Nothing sucks money out of your bank account like a wedding (trust us, we know!) but there are ways to keep the costs lower. Here’s eight simple rules for wedding planning in NZ during a cost of living crisis
“I do… NOT have budget for that”.
That sentence will sound familiar to anyone who has ever planned a wedding ever – it seems like as soon as you mention the ‘W’ word your budget absolutely BALLOONS out.
The planning of the wedding comes after the high of getting engaged, and it’s a favourite part for some and just a plain ole burden for others. But at the end of the day, all of the planning really does come to fruition and the day ends with bringing people together. Can we put a price on that? Should we put a price on love? (Well, the cossie livs sure does try its best!)
No matter how you plan and how many family members and friends contribute cakes, flowers and DIY items for your wedding day, there are always going to be costs involved.
It doesn’t help when New Zealand heads into a recession (after a pandemic that has already postponed people tying the knot) and all you want to do is put a ring on it without breaking the bank.
Here’s some golden rules from wedding planner and owner of sustainable event planning service Rad Agency, Kate Radcliffe-Reid, who has seen eight years of ups, downs and everything else in between that goes on behind the scenes when couples plan their ‘big day’:
- Know your budget, and refer to it regularly. One way of boosting the budget is a longer engagement – allow for a longer lead time and put aside money each week. It is not uncommon for couples to open a ‘wedding’ account and transfer across $X each week. This allows you to ‘work backwards’ when budgeting, considering how many weeks it is until your big day and how much you can put into the account each week. Don’t rely on external contributions until you see them in your bank account.
- Do not, and I repeat, DO NOT increase your mortgage to pay for your wedding. What might seem like a quick fix is only going to cause issues later. Humans are not naturally good at thinking too far ahead so remind yourself that Future You does not want to be paying 6% interest on a large loan post nuptials.
- Consider your vision for the day. Decide with your partner what exactly it is that you want. This is a really important communication piece and one to have before enquiring with any vendors. More often than not this hasn’t happened and I will meet with a couple who may as well be speaking different languages when describing their dream day. A memorable moment: the groom – “I can’t wait to bike into the ceremony”. The bride – “that’s going to be hard on the beach?”.
- Prioritise your vendors. Once you have your vision sorted and you’re on the same page, it’s time to look at vendors. Write a list of all of the vendors you are going to need and prioritise your spend with them. Do florals mean the world to you or are you happy with backyard blooms? Have you got a caterer your heart is set on? Is entertainment a priority or are you happy with an iPad playing a Spotify playlist?
- Minimise where you can. Fewer the vendors, fewer the travel costs and email chains (saving you time – which is valuable too!). If one company can tick a few boxes, you will have one point of contact making set up and pack in day that much smoother. I once had a bride who had booked five vendors for hire, each travelling to the reception location 45 minutes out of town. What could have been a singular charge (if one vendor had sub-hired all of the other items on her behalf) became five travel costs, there AND back = $$$.
- Venue selection is critical. When looking at venue quotes don’t compare cost for cost – compare cost for inclusions. A venue that provides you with chairs, tables, a speaker and microphone and toilets… has saved you hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars on hire. If you are considering a marquee, stretch tent or tepee, consider the land it is going on and what facilities it is lacking. This can often be far more expensive than you think!
- Get ruthless with the guest list. You DON’T have to invite people who you haven’t met, don’t like or think you have to just because your parents and in-laws want you to. If you wouldn’t buy them dinner (and drinks), then is it worth inviting them? Some couples are now charging their guests to attend their weddings rather than buying them a gift…. but that is an article for another day.
- Favours aren’t it. Don’t feel the pressure to provide your guests with wedding favours, dessert (if you have a cake), or transport to and from your venue if money is tight. Nobody will know if your dress is second hand… seriously. The other bride wore it for one day and it probably cost her $3,000 or more.
Enjoy the wedding planning process and I hope these tips help keep the financial stress at bay!
If you’re finding it challenging to manage expenses, consider seeking guidance from a wedding planner over a one-hour consultation. Our ability to connect you with vendors efficiently can save both time and money. With a clear understanding of your vision for the day, we hold valuable insights into local vendors and their pricing structures.
