The Wedding Budget: by JD Academy of Salon and Spa

Start your planning with a budget that won’t break the bank. Explore options for each category below by obtaining a few estimates for each item. This will help you determine how much you want to do yourself and what you want to contract out. Other budget forms are available at bridalmusings.com and weddingforward.com

VENUE SELECTION

Selecting a venue sets the tone for the entire wedding. Some venues require reservations more than a year in advance.

• Envision your dream day’s setting and theme.
• Decide if you will hold your reception at the same location as the ceremony.
• What wedding style do you prefer? Casual, rustic, formal, elegant, bohemian, exotic?
• How many people will you host?
• Do you prefer an outdoor or indoor ceremony?
• Do you prefer an outdoor or indoor reception?
• What is your budget for the venue?

Cost Savings Tips

Choosing a venue that can host both the ceremony and reception can save transportation time from one location to another.

Selecting an all-inclusive venue (one that will provide the food, beverages, tables, etc.) can save time and money and may eliminate your need for a wedding planner.

You may wish to consider a local country club such as Crow Canyon Country Club, The Bridges Golf Club, Orinda Country Club, and Blackhawk Country Club for an all-inclusive Bay Area, California venue. You can investigate more locations online at The Knot, Wedding Venues, www.theknot.com.

Another Option

Wineries make for beautiful wedding venues, and California has an ample supply. You may wish to consider Wente Vineyards, Club Los Meganos, The Estate Yountville, or Casa Real.

Heads Up

Consider the following if your venue is not all-inclusive.

• Who will cater your food?
• Who will provide and set up the tables and chairs (Venue or separate provider)?
• Who will provide and set up table clothes, napkins, place settings, silverware, and glassware?
• Are extra tables needed for cake/desserts, hors d’oeuvres, and presents?
• Does the venue require a wedding planner?
• Is the distance between the ceremony and reception close, or will signs be needed?
• Who will direct the vendors at the venue on the wedding day?
• Will additional lighting be needed?
• Is there a dance floor, or will one need to be rented?
• How many hours are allowed for venue usage?
• Are extra hours available? If so, at what cost? Will caterers need to add additional fees as well?

If there is a walking distance been the ceremony and the reception, will accommodations be needed for special guests? (Grandparents or anyone with special needs)? If so,

• Can the venue supply the needed transportation? (Golf Cart/Van)
• How will you secure the transportation? Is there a cost?
• Who will ensure the transportation is ready and available on the day and at the time needed?

JD Academy just published our Bridal Edition Magazine and it’s for sale at our Danville Location. Come on in and pick up a copy!