The Budget - Round 2

When I first got engaged (4 months ago) I anticipated a budget of $5,000, but my future husband helped me realize that 5K just isn't realistic in the Bay Area (California) with our expectations. So after finding our perfect venue that cost $5,000 alone (completely killing my original budget on just the site fee), I've estimated $15,000 as a more obtainable budget. I'm budgeting another $5,000 for food and beverages, $2,000 for photography (the one area that I wish I had a bigger budget), $1,000 for rentals (tables, chairs, dishes, etc.), $500 for gratuities, $300 for gifts/favors, $200 for DIY flowers (we're getting married outdoors with views of the bay/beach), $250 for invitations and our website, $250 for guest transportation, $250 for the officiant, and about $250 for miscellaneous stuff.

I guess I should also say that we are paying for the wedding. We are both older and well beyond getting assistance from our family (even if it was available). Plus, I like having full control of all of the decisions.

I should also say that I am not counting our rings or our attire in this budget. Frankly my ring just blows it all to hell and even though I saved a bundle on my dress, I think our attire is more of an individual choice than a wedding budget item.

The Budget - Round 1

When the Future Husband (FH) proposed, I was thrilled! Excited and ready to start planning the wonderful event! Being the frugal gal that I am, I immediately thought of the budget. $5,000 seems reasonable since it will be a small informal wedding with approximately 75 people. We do not envision an elaborate or even traditional wedding. It will be more like a fun reunion of family and friends. When I told my FH that I thought $5,000 would be enough, he politely responded that it just couldn't happen. He based this on a birthday party he had given me (for about 25 people) that had cost about a $1,000 with a pretty big discount from the restaurant where he knows the manager....

I still feel like it is possible to have a wedding in the Bay Area for $5,000. And, being the confident gal that I am, I immediately began researching the internet for "budget weddings" and so the story begins.....