No matter what kind of wedding- couples would want to have, the primary thing they should achieve is setting up their budget. Couples know what they like and create weddings to their own tastes and necessities. As couples often wait longer and live together, many of the engaged couples pay for the wedding themselves. There are also cases in which the couple’s parents each have their own shares in the wedding finances. What is consistent is that the budget defines the parameters of a wedding, from location to reception menu. The grandest rule: Set your budget and stick to it.

Here is an overview of the traditional outlay items for all parties concerned. Bear in mind, that matters vary for each and every situation.

Bride and Family Pay for: Invites, wedding programs, thank-you cards, etc, the groom’s wedding band. The wedding venue, organist, etc. The bridal gown, veil, shoes and accessories Flowers at the wedding venue and gathering, plus all bridesmaids’ bunch and corsages. All the wedding pictures and video All reception staples, drink, adornments and music Transportation of the entire bridal entourage to and from the ceremony and reception.

Caterer: Buffet dinners are a lot more costly because of the need to make food more available to make the trays look more pleasant. Sit-down dinners are more preferred and are most economical. Set portions and pre-plated plates are served to the guest. Music: Hiring a DJ instead of live bands will help you cut down on your budget. Photographer: Seek a professional photographer for the ceremony and reception. The photographs are your most treasured keepsake of the event; it serves as a permanent memory to revisit your special day for the years to come. Professional photographers have the time, equipment and experience to deliver your grandest and memorable shots.

In the end it can be said that you wedding day is that of your new family unit. Your spouse and yourself and no one else. Resist outside pressures. Interestingly enough it is seldom the in laws who can be the harbingers of the greatest influence and even “pressure tactics”. Interestingly enough it is oft well meaning friends of the bride’s mother who extract the greatest toll. Each may be living or reliving their marriage days of yore – real or imagined. Remember that in the end the day belongs to you and your spouse and your future memories and plans. Your wedding day, the banquet, reception ET all are “Your Parade”, “Your Day in the Sun”. Enjoy yourselves.

Planning Wpg St. Vital Banquet Receptions