WHAT’S THE BUDGET?
Maybe you went the courthouse route not because of scheduling issues, but because it just wasn’t financially responsible to throw a wedding that could be compared to the Kardashians. The average wedding in 2014 cost nearly $30,000. When my husband and I talked about the possibility of doing a reception for family that missed our elopement, we had to balance the cost against the debt we could pay off, the savings we could grow, and the trips we need to take to visit each other since we’re dual military. As we get older, the desire to be responsible with our finances outweighs the fact that my dad didn’t get to walk me down the aisle. (Check out Easy Budgeting Tips here.)
However, if you had a wedding fund going and didn’t stop saving just because you had to adjust your original wedding ideas, then get to planning! There is no reason you shouldn’t have the wedding you’ve dreamed of if it fits within your budget. Just like with the traditional wedding, there is no reason to break the bank on just one day. Write down what you are able to spend on each aspect of the event and make sure you stick to it! You’ve already started your life together as man and wife so a renewal is no reason to go overboard on your accounts with just a celebration.
No matter how you decide to celebrate, a small elopement with no follow-up fanfare or a courthouse wedding with a huge reception, remember that the wedding is just the beginning. The marriage is the important part!
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