Tag:

budget

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352- Big Wedding, Small Budget- Bridechilla Claire

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

This episode of Bridechilla is full of some great wedding ideas on a budget. What is the appropriate amount of money to spend on a wedding? How can you have the wedding of your dreams without going completely bankrupt? The good news is, you don’t have to break the bank to have a fantastic wedding. But you do have to make a plan and stick to it. On today’s Bridechilla podcast, you’ll hear from Bridechilla Claire who planned a wedding for 400 people for only $15,000. She shares some tips and tricks for saving money and offers encouragement for how you can have a great wedding even on a limited budget.

Listen to episode 352 of Bridechilla

Sticker shock is a huge thing. I know a lot of us start wedding planning and have a complete meltdown when you realize how much stuff actually costs or how much people are willing to pay for things.

How big of a budget do you need for your wedding?

There is no universal budget for a wedding. The cost often depends on the location in which you live and the individual circumstances related to your wedding. So how do you go about setting a budget. And how can you avoid the dreaded sticker shock of planning a wedding? Having a budget doesn’t mean your cheap. It just means you are choosing to focus on what is most important to you. Your budget should be guided by your priorities. Once you’ve established what is non negotiable, then you can determine how to best allocate your money. Hear more tips for how to sidestep sticker shock on this week’s podcast.

Photo by Sladjana Karvounis

Decide what matters most

Bridechilla Claire is an inspiration. She reminds us that you don’t have to spend tons of money to have a great time planning your wedding. The key is to be flexible and creative. Claire and her fiance decided that one non negotiable for them was the people. Having 400 guests is no small party. But rather than sacrifice and have to cut the guest list, they decided to compromise on other details that weren’t as important to them. There are so many details that seem important, but the go virtually unnoticed by most people who come to the wedding. Skip those details and focus on what really matters. Listen as Claire share more wedding ideas on a budget during this episode.

It’s time to be a satisficer

Claire warns against the dangers of trying to maximize every decision. There are going to be some plans that fall through. There are also going to be some things that you want that you may have to cut in order to stay on budget. If your priorities are already set, then you’ll be able to handle those kinds of situations in stride. Claire also introduces a term in this episode that is helpful when making the many decisions that come with planning a wedding. She encourages others to be a satisficer. Listen to this episode to hear exactly what that means and how you can become one.

Photo by Jazmin Quaynor

Cute and creative wedding ideas on a budget

Weddings are all about the people and the place. The greatest cost will be feeding the people and providing the place for all of them to gather. It might be helpful to consider function over form when it comes to the wedding venue. You don’t have to rent the most expensive venue in order to accommodate your guests. Find a budget friendly venue and use your creativity to make it more appealing. There are also creative ways to provide food for the wedding. Claire shares how a Costco membership made a huge difference in the way she is going to feed her guest. Listen to this episode of the Bridechilla podcast for more cute and creative wedding ideas on a budget.

Photo by rawpixel 

Listen to episode 352 of Bridechilla

Show Highlights

  • [2:21] This episode is a call back to a previous episode with Bridechilla episode related to wedding budget.

  • [6:29] Introduction of Bridechilla Claire, who organized a wedding for 400 people for only $15,000.

  • [10:51] The details of how Claire is pulling off planning her wedding with such a strict budget.

  • [12:15] Being flexible and creative, avoiding the trap of trying to maximize every decision by focusing on what is most important.  

  • [18:00] The biggest expenditures for a wedding are the people and the venue

  • [26:44] Claire talks about how investing in a Costco membership helped with essentials for the wedding

  • [28:18] Lean on your community to help with decorations and set up for the wedding

  • [32:50] Find a way to make things special and spend quality time with those closest to you.

Memorable Quotes

  • “Sticker shock is a huge thing. I know a lot of us start wedding planning and have a complete meltdown when you realize how much stuff actually costs or how much people are willing to pay for things.”

  • “You can have a fun, nice wedding and it not cost you a total arm and a leg.”

  • “Be a satisficer. Don’t try to maximize every decision.”

  • “Weddings are about people, places and things, according to kindergarten.”

  • “It’s all about flexibility and it’s all about saying no to the idea that we have to do things a certain way.“

Meet This Episode’s Guest

Bridechilla Claire left a voicemail explaining how she planned her wedding for 400 people and only spent $15,000. Throughout the episode she shares some of the tips and tricks that she’s discovered while planning her own wedding. From utilizing a free venue, to leveraging a Costco membership, Claire has a ton of great input for wedding ideas on a budget.

With thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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345- Bridechilla Money Saving Tips Part 2

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

In Part 2 of Bridechilla Best money Saving Tips, Aleisha shares some of the Bridechilla Communities most successful ways to think laterally when it comes to getting bargains and using their budget in the most productive and best way possible (and your guests will never notice the difference). If you missed Part 1, be sure to check it out for more tips.
You don’t have to spend loads of money to have the wedding of your dreams. So tune in to hear some creative and practical ideas for saving money while planning your wedding. 

