Three Ways to Make Planning Less Stressful

Are you trying to figure out how to plan your wedding, and just can’t seem to get a handle on things? Whether it’s the people, the venues or the overall cost, there are many factors that go into wedding planning that can be downright maddening — but most people would say that the prices are right up there. In 2012, the average cost for a wedding reception was $13,106! For most people living on a middle class budget, that is a lot of money. The good news for you and your significant other is that there are ways to save money, as well as your sanity.

• Don’t Please Your Parents – Instead of trying to figure out how to plan the perfect wedding for someone else, focus on the wedding that is perfect for you. Figuring out how to plan your wedding shouldn’t be a race to see how many heads you can make nod in approval. Instead, it should be a time where you make sure that you are the ones who are happy. It’s your day, after all, so instead of trying to impress the relatives with the highest chocolate fountain, a 10-piece orchestra or a dress that doesn’t suit your style, you’ll be better off in the end if you do what you and your partner want.
• Invite Those Closest to You – The more people you invite, the more expensive it’s going to be. Believe it or not, the number of couples with a wedding budget of $1 million or more doubled between 2011 and 2012! The last thing you should do is worry about looking at wedding reception venues that could hold every person you’ve met over the last 10 years. If you just want to have a small wedding for your family, there’s nothing wrong with that. You could also opt to have a small ceremony and intimate reception, but plan a bigger potluck-style celebration, to which you’ll invite lots of folks, down the road.
• Keep the Food Simple – Another thing that can get mighty complicated at wedding receptions is the food. In the end, all anyone really needs is one or two protein options, and a vegetarian meal. Many couples spring for elaborate buffets or high-end hors d’oeuvres, thinking this will appeal to their guests, but those who are there to celebrate your wedding really aren’t looking to be wined and dined. Opting for one or two drink options, instead of an open bar, could also lighten the financial load.

There are thousands of experts all claiming to know how to plan your wedding perfectly, and while they may know the business of fashionable and trendy weddings, they don’t know the needs of you and your significant other. At the end of the day, it’s a wedding for you two. Doing it for anyone else will only lead you to a more costly and stressful wedding.