you can add later depending on the availability of funds. If your budget can't really accommodate a lot of guests, one trick to cut down your guest list would be eliminating kids, colleagues, and dates of guest from your list.
You can cut down on the cost by designing and printing your own invitation and other printer materials.
Learn to ask for help to save money. Pool your friends' and family's resources. Think of musicians you know, well-spoken friends who could be your officiant, and crafty people who can help you assemble things.
Be crafty/creative. Ask your friend to help you assemble favors and make invitations, centerpieces, and other homemade inexpensive touches.

[samiam]

Think about venues that are beautiful but wont take a large chunk of your budget. Personally, I would rather spend more on food than the venue but it seems that the venues gets the money first so whatever is left over goes to food. There are really great alternatives to renting plates, silverware, etc. Check out [COLOR="indigo"]http://www.smartyhadaparty.com and look for brides that are selling candle holders or linens. Community Centers have come a long way and can be a great idea for a venue. And there are caterers, wedding planners, etc that specialize in budget brides. You can choose to have a day of coordinator rather than one who helps throughout the process. That alone will be a great help on your wedding day.