Listen to the Bridechilla episode

Wedding dresses don't have to cost as much as a car

I got my dress second hand at this bridal consignment shop. What should have been $1200 ended up only costing $600 and I can sell it back to the same store when I'm done. We also utilized coupons like crazy. We slowly built up our DIY crafts by using the 50% coupons at Michaels and a local wedding coupon book. Bridechilla Chelse

I fell in love with a gown at BHLDN but it was way out of my desired price range, especially accounting for alterations. I checked Poshmark and found the exact dress, altered to my EXACT height, in my exact size, for HALF of the new price (before alterations). Plus, I love that I was able to help a gal recoup some wedding costs! We both won.
Bridechilla Rochelle 

I know hiring a dress is a HUGE money saver for a lot of people - but for those who, for whatever reason, may prefer to buy it, I got just over £1000 off my wedding dress because it was “last season” (who knew that could be a thing for wedding dresses)! This was at the end of the summer when the shops were looking to get rid of old stock to free up space on the rack. It’s a sample size (which tend to be about a UK 12 I think) so less choice in terms of size, but it might help a few people!
Bridechilla Harriet

Money Saving tips Wedding Dress Shopping- Rack BridechillaPhoto by Charisse Kenion

A Wedding Cake doesn't have to 'look' like a wedding cake!

FH and I wanted to get our cake from his favorite bakery in Boston but it would be $1200 for a wedding cake to feed the number of people we’re having. The solution? Buy regular cakes. We’re having a small cutting cake and ordering half sheet cakes for the rest. Total cost? About $350. That’s almost a 75% savings and we’re getting the same delicious cake, just sans tiers. 
Bridechilla Rochelle 

A Waffle wedding cake? Yes please? 

Also instead of having a wedding cake neither of us care about, were having a stack of waffles, that we can make ahead of time and freeze, then defrost and decorate nearer the day. It'll probs cost us £80 including buying a waffle maker (that I will use daily because waffles ♥️)
Bridechilla Kat

Money Saving tips

Photo by Christin Hume

For many Bridechillas, a long engagement is the key to planning a budget friendly wedding

Biggest tip that is totally not doable/desirable for everyone, just something we fell into and it has been SO worth it - long. Engagement.
We are 17 months into a 27 month engagement. We didn't plan it that way. We became engaged in 2017 and with other family weddings in 2018, pushed the wedding to 2019. So so sooooo worth it.

Stress has been minimal: everything is basically planned and ready to go, we were able to take our time deciding on vendors and aesthetic, didn't feel rushed to make any decisions, etc. And financially it is AWESOME - we just finished saving up our entire budget last week! We will be able to pay for our entire wedding in CASH.

The biggest thing was I was able to take note of all the sales from places I wanted to get decor from and could wait until they happened again the following year. That way I wasn't rushing into buying stuff but could REALLY know what I wanted and still get it on sale!

Also, have a bunch of time to do all the DIY my heart desires without stressing about it. I started making robes for my bridal party a month ago and then life happened again and I got busy. But next month I'll have more free time, and I don't feel pressured because I still have 10 months to finish them! Centerpieces are almost done, and they'll just be sitting in a box until August, which is fine with me - at least they'll be DONE.

Now with 10 months to go, we're keeping up our budget habits (picking up side jobs when we can, cooking at home more, putting every extra penny into savings, etc.) So we can do a mini-moon after the wedding, and a totally kick-ass honeymoon in 2020 ?

Yeah, sometimes I just want to be MARRIED UGH. But it will be so worth it when we walk away from the big day completely debt free!
Bridechilla Sarah

Wedding Budgeting- Money Saving tips

Photo by Toa Heftiba

Aleisha's money saving Takeaways

  • Join EBATES! It's a money saving cash back website that will give you big discounts (extra coupons) and cash back on many of your online purchases 
  • Plan before you buy. Take your time. Don't feel rushed.  It will be there tomorrow and if it's not you will find something else!
  • Think laterally when it comes to buying decor and attire...it doesn't have to be labeled 'wedding' to be a part of your wedding!
  • Consider renting whatever you can (and don't want to sell or keep later)! It's good for your budget and good for the environment.

Thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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344-Bridechilla Money Saving Tips Part 1

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

Are you ready for some money saving tips? Wedding planning can be expensive. It’s easy to burn through your budget and overspend without even realizing it. But the Bridechilla podcast is here to help. On this episode, Aleisha shares money saving tips from here on extensive experience as well as from you, the listeners. You don’t have to spend loads of money to have the wedding of your dreams. So tune in to hear some creative and practical ideas for saving money while planning your wedding.

