Budget

I think there is a misconception out there that weddings have to cost thousands upon thousands of dollars. While it’s true it will be an expensive event, I’m a firm believer you don’t need to spend your life savings, or take out a second mortgage to finance your wedding. Budget can be a scary word but by setting a firm budget you can achieve a wedding for the amount of money that will be right for you and your situation.

The first thing I ask a bride is “what is your budget?” You should always set your budget before any of the planning begins. It will be too difficult to set a budget after you have already ordered the dress, flowers and reception center. At that point you may have already blown past your budget!

If you are struggling with knowing how much to spend on a wedding I think the best first step is to decide what element of your wedding is most important to you. This will help determine which aspect of your wedding will take up the most money. For some brides this might be the dress; for others it is the photography. Whatever it is for you, it is smart to identify this element before any of your planning begins, and before you set your budget.

Don’t feel bad if you don’t have a ton of money to spend on your wedding. Like I said before, I absolutely believe you can plan a wedding on a budget and I think it’s very important to always have that budget in mind during the planning process. There are many ways you will be able to put your own personal touches into your wedding, and in the end that is what your special day should be about.

Weather

Spring weddings are accompanied by an unexpected and uncontrollable element: weather.  Especially in a four-season state like Utah, you never know what kind of weather you will get on your wedding day. It's a good idea to be prepared for all weather situations.  Preparing beforehand should help alleviate some of your stress in case you happen to wake up on your wedding day and there are dark clouds looming.

If possible, talk to your reception center and see if they have an indoor/outdoor option. That way your festivities can be moved inside in case of bad weather. If they don't have an indoor option, ask about tents or other coverings.

Another good idea is to have a coat, cape or shawl on hand in case the temperature drops. This way you won't need to cover up your wedding dress with someone's coat; you will be prepared with something that compliments your ensemble.

Have some fun, colorful umbrellas on hand in case it rains. Your guests will be very appreciative and that way you can control the color scheme of the umbrella's instead of everyone bringing their own.

Of course you will cross your fingers for good weather on your special day, but sadly the weather is one of those things you can't control. Prepare for the worst and then you can hopefully keep this stress of your shoulders.