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Step 1: Set your budget Manage your planning by tracking expenses Return to articles index | Photo feature: Your Dream Wedding on a Budget
It makes far more sense to figure out what you can afford. Whether the couple does everything from their own resources, or if families help, you should start with a firm amount. This should be based on what you have in the bank, or can afford to pay off in a reasonable time. For comparison, the national median for wedding expenses in 2008 was $22,000, down from $27,500 in 2007. North Carolina averages run a couple thousand less. Once you know what you can spend, you can make intelligent decisions about everything from the size of your guest list to the menu for your reception. Spreadsheet software is a great tool to help you calculate how each piece fits into your budget. As you get actual price quotes you can plug them in and adjust percentages if necessary. Here is a typical breakdown you may find helpful to get started. Related photo feature Your dream wedding on a budget.  to tips from wedding professionals. Spreadsheet software, such as the widely available Microsoft Excel, makes budget calculations a snap. Return to articles index |
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