Listen to the episode

Nifty Thrifty Thrift Store Shopping

What better place to be thrifty than at a thrift store. Many wedding items can be found at second hand stores. While it might take some work convincing yourself that not everything you use in your wedding has to be new, you might find that you’ve saved a lot of money by taking this approach. One listener shares how she saved money on table decorations and serving dishes by buying some classy, gently used items from a local thrift store.

Stop. Think. Buy?

In the excitement of planning your wedding and purchasing items for your special day, it is easy to give in to impulse buying. However, purchasing without planning can blow your budget and leave you with a bunch of stuff that you might not even need. So how can you avoid giving in to this very real temptation? During the podcast, Aleisha discusses how to plan before purchasing, and how to prioritize substance over stuff. Sometimes just a moment of clarity and thought can save you from unnecessary purchases and buyers regret.

Photo by Jordan Arnold

Saving money while saving the planet

One unique way to save money on your wedding is to plan a sustainable, environmentally friendly wedding. Rather than using items that will just be thrown away after the wedding, consider decorating or serving with items that can either be reused or given away following the ceremony. There are creative ways to plan a sustainable wedding and you don’t have to make a big fuss about it. Listen to some great listener tips for how to be environmentally friendly and save money during this episode.

More Money Saving Tips

Just because you want to save money doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your dreams. It also doesn’t mean you are cheap. Aleisha encourages making room in your budget for splurge items. Decided with your partner what are non-negotiables and build your budget around those items. Then find unique ways to budget for the other details that aren’t as important. The Bridechilla podcast community has some great ideas that they share during this episode. Listen now for more wedding planning money saving tips. And get ready for part two next week.

Photo by Marisa Morton

Show Highlights

  • [0:56] What do you do to save money during wedding planning?

  • [3:57] Saving money on decor and flowers

  • [8:00] Because impulse buying can break the bank, here are some tips to help you think before you buy

  • [11:08] How planning an environmentally friendly, sustainable wedding can save money

  • [14:30] A listener shares how she saved money by taking advantage of the talents and resources friends and family have

  • [16:55] Work with your partner to determine what splurge items you want to get for your wedding

  • [24:53] Test your future marriage and save money in the process by shopping at Ikea for wedding items

  • [30:00] Utilizing the apps Honey and Ebates

Memorable Quotes

  • “Thrift stores, church sales and garage sales have a lot to offer and they are a good activity to do with your future spouse.”

  • “Look at the people around you and don’t try to go for the glitz and the glam because it’s really your day for your friends and family to celebrate your love.”

  • “For my wedding purchases, I never buy before walking away and thinking.”

  • “No one ever talks about post-wedding clean up and all the shit that you end up taking back to your house or apartment, and then going ‘what the hell am I going to do with all this stuff.’”

  • “It feels so good to literally delete entire rows of from quote typical wedding budget spreadsheets.”

Show image by Emma Frances Logan

Thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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342- Bridechilla Wedding Planning Q&A

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

This week’s Bridechilla is a special episode of wedding planning Q&A with you, the listeners.

Bridechilla is all about community. Even through the medium of a podcast, we are able to come together to support, encourage, and learn from one another. Sometimes it’s nice to just hand the show over to you and let you ask those pressing wedding planning questions that you want answered. And I promise to do my best to answer them.

Listen to Bridechilla episode 342

Help! I Can’t Stop Buying Stuff!

When planning a wedding, it is easy to get caught up in buying a lot of stuff. Some people buy for the thrill of it and some buy as a way to cope with the stress of wedding planning. How can you avoid overspending? Marie Kondo gave some great advice about how to determine whether or not to make a purchase. You must be able to assess the amount of joy a given purchase will bring. It’s a great way to prioritize and decide if you really should buy or not. Listen as I share how Marie Kondo’s advice can help you make better buying decisions as you plan your wedding.

Striving for a healthy body image

Body image is such an important topic to discuss. Everyone has their own body image issues. Some brides feel like they are too overweight and others are struggling to gain weight for their big day. The starting point to health is being honest with yourself and others. Support from friends and family is key to working through these types of issues. The main idea is to look after yourself and take care of your body.

A mum as a bridesmaid?

Being a bridechilla is all about choosing what makes you happy and doing it. Even if you choose to do some things in your wedding that are unconventional, you shouldn’t let anything keep you from it. One question that we talk about on this episode comes from a bridechilla who wants her mum to be a bridesmaid. Her partner is not on board. Is it ok to have your mum as a bridesmaid? Is there any reason why she shouldn’t be a part of your wedding party if that’s what you want? Find out what I think during this episode.

