PHOENIX — Getting married can be one of the most important decisions in a person's life. However, that big day can come with a big price tag if couples aren't careful.
From the moment the big question is asked to when they finally say 'I do' most couples will learn a wedding is the most expensive party they'll ever throw.
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For groom-to-be Matthew Erickson, the costs started adding up before he ever got on one knee to propose to Kazlyn Williamson.
“Especially for a groom, it all starts when you buy the ring,” said Erickson.
The couple quickly realized the cost of a wedding adds up fast, so they decided what they couldn’t live without on their wedding day.
“One of the things was a videographer,” said Williamson. “My mom did it at her wedding, and it was the best thing… we watch it every year, so I was like, I’d I would love to do that.”
While the cost of a videographer may have been more than the couple anticipated, they decided it was a must-have for their dream day.
That expense led Williamson to dive deep into research about how to cut costs in other places.
“She actually bought a book that lists different types of things you can budget for,” said Erickson.
That’s one of the things Kim Horn helps guide couples through. She’s the president and producer of the Arizona Wedding Show and a master wedding planner, one of 75 in the world.
Horn has planned weddings on a variety of budgets from $5,000 to $1.5 million.
Horn says on average, depending on the couple and their must-haves, it’s a wide range. She helps couples figure out what their budget is and how to get the most for their money.
“What I always tell couples is, choose your top three things that are important to you,” Horn explained.
One easy way to cut costs is to trim the guest list.
“If you invite 100 people instead of inviting 150, you just saved 10 grand,” said Horn.
When you get married can also have a big impact on the cost of your wedding.
“You’re going to pay more for peak time… March and April and October and November,” Horn said.
It's not just the time of year that can help cut costs. Horn always encourages couples to consider a brunch wedding or a weekday wedding, something Kazlyn and Matthew are doing.
“We’re actually getting married on a Monday,” said Williamson. “That helped us save a lot of money.”
Horn recommends choosing seasonal flowers and using local vendors. She explains that it's not just cost-effective but also good for the environment.
“You’re saving, you’re reducing that carbon footprint and you’re saving money on transportation,” Horn said.
The more you can plan ahead, Horn says the better you’ll be able to budget each month.
“You don’t want all of your vendors due at the same time,” said Horn.
It doesn't hurt to have a little luck on your side. Williamson won a wedding dress at the Arizona Wedding Show.
“That came with alterations and everything for free, so it was such a blessing,” she said.
No matter how much you spend, Erickson says you should just try to fall in love with the process.
If you have any Money Saving Monday ideas, be sure to email us at money@12news.com.
For more information about the Arizona Wedding Show is set for January. For more on the event click here.
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