Congratulations, you're now engaged and ready to start the planning process! While no couple has the same needs for their special day, setting a realistic budget will go a long way to creating your dream wedding. Knowing the must-haves is a great place to start as you begin to plan your ceremony and reception.

Venue

First on your priority list, most venues now offer the convenience of hosting both the ceremony and reception in one centralized location. If you already have a general idea of your vision for food, ambiance, décor and service, venue hunting will be much easier—you can simply request a quote from your top locations. To save money, ask potential vendors if they’re open to customizing a personal plan outside of their standard package, and also if it’s possible to sub out various items, such as offering fewer hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour. 

DJ

All too often, couples make the mistake of having a friend or family member play music at their wedding, but hiring a professional DJ will go a long way toward ensuring your celebration is one you and your guests remember for years to come.

In addition to playing a music selection guaranteed to keep guests grooving, a professional DJ also ensures the party moves along at just the right pace, overseeing the evening’s events such as the grand entrance, first dance, garter and bouquet toss, cake cutting, and more. Ask your venue for a list of vendors they recommend; DJs often offer discounted rates because of the relationship they have with them.     

Photographer and Videographer

One of the more important vendors you’ll choose, your photographer is there to help capture memories that will last a lifetime. While some couples try and save money by having a friend or relative snap pictures, quality photographs taken by a professional will better stand the test of time.

The same is true if you’re looking for someone to film the big day. A professional videographer is better able to capture the essence of the festivities; years down the road your future family will enjoy watching a video of that special day.

Dress

While the cost of a wedding gown can often seem out of reach, you’ll be able to slip into the one of your dreams if you first take time to draw up a reasonable budget and stick to it. Take along a trusted friend or family member when you go shopping, someone who’ll help you adhere to your price-point and give honest feedback about the style. Remember: This is your time to shine! Don’t skimp on finding a dress you feel beautiful in.

Now more than ever, brides are saving money on their weddings by making their own centerpieces, bouquets, invitations, favors, and more. Websites like Pinterest, The Knot and Here Comes the Guide all offer fantastic how-to tips to help you save money and time. By focusing the bulk of your budget on the venue, DJ, photographer/videographer and wedding dress, you’ll not only save a bundle on your big day, you’ll also have the one thing money can’t buy: Memories to last a lifetime.