Paying for a Wedding on a Budget

Planning how to pay for a wedding can be an overwhelming thought. Not to mention that the thoughts move quickly, as the planning and vendor down payments start immediately.

We've got your back with helpful tips to prevent costs from spiraling out of control:

1. Consider the bigger picture - A wedding is an importany occasion worth celebrating. However, it is also just the first day of a couple's new life together. What other goals do they have? Is buying a home together on their to-do list? If so, a smaller ceremony could help them achieve their next milestone sooner.
2. Be creative about timing & venues - If you're only shopping for venues on a Saturday in June, get ready to pay premium prices. Research alternative dates and locations. You may just find that an off-season celebration is both more available and affordable. Likewise, you may discover an off-the-beaten path venue that excees your expectations.
3. Set a reasonable budget - Even if you decide to go smaller, the dress, venue, catering, photographer and other expenses add up quickly. Take time to sketch it all out with realistic numbers based on the local vendors you've researched and the number of guests you'd like to share in your big day.
4. Shop for financing, too - Once you've determined a reasonable budget, it's still likely your costs may be more than what you've saved. If your parents are homeowners and would like to help, a Home Equity Line of Credit (or HELOC*) may be an affordable option. Paying for it yourself? Shop around for the best deals on Personal Loans.
5. If all else fails, push the date back - There's nothing wrong with a longer engagement, especially if you're determined to have your big day, your way without going into debt making it happen. Start a special Savings Account with your local financial institution just for your wedding expenses and consider other ways to affordably finance your wedding such as earning extra income through a "side hustle" or temporary part-time job.

No matter what kind of celebration you choose, large or small, here's wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful wedding full of memories to treasure for a lifetime!