Set the budget
- Decide total you can afford without going into debt.
- List priorities (venue, food, photos, etc.) and allocate more to what matters most.
- Build in a 10–15% buffer for surprises.
Track and save
- Open a separate savings account for wedding funds; auto-transfer each month.
- Get quotes from multiple vendors before booking.
- Read contracts; understand deposit and cancellation terms.
Trim costs
- Consider fewer guests, off-peak dates, or a smaller venue.
- Skip or limit extras that don't matter to you.
- Avoid putting everything on credit cards unless you can pay in full.