Paying for the Big Day
As exciting as your wedding day will be, it is just that—a day. Be mindful of how much you want to commit financially to the event.
- Set a realistic budget that you are both comfortable with
- Know how others will be contributing financially to the celebration
- Prioritize your expenses and create a payment calendar
- Determine where you are willing to settle for more affordable options
Subtle Wedding Day Expenses to Remember
It's easy to budget for bigger ticket items like your venue or dress, but remember that seemingly smaller expenses can add up quickly.
- Monetary tips for vendors, hair and makeup artists, musical entertainment, etc.
- Delivery fees for flowers, rental supplies, etc.
- Postage for invites and RSVP return envelopes
- Dress and suit/tux alterations
- Up charges for extended timeframes, cake cutting, upgraded furniture or table dressings, etc.
Paying for a Honeymoon
Your honeymoon is a chance to relax, celebrate, and create lasting memories — but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and a few smart strategies, you can enjoy your dream trip without creating long-term financial stress.
- Set a realistic honeymoon budget that includes travel, lodging, meals, activities, and a small emergency cushion.
- Use a travel rewards credit card to earn points, miles, or cash back — but plan to pay it off using wedding gift money.
- Take advantage of travel discounts through programs like AAA and CU Travel (see below).
- Consider a honeymoon registry where guests can contribute toward experiences or travel costs instead of traditional gifts.
- Watch for hidden costs like baggage fees, resort fees, international transaction fees, and factor them into your budget.
Plan for Your Post-Wedding Financial Future
What will getting married mean for your money-management style? To get the conversation started with your significant other, answer the following questions together:
- Will we be opening a joint account or keeping our finances separate?
- What debts are you currently paying?
- Who will be paying for what?
