We are blessed to live in a communal society where some of us don’t have to shoulder big financial obligations (like a wedding) in isolation. Family members chip in, friends buy aso-ebi and things work out in the end. However, that is not the case for everyone; at least, not in its entirety. You and bae might have to pay for your big day by yourselves – and that’s okay too. Today, we would explore certain strategies that would lighten the load and make for a smooth planning process leading up to your big day.

Start the discussion early

As soon as marriage becomes a card on the table, start talking about money. It might be awkward and uncomfortable at first but push past the feelings and discuss like two adults who are about to make one of the most important financial decisions of their lives. Yes, marriage is, among other things, a major financial decision; and a wedding is just the beginning. If you can’t work through the feelings that arise when you talk about money while planning for a wedding, you are in for an interesting ride because there would be even more intense money conversations after the wedding. Forever is a very long time.

Once the engagement ring is on, find a wedding planner

You might be tempted to wait until you have a wedding date to find a planner. Don’t. Both families might spend a long time going back and forth on potential dates, locations and colours but don’t let that stop you from getting a planner as soon as possible. Why? Because a planner would have access to all the big numbers that you would need to create a budget. The budget would give you a specific number to work toward.

Create a realistic timeline

Once you have a budget, a planner and a target number, look bae in the eye and ask the tough question: how long would it take us to come up with this amount of money? Let the outcome of that conversation be the primary determinant of your wedding date or at least, your wedding season.

Set up a savings account specifically for the wedding

This might be a great opportunity to see how you and bae manage money together. Set up a savings account that is separate from yours and bae’s personal accounts. Let that be the designated account for all wedding-related contributions and expenses.

Make monthly contributions

Once you have a target number and a target date, break the target number into monthly installmental payments. It would make the bulk amount less intimidating and would help you and bae stay organized as you plan your big day.

Breathe

Remember to take a deep breath, focus on each other and ensure that you are also planning for a great marriage and not just a great wedding. The day would come and go but your partner would be there forever.

I am here for you as always. Let me know if you have any questions at all by leaving a comment in the comments section.