Unless it is not the first time, most people who decide to get married have no experience in organizing a wedding. When starting the process, a lot of unexpected expenses arise that the future spouses did not even know existed, while as preparations progress, obstacles and impediments appear that increase the final bill. Thus, according to the website bodas.net, a wedding costs on average more than 21,000 euros, although the amount can be much higher in certain communities.
To avoid surprises, the Financial Users Association, Asufin, compiles some of the worst mistakes that can be made when organizing a wedding.
Budgeting
The first major mistake warned by the association is not having an initial budget or not adhering to it. “Before starting to make plans, sit down together and determine how much you are willing to spend on each aspect of the wedding. This will help you stay within your financial limits and avoid excessive expenses,” advise from the association.
As is logical, it is normal to focus on major expenses, such as the banquet or the dress, and forget about secondary costs, such as invitations, buses, or taxes.
Price Comparison
Even if all expenses are considered, it is important to compare prices for each service with different options. “Do not choose the first provider you see, whether it’s the venue, the photographer, or the catering. It is better to see several options and choose based on what you like and what does not exceed the budget,” recommend from Asufin.
Guestlist
Another significant source of expenses comes from the number of guests. If the engaged couple decides to have a small wedding and gradually adds to the guest list, the wedding budget will multiply; likewise, if there are many cancellations, the venue may require a penalty payment. In other words, “if the venue specifies a minimum number of guests (usually 150), consider cancellations because if not, you will have to pay a penalty for the missing people to reach 150,” exemplify from the association.
Unexpected Costs
Finally, Asufin recommends allocating a percentage (for example, 5%) of the budget to possible unexpected expenses. “If you don’t have to spend it, you will have it there for the honeymoon or for married life,” they point out.
In conclusion, Asufin recommends noting all possible expenses and monitoring them. Also, on the income in the form of gifts from guests (if they arrive).
