A Guide to Planning for the Cost of Your Wedding

Dreaming of your perfect wedding is exciting, but when it comes to planning, the reality of costs can be daunting. From the venue to the flowers, catering to the dress, every detail adds up. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. Here’s how to navigate the financial planning of your special day.

Step 1: Set a Realistic Budget

While the average cost of a wedding in Ireland is said to be around €36,000 (see One Fab Day’s article here), the cost of your wedding will reflect your personal circumstances; your vision for the day and the finances you’ll have available.

The first step in planning for the cost of your wedding is setting a realistic budget. Consider your financial situation, along with contributions from your family, and determine how much you can afford to spend. Be honest with yourselves about what you value most for your big day, whether it's a lavish reception or a destination wedding. Allocate your budget accordingly.

Step 2: Prioritise Your Expenses

Once you have a budget in place, prioritise your expenses based on what matters most to you as a couple. Allocate the most significant portion of your budget to the aspects of the wedding that are non-negotiable, examples might include: the venue, photographer, and catering. Consider what you can compromise on without sacrificing your vision.

Step 3: Research and Compare Costs

Research is key to understanding the costs associated with different aspects of your wedding. Get quotes from multiple vendors and venues, and don’t hesitate to negotiate to get the best deal. Keep track of all your expenses to ensure you stay within your budget and avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

Step 4: Be Mindful of Hidden Costs

When planning your wedding budget, remember hidden costs can easily add up. These may include things like gratuities, corkage fees, and overtime charges—factor in these additional expenses to avoid any last-minute financial strain.

Step 5: Consider Alternative Options

Explore alternative options to save money without compromising on quality. For example, consider getting married during the off-peak season or on a weekday when venues and vendors may offer discounted rates. Opt for DIY decorations or enlist the help of talented friends and family members to cut costs without sacrificing style.

Step 6: Start Saving Early

Start saving for your wedding as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary financial stress. Set up a dedicated savings account and contribute to it regularly. Our teacher members can pay into their Comhar Linn savings account through their payroll every 2 weeks. This is free of charge and a simple way of making sure you save with each paycheque. Every little bit helps!

Step 7: Create a Contingency Fund

It’s essential to have a contingency fund to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise during the planning process. Aim to set aside around 10-15% of your total budget for unforeseen costs, such as last-minute vendor changes or emergency repairs.

Step 8: Stick to Your Budget

Finally, it’s crucial to stick to your budget throughout the planning process. Keep track of your expenses and make adjustments as needed to stay within your means. Remember that the most important thing is celebrating your love with family and friends, regardless of how much you spend.

Need some assistance with financing your wedding? 

If you would like to set up an automatic deduction from your salary to your Comhar Linn account talk to us

If you would like assistance in managing your bills and budgeting, check out our Budget Account which offers guidance and support as well as a 0% overdraft facility to make budgeting and managing your bills and savings easier for you!

If you are interested in borrowing for some or all of your wedding expenses contact us for a no-obligation wedding loan quote – or simply apply online or check out our online loan calculator (remember you only need €5 in your Comhar Linn account to apply for a loan, & we approve 99% of loan applications from our members).

Happy planning!