Photo by Hermes Rivera

Getting along with your wedding planner

When planning your wedding, you don’t have to like your vendors. But you do have to be able to work with them. You are paying them to do their job. What do you do if you are having a hard time getting along with your wedding planner? We talk about the importance of communication and how a crucial conversation can help resolve tension and conflict. Listen as I take on more of your question and try to give helpful answers to your wedding planning questions during this episode of Bridechilla.

Photo by rawpixel

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Show Highlights

  • [2:15] Caitlin, also an Aussie, thinks I am funny and wanted to share that a recent episode about Wedding Donors (Episode 337) helped her after her in-laws were very objectionable to her not getting married in a church.
  • [7:45] Amelia wants some advice about planning a bilingual wedding celebration
  • [12:20] Sam another Aussie is getting married five hours away from their hometown and wants tip to curb her buying binges.
  • [18:30] After listening to a Bridechilla body image episode, Taylor became motivated to make positive changes to her routine and lifestyle. She was inspired to share her story with the Bridechilla podcast
  • [22:58] Alyce really wants to ask her mum to be her Bridesmaid but her partner thinks that it it weird. What should she do?
  • [25:41] Leanne Is having communication issues with her wedding planner. She thinks that her wedding planner might not even like her. How should she handle it?
  • [31:06] Megan Is planning to elope and plan a surprise wedding for their family and friends in conjunction with her new husband’s 40th birthday, but how do they ensure that everyone turns up and doesn’t bail on the party?
  • [33:41] Cecily is struggling with daytime brunch timeline and the logistics that come with it

Episode Resources

Memorable Quotes

  • “Does this need to be bought? What’s it going to do to dolphins?”
  • “I think we are all going through our own body images thoughts and feelings and everyone should be acknowledged and made to feel supported no matter what.”
  • “The big thing with timelines is to work backwards”
  • “When it comes down to it, vendors have to do their job. You are paying them to do their job.”

Thanks to our Bridechilla partners

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338- Bridechilla Alcohol Wedding Planning Q&A

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

When it comes to alcohol and weddings, there are lots of decision to be made. If you are self-catering (or can provide your own alcohol) how much do you buy? What if your guests aren't big drinkers? What if you don't like wine? Can you return alcohol that isn't used?
I am joined by the lady with all of the answers in this Bridechilla wedding alcohol Q&A episode, Jacki Strum, founder of ThirstyNest, first wine & spirits registry for the modern couple.

Listen to episode 338

Why "Stock-the-Bar" Parties Are the Next Big Wedding Trend

As you may have noticed, the current generation of brides and grooms are get married significantly later than their parental counterparts. This change in turn has created a new trend in lieu of a traditional Bridal Shower called “Stock-the-Bar Parties.” After all, you probably already have a toaster and dish towels.

What is a Stock-the-Bar Party? This super fun alternative is perfect if you've already created a home with your fiancé. Rather than registering for things you may already have or don’t need, you can register for your entire home bar and wine collection. Wouldn't you rather a bottle of bubbly than a gravy boat? Below is a breakdown of how we would recommend setting up your gift registry for the perfect Stock-the-Bar Party with ThirstyNest – the first wine and spirits registry for the modern couple.

Bridechilla Alcohol Wedding Planning Q&A

Photo by Jacalyn Beales

Wine

Add a mix of both special age-worthy wines and casual options. For the age-worthy wines, about a case worth (12 bottles) is the right amount. You'll only need a small to moderate wine fridge for safekeeping, and it's easy to move. There's something so special about saving bottles to open together for a special occasion. Some of my favorites would be Cristal Champagne 2009 Louis Roederer for a one-year anniversary or Robert Mondavi 2013 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon for a 5-year anniversary.

As for everyday wines, it's all about whatever the couple likes, which is what makes the registry such a great tool. They can make their selection really personal. I like to have my favorite workhorse wines around that pair with all different kinds of dishes and occasions. That includes dry rosé like Belle Glos 2016 Sonoma Pinot Noir Blanc — which is just as fitting for a trip to the beach as it is with a holiday meal. Lastly, some lovely Oregon Pinot like this Sokol Blosser 2015 Dundee Hills Estate Pinot Noir, that can be enjoyed with lean meat dishes or even a hearty vegetarian meal.

Bridechilla Alcohol Wedding Planning Q&A

Spirits

On the spirits side, as with anything wedding related, it really depends on your personal taste as a couple. My recommendation would be a good mix of cocktail essentials and some dram-worthy brown spirits. On the cocktail end — a great vodka, gin, whiskey, and tequila, along with your stirring mixers such as vermouth and Campari, are a good place to start to build your bar. In the sipping neat section, I like to have one fantastic bourbon and one classic smoky Scotch.

Drinkware

As for the serving tools, the absolute must-haves would be a great set of wine glasses, a wine opener, and some cocktail tools. This 16-piece wine glass set ($220 for set of 16 glasses) is gorgeous and comes with a 10-year warranty in case you break a glass. That means you can feel comfortable using them on a weeknight or with company. I love a gorgeous personalized wine opener and decanter along with a good set of cocktail tools and glasses.

