Wedding budgets aren’t always easy to plan, especially when you tally up the features you want in the banquet hall and total number of guests. While some people set a final amount and work around it, careful planning will avoid unnecessary costs. Below are several strategies to help you with this process so that you have the best wedding possible.

A Guide for Planning a Wedding Budget

1. Estimate Available Cash

Start by finding out how much you and your fiance have in savings. Then, determine the amount you’re willing to withdraw to cover wedding expenses. You should not use the entirety of the account to pay for the wedding, as this does not give you flexibility for the honeymoon or unexpected costs. If your parents and grandparents are helping out, add their contribution to the final amount.

2. Research All Aspects

Browse online for local banquet halls and wedding venues. Look through the list of services that come with the rental, as well as the basic costs for each location.

Then, schedule a tour at the ones that appeal to you the most and ask about customizing their wedding packages. For example, many of them offer in-house catering services, which can save you considerable money over hiring a third party.

3. Calculate Guest Count

From ordering invitations to selecting a menu, each additional person on the guest list will increase the budget. If you are getting catering through the banquet hall, find out how much they charge per plate. If you are trying to save money, considering limiting guests to those who are closest to you and your fiance.

4. Select Your Must-Haves

Every couple has an idea of what their dream wedding should look like, and defining the necessary features at the start of the planning process will simplify the experience. This could mean hiring a quality videographer, or securing an open bar for the guests. You may even forego these items and splurge on the honeymoon, instead. Whichever options you choose, subtract their cost from the budget immediately so that you can organize the rest of your wedding accordingly.

If you need a beautiful banquet hall to host your wedding reception, contact Havelock Social Hall in Lincoln, NE. This full-service event center has more than 20 years of experience and features rooms that can comfortably seat anywhere from 250 to 400 guests. Wedding rentals include a large dance floor, music and sound system options, and an open or cash bar. Learn more about all that this reception location has to offer by vising their website. Call (402) 467-3002 to request a tour.