Save, Spend Or Splurge? The *Ultimate* Shaadi Planning Guide!

The first step to planning a wedding is setting a budget. And hopefully, sticking to it! One of our lives’ biggest events, shaadi planning is one big project and overstepping the budget is more than just common. But before you get all panicky about it, here’s a little help. SAVE SPEND SPLURGE are the three keywords that can help you plan your wedding just the way you’ve always wanted it.

SAVE

1. The Wedding Trousseau

21 sarees, a few suits, anarkalis and shoes to match. Instead of an elaborate trousseau, opt for a few classic pieces that will last you a long time. Trends change every season and you may want to indulge in some shopping after the wedding too! Be practical and pick up basics for your everyday use rather than heavy outfits that’ll only hang in your cupboard for years to come.

2. Entertainment Factor

It is important to have an amazing entertainment event planned for all your shaadi functions. But this is also one of those departments you can really cut back on. It’s the people that make our desi weddings totally happening! Have a friend play emcee and let the big fat parivaar prepare a kickass performance. Alternatively, a professional DJ or a sufi band in your budget is great for the sangeet night.

3. The Wedding Cake

A 5 tier, 10 kg cake with carnations sure sounds exotic but also very expensive. Opt for a gorgeous one or two tiered cake instead. The quantity should be enough to share a celebratory slice with the family members. For the rest of the reception party, it’s wiser to serve a basic yet delicious cake. You can even go in for a spread of cupcakes in different flavours!

Image: Morvi Images

4. Invitations

We know how much this means to you but let’s admit that ultimately your card will be stacked away in a corner by all your guests. Think of cutesy e-invites or go old school with a colourful leaflet and a pretty envelope. Get creative and have a boarding pass as the card for your destination wedding or present a flowerpot and a pack of seeds that reads all the deets. After all, it’s what is within the card that matters!

Also read: 7 Things You CAN Cut Costs On If Your Wedding Is Over Budget!

SPEND

1. Wedding Decorations

Go a little extra to do up your venue, but don’t go all out without thinking it through. Floral decorations are the most expensive and you can save big by opting for seasonal flowers. Also, there are so many new ways and interesting elements to do up your venue on a budget! And for the ghar ka functions you can totally go DIY! Click here for ideas!

2. The Wedding Venue

Again, we’re in the middle here. Do your research until you find a place that fits the bill and is in your budget. Innovative decor and lighting can do wonders to better the look of your venue. A great way to cut costs is to have all your functions at the same property and crack a killer deal. Engagement in the lawns, mehendi by the pool and wedding in the banquet… Sounds fun, right?!

Image: Coolbluez Photography

3. The Shaadi Lehenga

You’ll probably spend the maximum time looking for your wedding lehenga! And it’s normal to have a big budget for it. But just don’t go no holds barred! After all, it’s only once that you’ll be wearing it! Look for colours and styles that you could possibly use later too. Make a realistic budget and stick to it. Also, a double dupatta and layered necklaces is a great way to make your outfit look heavier and more bridal.

4. The Glamourous Makeup

Nothing’s worse than poorly done makeup. And you don’t want to live with photographs that remind you of the horror. A great makeup artist is indeed a must. But also know that expensive does not always mean good. Look through portfolios, insist on trials and settle for the one who makes you look your best.

SPLURGE!!!

1. The Wedding Photographer

You’ve probably heard it a million times and we’re going to shout it out all over again! Your photographs are going to live with you forever. It’ll be the only memory you’ll have of this special day. And a great photographer can make things look even better than what they are. This one, we say, you’ve got to splurge on!

2. Shaadi Ka Khaana

At the end of the day, all people talk about is how good or not so good the food was. And no doubt, the food you serve to your guests is actually more important than the decor or the invitations. It’s not about how widespread the buffet is but more about the quality and standards of the dishes you serve. Go big with the catering, it’s best not to compromise on this one.

Image: Sonder Frames

Also read: 4 Brides Reveal Shaadi Splurges That Are Really NOT Worth It

3. Honeymoon Calling!

Girls, this is one holiday you’re going to remember for the rest of your life! And if we could, we’d save up everywhere else just to be able to splurge on the honeymoon. Pick your dream destination, book a luxe property and spend some much needed time relaxing with your hubby. Because this time once gone, will never come back!