Bridechilla Alcohol Wedding Planning Q&A

Photo by Alexandra Golovac 

Storage

Lastly, a place to put all of those amazing gifts! For wine, there are a variety of wine fridges and racks available that range in size to fit a collection from 6 to 300 bottles. A good place to start would be in the 32-bottle range so you can store your gifts with a little room to grow. For spirits and tools, bar carts are especially fabulous and you can even find one that works for a small-space living.

Hosting a Stock-the-Bar Party is the perfect solution for today’s couple. You can level up on your ability to entertain while creating new experiences with your friends and family. Don't worry: setting up the registry will be almost as fun as enjoying your gifts with ThirstyNest. Feel free to reach out with any questions to help you get started at hello@thirstynest.com.

With thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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333-All-Inclusive Wedding Packages- Are They for Me?

by Paulette Alkire
written by Paulette Alkire

You may never again encounter a project that involves as many details as your wedding. Attendants, family, guests, vendors – there are layers upon layers of people needing direction and answers, not to mention all of the decisions you have to make! If you feel like the process is simply too much for a Bridechilla to handle, you should seriously consider booking an all-inclusive wedding package. My guest today is ​Paulette Alkire, a wedding planner from the fabulous Chalet View Lodge.
Be sure to read her blog below and check out some of the gorgeous images from a recent wedding held at the lodge.  

Listen to episode 333 of Bridechilla

By Paulette Alkire from Chalet View Lodge

What does all-inclusive mean in the wedding world?

An all-inclusive wedding refers to an event production 'package’ that includes almost everything you need for your wedding. While these packages vary from site to site, often they include the big things like the venue or space, along with rentals, linens, table settings, and chairs. Some inclusive wedding packages also include other vendor products or services like bartending, flowers, a DJ, and the cake with champagne toast. Many venues include the services of a wedding planner or coordinator.

Why is an all-inclusive wedding package a great fit for a Bridechilla?

A busy Bridechilla doesn’t have time to mull over the endless logistics of her wedding! Think of the benefits you would enjoy if a professional planner or coordinator organized all of them for you. No more worrying about delivery times or checking in on the wedding day to make sure it’s running smoothly.

Don’t worry, though. Choosing an all-inclusive wedding doesn’t mean sacrificing your individuality or style. Your vendors will still consult with you or your wedding planner to find out what inspires you! The flavors, colors, textures and entertainment will definitely be all you!

Get Inspired

If you are a Bridechilla who has no idea what you want for your special day, all-inclusive packages can provide you with the bones, or a basic structure. This allows you to have more time and be more creative with the fun stuff, like décor details and menu tastings.

Save Money

Packaging can also save you money over purchasing services a la carte. Bundling rentals, set up fees, venue fees, and other production aspects gives vendors an incentive to extend special rates or extra services. Sticking to your wedding budget becomes much easier, and what is provided at a comparatively low price point can end up being much more than if you were to rent or hire each separate piece.

There are many reasons a Bridechilla might choose an all-inclusive wedding package over putting her event together piece by piece. If you want a high value, low stress wedding experience ask your venue manager if you have the option of upgrading your agreement. Then enjoy the freedom that comes with knowing you will enjoy an amazing celebration of your love!

Paulette Alkire and Sammi Shea are Wedding Planners at Chalet View Lodge. Chalet View Lodge is a full-service wedding venue as well as a boutique resort, and spa tucked in the mountains of Graeagle, California. This unique property boasts ten beautiful acres that creates the perfect private wedding oasis.

Images by Kay Kroshus 

Thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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332- Choosing the Right Wedding Vendors

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

As a lover of all things wedding and a fierce cheerleader for marriage equality, Brittny Drye, Founder and Editor in Chief of Love Inc decided to marry her two passions and create a resource where all couples—gay, straight and lesbian—can be equally represented. Brittny’s focus is that all couple have the same positive experience as everyone else, while avoiding closed-minded vendors. In this episode of Bridechilla, Brittny shares her best tips for finding vendors that you click with, that will turn your 'dreams' into reality and will share your ethos of weddings and marriage. 

Listen to episode 332 of Bridechilla

Episode 332- Show Highlights:

  • Why all vendors are not created equal
  • The problem with some vendors and LGBT couples
  • Why it’s important to find equally minded vendors
  • Britney’s suggestions on finding top vendors
  • Why it’s necessary to always have a contract
  • The best social media apps to use as a valuable resource
  • How Socio-political beliefs affect choosing a vendor and is it something to consider?
  • What to look for on a vendor’s website that speaks the most about them
  • Why you should really consider using a directory
  • Read this classic Bridechilla post about choosing equality minded vendors
Memorable Quotes:

“You want to work with wedding professionals whose values align with yours, and they want to be there and want to celebrate your love.”

