Wedding Budget Tips — Skybox Event Productions

Aug 23

Aug 23 Wedding Budget Tips

Many couples have been dreaming of their wedding day plans for years, and your engagement is the kick-off you’ve been waiting for. It’s fun to browse potential venues, look through local brides’ wedding photos, and start to consider what you and your partner will wear. Planning the décor and party has its challenges, but it’s a fun and exciting conversation.

Couples may be less eager to start talking about their wedding budget. Though your budget should be one of your early priorities so you can plan a ceremony you love without financial stress. Once you know how much you can afford, you can better determine how many guests to invite and what venues are a good fit.

The majority of your budget will likely cover catering and venue costs. This means this is also your best opportunity to save. We’ve gathered these tips on what to ask your venue and how to save on your wedding.

Questions to Ask Your Venue

There’s a huge variety of wedding venues to choose from, and each couple wants something different from their venue. Some couples are happy to hike a mountain for a picturesque elopement, while others can’t give up a classic cathedral wedding.

Whichever location you choose, if they’re providing paid services, here are some questions to help you figure out just what’s included.

What Are Our Catering Options?

Some venues require you to hire their on-site catering services, and others will let you handle food however you like. Catering is a huge wedding expense, so a flexible venue gives you a lot of wiggle room.

If your venue has on-site or specific caterers they’ll work with, you want to know their cost per plate, dietary options, and clean-up procedures. You’ll also want to ask about any additional fees like cake cutting. If you know about these fees you can come up with solutions to avoid them. For example, hosting a dessert table instead of cake.

If your venue allows you to manage catering, you can meet with several caterers to find one you love within your budget. You can even get creative by hosting your favorite food truck or welcoming guests to contribute their family recipes. Just know that without catering, you’re likely responsible for clean-up.

Is There a Food and Beverage Minimum?

Some venues and caterers will have a minimum amount you need to spend on their services. Know in advance so you can adjust your guest list or menu options to make the most of the cost. This minimum may also put the venue or caterer out of your budget and you’ll want to look for other options.

Can We Bring Our Own Alcohol and Do You Supply a Bartender?

Many venues will have restrictions on who can serve alcohol and may require a licensed bartender on site. Some venues or caterers can cover this service, so ask about the cost and how long they’ll serve guests.

Some venues are more flexible and may allow you to bring your own beer, wine, or even hard liquor. This is a great way to save since you can buy the drinks you want to serve at retail price and potentially cheaper with a good sale.

Do You Have Décor We Can Borrow?

Your venue may have decorations you can use for your ceremony and reception for free or a rental fee. They may offer a variety of linen colors, a ceremony arch, curtains, and even simple centerpieces. If your venue offers it, it may be cheaper to rent from them to save on labor, transportation, and setup.

Do You Provide Audio/Visual Equipment?

Audio and visual equipment on-site means you’re prepared for reception speeches, announcements, slideshows, and other highlights. You may also decide to use the equipment to play a custom wedding playlist and save on a DJ or band, or reduce the hours you hire entertainment for.

Ask your venue what equipment they provide, who will be available to help troubleshoot tech issues, and how much A/V rental costs. Again, it’s likely cheaper on-site than shipping in an outside service. However, if you were already hiring a DJ you may be able to cut the cost of A/V.

There’s a lot to ask a wedding venue to determine if it fits your budget and vision. Use this venue comparison chart to keep track of costs, amenities, restrictions, and more to easily find the best venue for you. Know what you’re looking for before you start venue shopping, stick to your budget, and enjoy planning the beginning of the rest of your life with your best friend.