You're engaged! You've told your family and you're realizing that this isn't just about the engagement ring...you have a wedding to plan! So where to start?
 

Step #1 Define Your Dream Wedding

As you sit down to begin, first brainstorm with your fiancé about your MUST-HAVES. Pin-point exactly what will make your wedding day truly special for you both. For example, do you dream of throwing an amazing party with friends and family, or maybe you're thinking outdoorsy and intimate? What kind of scenery or location interests you? While you brainstorm, pick what truly speaks to you and record it. Don't forget it. (Remember: what's important to YOU. Not parents, friends, or family. It is your day).
A wise tip- Decide on about 1-3 must-haves for you and your fiancé. These must-haves should remain the foundation of your wedding as you continue planning and adding upon it. 

Once you have these 1-3 must-haves, you have a set vision for your wedding to plan upon. Congrats! Feel a load of weight off your shoulders because no matter what, those must-haves for a special day will be there. 
 

Step #2 Handy-Dandy Budget Calculator

I highly recommend this useful wedding budget calculator provided by The Knot. It covers everything that needs to be considered in a wedding budget with recommended spending amounts. Simply fill in an estimate for each category and see where your total ends up. You'll find out quickly where you'll need to lower costs or even have room to splurge. For an even more realistic approach, see real weddings categorized by budget along with tips and advice from the brides afterwards.
 

Step #3 Spending Rule-Of-Thumb

Reception will consist of approximately 50% of the budget. It's important for your friends and family to be comfortable and have a fabulous time! Food, drinks, seating, venue... This is the largest spending area.
Photography and music is approximately 10%. This should be the second-largest spending area. Photography is by far the MOST important element of your day. After everything is done and gone in a flash, all you have left are the documented photographs of those flowers you spent so much on...the dress you will wear that one day...and most importantly, the priceless smiles and moments spent with friends and family. Set aside a decent amount for a photographer you love. And get excited about it! Hiring an artist you enjoy is rewarding and you won't regret it for one moment.
 

Step #4 The Money Talk

Simply be honest- with yourself, your fiancé, and your family. Determine how much money you can save over the period of your engagement to put towards your wedding. Once you’ve calculated that budget total, then you’re in the clear to start making decisions and putting down deposits. It is best to have plans in place prior to talking to family. Start off by expressing what's most important and then mention specifically where you could use the help to make your vision come true.
 

Step #5 Cut Costs Whenever You Can

Think about something you want before right away spending money on it. For instance, hire talented family members! Have someone play the guitar or sing at the ceremony, arrange bouquets, or construct something nifty such as a dance floor or beer bar. And certainly hire on help if you're looking into DIY projects. These can be much more time-consuming than those step-by-step guides makes them seem. You'll find more often than not, family is excited to offer a hand and have a role in the big day! Once you’ve found ways to save money where you can, you’ll then be able to invest it in the most important aspects of your day such as your photography and videography! When all is said and done, the only thing you’ll have to keep and remember your wedding day by are the photos. It’s so important to get a photographer who has a style you absolutely love and a personality that you get along with! If you’re looking for a photographer now, get in touch - I’d love to chat and help you get started!

So now that you have a better idea of costs and what your budget entails, I advise to stick to it. Being wise about money now will reward you in the future. And keep in mind: When faced with having to spend more, first look at all options, research advice, and innovate as much as possible. You'll find that a lot things are possible when you stop to think about it for a moment. :)

Good luck and look back here to see what can be checked off the list next!
-Ashley