“We’re all just doing our best and trying to make our mark on the world.”

[When looking at a vendor’s website.] “The voice they use tells a lot about the couple they’re trying to attract.”

Meet Brittny Dry

As a lover of all things wedding and a fierce cheerleader for marriage equality, Brittny decided to marry her two passions and create a resource where all couples—gay, straight and lesbian—can be equally represented. Armed with seven years in both print and online lifestyle journalism, she dove headfirst into this passion project in 2013 and Love Inc. was born.
She's inspired every day by the couples that grace our pages, from the can’t-live-without-you grasps to the gentle sweeping away of a happy tear, the love that they so clearly have for each other is intoxicating, and drives her to create the best product possible … while enjoying every second of it.

Read Brittny's Love Inc, posts

​​​​Episode Resources:

Love Inc Mag

Love Inc Mag on Twitter

Love Inc Mag on Facebook

Love Inc Mag Instagram

Aisle Society    

Show image by Everton Vila

Thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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331- Couples Finance Q&A With Dan Hinz

by Aleisha
written by Aleisha

Becoming a team means getting your sh*t in order when it comes to money which is why I invited financial Coach Dan Hinz from adultingwithmoney.com back to the show to answer your couple finance questions. We cover lots in their episode, money guilt- when one partner is earning more than the other, debt suit, goals post wedding and also when you should unite your finances in a joint account.

Maybe you’re in the process of planning your wedding or maybe you’re already hitched, but at some point you’re going to have to talk about finances. Do you have questions about budgeting your money with your partner? Are you unsure about whether or not a joint account is the right way to go? Today Dan Hinz, MBA and Financial Coach from Adulting with Money, is here to shed some light on the subject and to tell you where the best place is to start.

Listen to episode 331 of Bridechilla

Show Highlights:

  • How to initiate the conversation about mutual finances
  • Why it’s important to have a “team” mentality when it comes to money
  • The one thing you need to financially define as a couple
  • Three types of funds that Dan recommends for every couple wanting to combine their incomes
  • How to deal with feelings of guilt about bringing individual debt into a relationship
  • The most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to debt and finances
  • When is the best time to initiate a joint account as a couple?
  • Where is the best place to start?
  • How to incorporate a wedding budget into the bigger life goals/obligations
  • How budgeting is like roulette, but not in the way you might think

Memorable Quotes:

“A couple needs to have a common language that they start to talk about money in the same ways.”

“Sometimes you’ve just got to practice to get better.”

“The key [when it comes to one partner making more money than the other] is that the one making more doesn’t make it a big deal.”

“Whatever helps the team, helps the team. Whatever hurts the team, hurts the team.”

“Once you get out of the individual mindset and realize you’re a team, those lines of what’s fair and not fair start to disappear.”

“I want anything that helps us, anything that helps the team.”

“All things money related boils down to a monthly number.”

Meet Dan Hinz

Dan Hinz, MBA, is a financial coach who helps engaged couples and newlyweds stop money fights before they start.

A graduate of Iowa State University with a master’s degree in business administration with a focus on finance, he authored the ebook, How to Talk About Money with Your Spouse: The Ultimate Guide, a 20,000+ word guide that teaches couples how to be on the same page with money.

 He has also been the financial coach for two morning radio shows, The Miguel Show with Holly & Mandy and The Chubbs & Mandy Show; both at Island 106 (WILN; Panama City, FL).

Dan has also been an adjunct professor in finance for Florida State University-Panama City and Gulf Coast State College. He lives in Panama City Beach, Florida with his wife.

Episode Resources:

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327- Where to Splurge and Where to Save for Your Wedding

by Leah Weinberg
written by Leah Weinberg

What aspects of your wedding do you place the most value upon when it comes to financial investment?
This episode of The Bridechilla Podcast, I welcome back planner Leah Weinberg from Color Pop Events  to explore how you and your partner can approach the budgeting process of your wedding in a more logical way so that you’re ultimately spending money on what’s important to you and saving money on what matters less. 
Read Leah's very helpful blog below and if you haven't heard Leah's last guest appearance on Bridechilla, and read the blog, (episode 316), I encourage you to do so as it's a real winner. 

Listen to episode 327 of Bridechilla

Before I dive into the details here, I want to let you know what this post is NOT going to be. It’s not going to be your solution to having the wedding of your dreams on a budget. It’s not going to give you clever hacks on how to save money on your wedding in random ways. What it IS going to do is help you and your partner approach the budgeting process of your wedding in a more logical way so that you’re ultimately spending money on what’s important to you and saving money on what matters less.

