As an example we decided to look at a few online calculators
and provide you some concrete examples of how pieces of a $25,000 budget (with
150 guests) can be allocated.
Bridal gown: Online calculators allocated an average of $1,500 to the complete cost of a bridal
gown. We are going to automatically deduct $200
for alterations and foundation garments (this is a conservative estimate),
This leaves us $1,300 to spend on the
gown of your dreams.
- With
$1,300 you can afford almost any gown at an establishment like David’s
Bridal (including Vera Wang’s new line)
- In
Bridal Gown Boutiques you will also find you can afford a gown by many of
the designers you see in magazines, including Alfred Angelo, DaVinci,
Watters and more.
- If you
are looking for something from a high-end designer, and are an “average”
size in a wedding gown (Size 6 – 10 regularly), be sure to check out local
trunk shows and sample sales. You may find your budget stretches a bit
more there.
Invitations: Online calculators allocated an average of $750
for invitations, and all stationary needs. This is inclusive of invitations,
postage, programs and any other “paper” needs.
- With
150 guests I am going to estimate that you will need 100 invitations (some
will be going to couples/families
- The
average wedding invitations costs $.61 to mail, so we immediately need to
allocate $61 in postage
- We
will allocate $1/Thank You card, plus $.44 in postage per card for a total
of $144 on Thank You Cards
- That
leaves $545 for all other
stationary needs. Let’s allocate $4
per invitation and have $145 left for all misc. stationary
- For $4
we found a wide range of options on Etsy.com, moderate selections
(including some pocket folds) through Carlson Crafts, or you may be able
to work with a local shop to create a custom DIY (Do-It-Yourself)
invitation
Floral & Décor: Online calculators allocated an average
of $1,800 for flowers and decoration.
- We had
to make a few more assumptions in this budget, so we are budgeting for 4
attendants on each side and a sit down dinner reception that will require
centerpieces.
- There
will be delivery and set-up fees so we are estimating that initial cost at
$200
- The
average bridal bouquet is $175.
This could be a large bouquet of wild seasonal flowers, an appropriately
sized hand tied bouquet of roses, tulips, daisies, or an eloquent
arrangement of orchids or calla lilies.
- You
should estimate $60 - $70 per
female attendant for her bouquet. This is typically a smaller version of
the brides bouquet, but may it may not be. It may be flowers in a similar
color family, or just a single orchid stem.
- The ceremony will most likely need one or
two large arrangements, and that total cost can be estimated at $300. These will be modest
arrangements (think Daisies, carnations, and some green and babies breathe
between the flowers of your choice)
- Assuming
15 dining tables at the reception this leaves approximately $55/centerpiece. For $55 you
should anticipate a small floral arrangement, or possible a duo or trio of
vases with submerged flowers and candles around it. Your florist should be
able to work with this budget to incorporate your colors and flowers of
choice.
Be sure to review the entirety of your budge before you
start spending, and as always, take your time and enjoy the process!
BBFN,
Olivia
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