What is Your Dream Wedding?
One of the first questions that I ask when meeting with a bride is, "what is your dream wedding? What does it look like?" Some of them give me the wedding that their mother or friend wants, some don't know and that is okay. Others say, it doesn't matter because I can't afford it anyway. To me, it does matter. I ask brides that because regardless of your budget, you can incorporate a little, some, or all of your dream wedding. You just have to know how. Did you meet in New Orleans and would love to get married there, but can't afford to have the wedding in New Orleans? Why not bring New Orleans to you? Decide on your wedding theme, and then continue on.
When Are We Going to Get Married?
Pick a day for your wedding, or at least a month. It is difficult to have a wedding when you don't know when it is. Once you come up with a date or a couple of dates, it is time to start a tentative budget. Deciding on a budget is not just about the dollar amount. It's also about whom else is contributing? Are you footing the entire bill or are Mom and Dad helping out as well? Don't assume. Ask and ask about a specific dollar amount. Yes, this is a sensitive subject. Money always is, but it is something that needs to be known to have an idea of the funds that you have available to plan your wedding.
How Are We Going to Pay For Our Wedding?
Remember that your budget is a preliminary budget. Things can change. Your parents may say no now and once they see that you are taking care of things on your own, they may decide to contribute.
Remember that your budget is VERY important. Once you have your budget, stick to it. Many couples have their budget and once it gets closer to the wedding date, the budget goes out the window. You have to know what you want. If you don't that is when you deviate from your budget.