Every couple has different tastes, different styles, different priorities, so it’s impossible for me to say spend money on “x” but not spend money on “y.” Plus, I have respect and love for every single type of wedding vendor out there, so I can’t make blanket statements about who is and is not critical for a wedding. In short, this is going to be about what matters to YOU.

I recommend that all newly-engaged couples sit down before doing any planning and discuss (a) how much total money they can/want to spend on the wedding, and (b) of the wedding vendors they are going to hire, what’s the most important so that they can prioritize how they are going to spend their money.

Venue – Some couples want to get married at a location that is incredibly unique or that sets a particular tone for their wedding day. Other couples are happy to get married somewhere incredibly low key. It is very easy to spend a large portion of your budget on a venue fee, so figure out your vibe as a couple and narrow down locations based on what fits you best.

Photo by Anna Zajac Weddings

PHOTO BY ANNA ZAJAC WEDDINGS

PHOTOGRAPHY

No matter how you look at it, photography is going to be an important part of your day. As Jamie Wharton from Earnest points out, “Don’t feel guilty spending a big chunk of money on your photographer because they’re the ones who are going to help you remember your wedding after it’s over. Your wedding is only one day of your life, but a quality photographer will allow you to relive that special day for the rest of your life!” Even if you think photos aren’t that important, it is still worth investing in a quality photographer. But I am happy to report that that doesn’t necessarily have to cost you a fortune! In NYC, photographers can start around $2,500 and go up to $10,000+. There are amazing photographers to be found at a lower price point (perhaps they are new to the wedding world or have launched their photography business as a side hustle) and I personally know a lot of mid-range (price-wise) photographers whose work blows a lot of $10,000+ photographers out of the water.

Photo by Pat Furey Photography

PHOTO BY PAT FUREY PHOTOGRAPHY

Videographer 

Quite possibly one of the most frequently asked questions from my couples is whether it’s worth hiring a videographer. It’s a super hard question to answer because, yes, I hired a videographer for my wedding, but my husband and I have probably watched our wedding video twice. Video can tell the story of your wedding day in a way that photos alone can’t, but it can also be a big expense. I feel like this vendor is the one that requires the most discussion amongst couples in terms of how to prioritize them.

Food

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Food is one of those categories that is very personal to the couple. Plenty of people will say, “Oh, don’t spend a lot on food because no one remembers what they eat at weddings,” while others take the opposite side and say how refreshing it would be to finally have tasty food at a wedding. I feel like this one is pretty easy for couples to navigate. Do you consider yourself foodies? If so, then you’re going to want food at your wedding that wows your guests.

Photo by Amy Gray Photography

PHOTO BY AMY GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

Entertainment

No question, you’ve got to have great music at your wedding. Most couples feel pretty strongly about whether they want a band or a DJ and this is an area where splurging (on a band) or saving (with a DJ) are both viable options. When thinking about whether you want a band or a DJ, keep in mind that you’re looking at at least a $10,000 difference to hire a full wedding band. Personally, I’m on Team DJ, but that’s a discussion for another time.   

Photo by Khaki Bedford Photography

PHOTO BY KHAKI BEDFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

Invitations 

I have several close friends who are stationers and I don’t love it when people’s immediate answer to questions about saving money with a wedding is to ditch the fancy invites. If paper isn’t important to you, then that’s a fine option (go the Paperless Post route or order something online from Minted) but if you love design and are really into the aesthetics of your wedding, then custom invites and day-of paper are a great way to bring some flair and fun details to your wedding day. Not to mention that a killer invite can really set the tone for what’s the come.

Photo by Amy Gray Photography

PHOTO BY AMY GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

Flowers

I have so many couples tell me that “they don’t care about flowers,” but what they really mean is they don’t want to spend a lot on flowers. I get it, flowers are expensive, and you can expect to see a whole blog post from me on that topic in the coming weeks. But in the meantime, let’s get real. In some cases, even if you’re “not into flowers,” you’ve still got to have them. In NYC, if you’re having a $50,000+ wedding, you’ve got to have flowers or some other kind of professionally-prepared décor. When you’re throwing a party of a certain caliber, you can’t skate by with no decorations. If you’re having a smaller scale wedding, then by all means, get creative with the décor and skip on the floral centerpieces.

Photo by Falcon Photography

PHOTO BY FALCON PHOTOGRAPHY

When it comes to creating a budget for a wedding, it’s all about first setting your maximum spend and then getting real with your partner about what matters most. Then you can start to put the monetary puzzle pieces together and hit the ground running with your research. And, if the idea of putting together your own budget and researching vendor costs sounds too daunting, you can always hire me to do it for you!

Show image by Amy Gray Photography

Meet Leah Weinberg

Unflappable. Calm under (extreme) pressure. Keeps her cool—with her sense of humor intact.  
 
This is how clients described Color Pop Events founder Leah Weinberg during her former career as a commercial real estate attorney. Today, happy couples have come to rely on that same soothing confidence and rock-solid competence when planning their wedding.
 
Early in her legal career, it became clear to Leah that she was destined to be her own boss. Constantly brainstorming business ideas, it wasn’t until she planned her own wedding in 2012—dubbed the “wedding of the year” by multiple guests—that she knew she'd found her calling.  In 2013, Leah launched Color Pop Events to bring her eye for detail and flawless event execution to couples in and around New York City. 
                     
Leah applies an attorney’s meticulousness to all weddings. She forecasts multiple steps ahead of the game, navigating complexities and steering clear of (or quickly resolving) any problems with limitless energy and resourcefulness.

Whether your wedding is brash and bold or sweet and intimate, Leah turns the overwhelming into the easy with a smile, serenity, and contagious spirit that couples find wonderfully refreshing.
 
Contact her now to see how we can enhance your special day—and make the months leading up to it just as beautiful.  

Be sure to follow Leah on Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

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313- Millennials, Marriage and Money with Shannah Game

by Shannah Compton Game
written by Shannah Compton Game

In the first of regular money based Bridechilla podcast episodes, I welcome the host of Millennial Money podcast Shannah Game. we talk about joining finances, working as a team and dealing with student debt when it comes to planning your wedding and beyond. I am excited to extend this conversation and hopefully help you change your money saving and budgeting game!

Listen episode 313 of Bridechilla

Managing your money as a team

By Shannah Compton Game, CFP®, Millennial Money Expert, Host of Millennial Money Podcast

Managing money as a couple is not for the faint of heart – if you're knee-deep into your relationship you have an inkling of what I'm talking about. The experts all say that the two most controversial and difficult conversation topics with couples are sex and money. I can't help you out on the sex one, but I can help you with the money topic.

Photo by Derek Thomson 

The most challenging aspect I've found both personally, and after working with couples for 12 years as a Certified Financial Planner, is that you're trying to approach a tough topic from an individual viewpoint versus the partnership view. Say what? What I mean is that you both come into the relationship with your thoughts and feelings about money. Often you've never expressed those feelings to anyone, including yourself. Let's face it; you want things your way.

I'm here to tell you that you can find peace and harmony (most of the time) with your partner around money. I've done it myself and helped many others as well. It takes some hard work and commitment, but I promise you it can be gratifying. Here are a few tips to help you move from "my way or the highway" to "we've got the best partnership."

1 – Set a don't ask, don't tell limit: 

Find an amount of money that you're ok with your partner spending and vice versa each month without questions. The amount doesn't matter, but the point is if you're going to spend above that amount, you need to run it by your partner for a thumbs up.

2- Set regular money dates

It’s time to stop avoiding conflict by setting regular calendared money dates with your partner. It can literally be 10-30 minutes, but it’s a time where you regroup and talk about goals, what’s on the horizon, celebrate the financial victories and share any worries. Have these dates at a place you love – park, over happy hour, on a walk, etc.

3- Divide and conquer

When you’re both trying to do the same thing in two different ways your outcome will never be good. Figure out who will handle the finances day in and day out and who will be the metaphoric cheerleader keeping you both pointed in the right direction towards your goals. The partnership is key, so play to each of your strengths.

Photo by Brooke Cagle 

4- Figure out your baseline number

This should be the #1 tip, but I'm saving it for last, so hopefully it sticks. It's critical to know your numbers – meaning, knowing how much it takes to run your household at the bare minimum. I'm not talking dinners out and fancy shopping, but what are the bills you must pay (including groceries because you must eat). Once you get there, you both know what it takes to pay the bills, and you can begin to build a roadmap with any excess funds each month. Want to go on a dream vacation? Great, how much do you need to put away each month to achieve that goal? Want to quit your job and start a business? Great, what will you need to cut back on or minimally make to have the numbers work? Knowing your baseline numbers gives you options for your finances and can keep you both pointed in the same direction.

I'm so passionate about helping couples because I've not had an easy marriage journey. I got divorced in my early 30's and lost almost all of my assets through the divorce. I'm now happily remarried, but through these stages of life, I've learned what it means to be in a real partnership with your partner and how important it is to have the tough conversations around money so you can indeed be on the same page.

If you want to hear more tips and advice, you can find me on my own podcast, Millennial Money, where I dish tips, answer questions and feature stories of other cool people who are trying to figure out this life and money journey.

I’m also a Certified Financial Planner with an MBA and am passionate about helping women entrepreneurs become bold in their life, business and finances. I started my first business when I was 19 in college, Hometown Cinema, and bleed entrepreneur. When I’m not podcasting or helping other amazing women, I’m a Lecturer in Finance at California State University Northridge teaching financial literacy to the next generation of students.

Twitter | Instagram | Podcast

Show image by Sarah Diniz Outeiro

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